The laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (or gastric sleeve surgery) procedure is an innovative, newer procedure used in weight loss surgeries. The gastric sleeve procedure became an approved bariatric procedure by the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery in 2009, and most studies show an average of 50-55% of the excess weight still off 9 years following surgery.
At Atlanta Bariatrics, our board-certified surgeons specialize in gastric sleeves for weight loss, typically performed as an outpatient procedure so most patients can go home same-day. We provide comprehensive care to help patients make the lifestyle changes needed to sustain long-term weight loss results. Our team of bariatric physicians and support staff provide the education and tools to help you through your weight loss journey.
If you’re ready to feel happier and healthier with the top weight loss surgery specialists in Atlanta, schedule your first consultation with us today. We can’t wait to help you take the first step!
Gastric sleeve surgery is primarily a restrictive procedure that involves removing approximately 80-85% of the stomach, leaving just a “sleeve” of stomach remaining. The portion of the stomach that is removed is responsible for the production of ghrelin, a hormone thought to be one of the factors leading to hunger. Studies show that ghrelin levels in patients undergoing a sleeve gastrectomy are significantly lower and their hunger is less after this procedure than with other surgeries.
Removing the portion of the stomach that produces ghrelin will significantly limit the amount of food that can be eaten at a time and will therefore decrease the number of calories that can be consumed. Hunger is caused by many factors, but there is hope this will lead to better long-term compliance and sustained weight loss.
There is no “re-rerouting” of the intestine in a gastric sleeve procedure, and therefore no malabsorption. Vitamins and minerals are all absorbed normally, so the risk of deficiencies is decreased.
Additionally, sleeve gastrectomy is a minimally-invasive procedure, allowing for less pain and a shorter recovery time after surgery.
The surgery typically takes around one to two hours to complete, but surgery time can vary depending on the patient's specific medical needs.
Sleeve gastrectomy has been shown to help patients lose significant amounts of weight and improve obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea. The surgery is also minimally invasive, which means less pain and a shorter recovery time.
Throughout this journey, our registered dietitians will accompany you, offering advice and assistance. They will aid you in creating personalized meal plans and addressing any concerns you might have regarding post-surgery nutrition. Our team is committed to helping you achieve success!
Since patients do take in significantly less food, we recommend they take a bariatric multivitamin daily and additional calcium may be needed depending on dietary intake.
We also recommend sublingual (under the tongue) Vitamin B12, as the stomach that is removed does make a protein called intrinsic factor needed for absorption of this vitamin.
At Atlanta Bariatrics, we want it to be as easy as possible to get started on your journey toward meeting your weight loss goals. Request your initial consultation today. Our office staff will work with you to make sure you get the care and support that you need.