Gastric Sleeve

The Sleeve Gastrectomy is currently the most popular bariatric surgery in the United States and worldwide.

In the Sleeve Gastrectomy, 85% of the stomach is permanently removed, leaving in place a much smaller stomach that has the shape of a "sleeve" or a small banana.  This allows an individual to feel full with much less food (early satiety), but also suppresses hunger very effectively by significantly reducing the amount in the body of the "hunger hormone" which is produced in the stomach. These mechanisms allow for excellent weight loss. On average, individuals lose about 70% of their excess weight by one year after Gastric Sleeve surgery, an amount that is similar to that after Gastric Bypass surgery.

We perform the sleeve gastrectomy laparoscopically or robotically, which allows for minimal pain and a very quick recovery. We are the first program in the area (and currently the only program) to use the Titan stapler, which is an innovative stapling device that allows us to staple and divide the stomach in one firing. This stapler minimizes variations often associated with the current use of multiple overlapping short-cartridge staple firings, and achieves more consistent and symmetrical sleeve anatomy, setting our patients up for the best possible outcomes.

Sleeve gastrectomy is a faster and simpler surgery to perform than gastric bypass, resulting in overall lower short and long-term complications. Because the intestinal track is not altered or "rerouted", there is a much less chance that vitamin deficiencies would occur as compared to gastric bypass surgery. Dumping syndrome, which consist of a host of unpleasant symptoms patients experience with certain foods after gastric bypass surgery, is significantly less likely with the sleeve.

Finally, the sleeve gastrectomy is very versatile and can technically be done in individuals where other types of procedures would be almost impossible.  In addition, the sleeve can be easily converted to a gastric bypass or a duodenal switch if this were to ever be needed for one reason or another.

What are the main disadvantages of the sleeve gastrectomy?

In addition to being irreversible, the gastric sleeve may induce acid reflux in some patients.  Although this is not a very common side effect, the sleeve gastrectomy may not be the best option for you if you are already suffering from significant heartburn or GERD.

How long will I need to recover from a sleeve gastrectomy?

Most patients can return home the day following surgery, as long as they are able to drink liquids comfortably and stay hydrated.  Patients are encouraged to walk and stay active immediately after surgery and as tolerated.  Depending upon their general health and their job, most patients are ready to go back to work within two weeks after surgery.