First performed in 1999 by Dr. Michel Gagner, the laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy has become the world's most prevalent weight loss procedure. In the past decade, 27,000 individuals in WA have undergone this surgery, with 80% being women. Typically, it's performed on individuals aged 35 to 39, with a low complication rate of 1.3% within 90 days.
We recommend having an open and honest discussion with your New Me surgeon to determine if a sleeve gastrectomy is the best choice for you based on your circumstances and goals.
Gastric sleeve surgery involves removing a portion of the stomach to reduce its size, while gastric bypass reroutes the digestive tract. Gastric sleeve surgery does not involve rerouting the digestive system like gastric bypass.
During gastric sleeve surgery, about 80% of the stomach is removed, leaving a smaller, sleeve-shaped stomach. This reduces the amount of food consumed, leading to weight loss. Additionally, the portion of the stomach that produces the hunger hormone ghrelin is removed, reducing appetite.
Before undergoing gastric sleeve surgery, patients typically undergo several pre-operative evaluations and tests. These include a medical history, physical examination, blood tests, imaging tests such as DEXA Composition Scans, ultrasound or CT scans (if necessary) and consultations with our dietitian.
Risks and complications associated with gastric sleeve surgery include bleeding, infection, leaks along the staple line, blood clots, and adverse reactions to Anaesthesia. There's also a risk of long-term complications such as vitamin deficiencies and gastrointestinal issues. This is a short list. A comprehensive list of risks is discussed when you have your appointment.
Recovery from gastric sleeve surgery typically takes a few weeks to months. Patients usually stay in the hospital for 1-2 days after surgery and can return to work and normal activities within 2-4 weeks, although full recovery may take longer. You can drive after 1 week.
After gastric sleeve surgery, patients need to follow a specific dietary plan. This often involves consuming small, frequent meals high in protein and low in carbohydrates and fats. Patients are advised to avoid sugary and high-calorie foods and beverages.
Yes, patients will need to take supplements after gastric sleeve surgery to prevent nutrient deficiencies. Common supplements include multivitamins, calcium, vitamin D, iron, and vitamin B12.
Weight loss after gastric sleeve surgery varies depending on individual factors such as starting weight, adherence to dietary and lifestyle changes, and exercise habits. On average, patients can expect to lose around 70% of their excess weight ( 31% of total body weight) within the first year after surgery.
Long-term effects of gastric sleeve surgery include sustained weight loss, improvement or resolution of obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, and improved quality of life. However, patients need to adhere to dietary and lifestyle changes to maintain weight loss and prevent complications.
You may be a suitable candidate for gastric sleeve surgery if you have a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or higher, or a BMI of 30-34.9 with obesity-related health conditions. Candidates should also have attempted other weight loss methods without success and be committed to making lifelong dietary and lifestyle changes. A thorough medical evaluation by New Me Surgery is necessary to determine eligibility for surgery. Many patients feel that having gastric sleeve surgery "gave them their life back."