SLEEVE GASTRECTOMY

Sleeve Gastrectomy (Gastric Sleeve) for Medical Tourism Website

What is Sleeve Gastrectomy?

Sleeve gastrectomy, also known as gastric sleeve surgery or vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG), is a popular bariatric surgery designed to help patients lose weight by reducing the size of the stomach. During the procedure, approximately 80% of the stomach is surgically removed, leaving a narrow, banana-shaped "sleeve" that holds much less food. Unlike gastric bypass, the intestines are not rerouted in this surgery.

How Does Sleeve Gastrectomy Work?

Restriction: The smaller stomach pouch limits the amount of food you can eat at one time, helping you feel full sooner.
Hormonal Changes: Removing most of the stomach also reduces the production of ghrelin, the "hunger hormone," which helps decrease appetite and supports weight loss.
No Intestinal Bypass: Since the intestines are left intact, nutrient absorption remains largely normal, reducing the risk of nutritional deficiencies compared to gastric bypass.

Benefits of Sleeve Gastrectomy

Less Complex Surgery: Sleeve gastrectomy is less technically complicated than gastric bypass, often resulting in shorter surgery and recovery times.
Effective Weight Loss: Patients typically lose about 60-70% of their excess body weight within 12 to 18 months after surgery.
Lower Risk of Dumping Syndrome: Because the intestines are not rerouted, the risk of dumping syndrome (rapid gastric emptying) is lower than with gastric bypass.
Improvement in Obesity-Related Conditions: Sleeve gastrectomy can improve type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and sleep apnea.

Pre- and Post-Operative Care

Before Surgery:

Comprehensive medical and nutritional evaluation.
Psychological assessment to ensure readiness for lifestyle changes.
Education on diet changes and surgical expectations.
Smoking cessation and medication review.

After Surgery:

Gradual dietary progression from liquids to solids over weeks.
Regular follow-up visits to monitor weight loss and nutritional status.
Commitment to lifelong healthy eating and physical activity.
Vitamin supplementation as recommended by your healthcare provider, though generally less intensive than gastric bypass.

Summary of the Sleeve Gastrectomy Procedure

Performed laparoscopically through small incisions.
Surgeon removes about 80% of the stomach, creating a thin, tubular stomach.
No rerouting of intestines; normal digestion continues.
Hospital stay usually 2-3 days with recovery time about 2-4 weeks.
Irreversible procedure due to permanent removal of stomach portion.

Popular Countries for Sleeve Gastrectomy Medical Tourism

Iran: Skilled surgeons, competitive pricing, and comprehensive care packages.
Turkey: Advanced facilities and experienced bariatric teams.
Mexico: Affordable options close to North America.
India: High-quality care with multidisciplinary support.
Thailand and South Korea: Known for modern technology and patient-centered care.

Who Are the Typical Candidates?

Adults with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or BMI 35-39.9 with obesity-related health problems.
Patients seeking a less complex surgery without intestinal rerouting.
Individuals motivated to commit to lifestyle changes and follow-up care.
Those who want effective weight loss with lower risk of nutritional deficiencies compared to gastric bypass.