Gastric Sleeve Surgery: Process and Expectations

Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is a highly effective method for treating obesity. This surgery involves removing a large portion of the stomach and reducing it to a tube shape. In recent years, it has become one of the most preferred methods in bariatric surgery. At our clinic, it is safely performed laparoscopically by our experienced surgeons.

Eligibility assessment for surgery is a comprehensive process. You may be a candidate for this surgery if your body mass index is over 40 or over 35 with obesity-related health problems. Diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea are important factors affecting the surgery decision. Pre-operative psychological evaluation is also an important part of the process.

The pre-operative preparation process is critically important for successful results. You need to start a special diet program 2-3 weeks before surgery. This diet helps shrink the liver, making the surgery easier. If you smoke, you must quit at least 4 weeks before. If you use blood thinners, adjustments will be made according to your doctor's recommendation.

On the day of surgery, you need to come to the hospital fasting. Final checks are made before surgery and a meeting with the anesthesia team takes place. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia using the laparoscopic method. The stomach is reduced through 4-5 small incisions in the abdominal area using special instruments. Surgery duration varies between 1-2 hours in average. Thanks to the closed surgical method, the recovery process is faster.

During surgery, approximately 80 percent of the stomach is removed, leaving a banana-shaped tube. This new stomach structure both allows less food intake and reduces the secretion of hormones that cause hunger. The production of the hunger hormone known as ghrelin is significantly reduced. This situation facilitates the weight loss process.

Post-operative hospital stay is usually 2-3 days. On the first day, you are only allowed to drink water, and on the second day, you transition to liquid foods. Necessary medications are given for pain control and early mobilization is encouraged. Starting to walk in the first hours after surgery accelerates the healing process and reduces the risk of complications.

After discharge, paying attention to your nutrition program is vitally important. For the first 2 weeks, only liquid foods are consumed, for the next 2 weeks, pureed foods. Transition to soft foods begins from the fourth week. The transition to normal eating takes approximately 2-3 months. During this process, our dietitian prepares a special nutrition plan for you and follows up regularly.

Protein intake is one of the most important issues in the post-operative period. You need to consume at least 60-80 grams of protein daily. Protein powder supplements can be used to meet this need. Vitamin and mineral supplements must also be taken regularly for life. B12 vitamin, iron, calcium, and vitamin D supplements must be used.

The weight loss process begins immediately after surgery. The fastest weight loss occurs in the first 6 months. On average, you can lose 60-70 percent of your excess weight in the first year. However, this process must be supported by regular exercise and healthy eating habits. Surgery is a tool, real success comes with lifestyle change.