The Gastric Sleeve

Introduction

Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is the most commonly performed weight loss procedure in the United States. The surgery removes approximately 80% of the stomach, leaving a narrow, sleeve-shaped pouch about the size of a banana. This significantly reduces hunger hormones and limits food intake while preserving normal digestion. Most patients lose 60–70% of their excess body weight within the first two years after surgery.

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What Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Gastric sleeve surgery permanently removes the outer portion of the stomach through minimally invasive laparoscopic technique. The remaining stomach is shaped like a tube or sleeve. Unlike gastric bypass, the intestines are not rerouted, and the stomach's natural digestive function is preserved. The procedure takes 1–2 hours and requires a short hospital stay of 1–2 nights.

The surgery works through three mechanisms: physical restriction (smaller stomach capacity), hormonal changes (reduced ghrelin, the hunger hormone), and improved metabolic function. Patients feel full faster and experience reduced appetite, making it easier to adopt healthier eating habits.

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Am I a Candidate for Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Most candidates for gastric sleeve surgery meet one of the following criteria:

• BMI of 40 or higher
• BMI of 35 or higher with at least one obesity-related condition such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, or heart disease
• BMI of 30–34.9 with severe diabetes (in select cases)
• Previous unsuccessful attempts at weight loss through diet and exercise

Age, overall health, and commitment to lifelong lifestyle changes are also considered. A consultation with our board-certified bariatric surgeon will determine if gastric sleeve surgery is right for you.

What to Expect: Recovery Timeline

Recovery from gastric sleeve surgery is faster than traditional open surgery thanks to our minimally invasive approach.

• Days 1–2: Hospital stay for monitoring and pain management
• Weeks 1–2: Liquid diet, rest at home, light walking encouraged
• Weeks 2–4: Pureed foods, gradual return to light activities
• Weeks 4–8: Soft foods introduced, return to work for most patients

Month 3+: Regular foods, full activity including exercise

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Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery

• Average 60–70% excess weight loss in the first two years
• Improvement or remission of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea
• No foreign objects (unlike gastric band) or intestinal rerouting (unlike gastric bypass)
• Reduced hunger due to decreased ghrelin production
• Shorter procedure and recovery time compared to gastric bypass
• Lower risk of nutritional deficiencies compared to bypass procedures

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Risks and Considerations

Like all surgery, gastric sleeve carries risks that will be thoroughly discussed during your consultation:

• Bleeding, infection, or blood clots (rare)
• Leakage from the staple line (occurs in less than 2% of cases)
• Acid reflux or heartburn (may worsen in some patients)
• Vitamin and mineral deficiencies requiring lifelong supplementation
• Potential need for revision surgery if complications occur

Our surgical team takes every precaution to minimize these risks. Your safety is our highest priority.

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Does Insurance Cover Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Most major insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover gastric sleeve surgery when it is medically necessary. Coverage typically requires documentation of your BMI, presence of obesity-related health conditions, and previous weight loss attempts. Some plans also require a supervised diet program for 3–6 months before approval. Our patient coordinators will verify your benefits and help navigate the insurance authorization process at no cost to you.

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Why Choose Our Practice?

• Board-certified bariatric surgeon with 15+ years of experience
• Accredited Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence
• Minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic techniques
• Comprehensive pre-operative education and lifelong post-operative support
• Nutrition counseling and support groups included
• Serving Utah patients with compassionate, personalized care