Sleeve gastrectomy, sometimes referred to as gastric sleeve surgery, is a minimally invasive technique intended to decrease stomach capacity and restrict food consumption. A smaller, sleeve-shaped pouch is created after the surgeon removes a part of the stomach during the surgery. Over time, patients will lose a considerable amount of weight since this helps them feel fuller faster and consume less calories.

Gastric sleeve may be an option for you if you are severely obese and have not been able to shed your pounds through diet and exercise. The procedure, along with lifestyle modifications such as the right proportion of healthy food and exercise, can help improve your overall health and quality of life.

Gastric sleeve works by changing the structure and reducing the size of your stomach. About two-thirds of your stomach is surgically removed during this procedure. At the end of the procedure, patients will have a smaller stomach that fills up quicker, which will limit the quantity of food you eat and the amount of calories absorbed by your body. Gastric sleeve is performed laparoscopically. A laparoscope is a small tube like instrument fitted with a camera on the end. The camera is connected to a video monitor and allows your surgeon to see inside your abdomen to perform the surgery.

Gastric sleeve is an inpatient procedure requiring an overnight hospital stay. The surgery takes about 60 to 90 minutes. Depending on your condition, you may be given a clear liquid diet the day of your surgery. You will be given medications to help alleviate any pain or discomfort. You will be provided with a special diet plan to avoid stretching your stomach.