Gastric Sleeve

Gastric Sleeve Q & A 

What is gastric sleeve surgery?

Gastric sleeve surgery removes most of your stomach (approximately 80%), leaving a banana-shaped tube. This procedure significantly reduces the amount of food you can hold. 

The removed portion of the stomach produces ghrelin (the “hunger hormone”), so eliminating that part of the stomach positively affects your metabolism, enabling you to feel less hungry, feel full faster, and even maintain better blood sugar control. 

Am I a good candidate for gastric sleeve surgery?

Good candidates for gastric sleeve surgery have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher. People with a BMI of 35-39 can also qualify for bariatric surgery if they have at least one weight-related health issue like Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and obstructive sleep apnea.  Recent changes in the qualifications for weight loss surgery have lowered the BMI for diabetics to 30.

Good candidates for gastric sleeve are also ready to change their lifestyle. Dr. Patching and the team strongly emphasize the importance of lifestyle changes so you can have the results you want.

What are the results of gastric sleeve surgery?

People who undergo gastric sleeve surgery can lose as much as 65-75% of their excess weight within a year. You can also experience a significant improvement in (or reversal of) conditions, including Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and high cholesterol.

But, to achieve great results, you need to make long-lasting changes. Dr. Patching and the team guide you in establishing those changes, which include diet, exercise, and taking specially formulated supplements from Thorne® supplements.

Additionally, Dr. Patching and the team offer aesthetic services like Venus Legacy™ cellulite reduction and Vivace® radiofrequency microneedling to help patients love their new bodies even more. 

Should I have gastric sleeve or gastric bypass?

Dr. Patching performs both gastric sleeve and gastric bypass. In gastric bypass, Dr. Patching sections off your stomach instead of removing most of it, then reroutes your small intestine.

Each procedure has its benefits, and one or the other is probably better suited for your unique situation. 

Gastric sleeve is a simpler procedure than gastric bypass, which can be an advantage. However, gastric bypass may help you lose more weight and bring on more significant changes in chronic conditions.   Please refer to the gastric bypass section to see what your hospitalization & recovery experience will be; both the gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy have almost identical recoveries.

Dr. Patching can recommend a procedure based on your specific needs and goals.

Ready to learn more? Call Steven Patching, MD, or book your appointment using online scheduling now.