Gastric sleeve surgery, or sleeve gastrectomy, is a minimally invasive bariatric procedure that reduces the size of the stomach by approximately 75 to 80 percent. The remaining stomach is reshaped into a narrow, tube-like “sleeve,” which limits food intake and helps patients feel full more quickly.
In addition to physical restriction, the surgery lowers the production of ghrelin, the hormone responsible for hunger, supporting both appetite control and long-term weight loss.
Performed laparoscopically under general anesthesia
A portion of the stomach is removed permanently
The digestive tract remains otherwise unchanged
Surgery typically takes 60–90 minutes
Hospital stays: 1–2 days
Patients usually begin walking the same day and gradually resume normal activity with guidance.
Significant and sustained weight loss
Improvement or resolution of conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea
No foreign devices or intestinal rerouting
Faster recovery and lower risk compared to some other bariatric surgeries
Preserves natural digestion and nutrient absorption
Improves energy, mobility, and quality of life
Most patients lose 60–70% of their excess weight within 12–18 months.
This surgery may be appropriate for individuals who:
Have a BMI of 40 or higher, or 35+ with obesity-related health conditions
Struggle with long-term weight loss despite diet and exercise
Are in good general health and cleared for surgery
Are prepared for lifelong lifestyle and dietary changes
Understand the risks, benefits, and commitment required
Each patient undergoes a full medical and psychological evaluation to determine eligibility.
Before surgery, patients complete a comprehensive preoperative program that may include:
Blood work, imaging, and cardiac clearance
Nutritional and psychological assessments
A pre-op diet to reduce liver size and surgical risk
Smoking cessation and medication adjustments
Education sessions to prepare for life after surgery
This phase is essential to ensure safety, readiness, and long-term success.
The post-surgery diet is structured into phases to protect healing and gradually introduce solid food:
Clear Liquids (Days 1–3): Water, broth, sugar-free gelatin
Full Liquids (Week 1–2): Protein shakes, milk, smooth soups
Pureed Foods (Week 3–4): Blended vegetables, soft proteins
Soft Foods (Week 5–6): Eggs, soft-cooked fish, tender meats
Regular Foods (After 6+ weeks): High-protein, low-sugar, low-fat meals in small portions
Ongoing support from a nutritionist helps patients adopt healthy habits for lifelong success.
Life changes significantly after surgery—but for the better. Patients experience:
Smaller appetite and improved control over food choices
Improved self-esteem and body confidence
Greater energy for physical activity and social engagement
Reduced need for medications
A renewed focus on nutrition, hydration, and mental wellness
Long-term success depends on commitment to healthy routines, including exercise, proper eating, hydration, and emotional self-care.
Life changes significantly after surgery—but for the better. Patients experience:
Smaller appetite and improved control over food choices
Improved self-esteem and body confidence
Greater energy for physical activity and social engagement
Reduced need for medications
A renewed focus on nutrition, hydration, and mental wellness
Long-term success depends on commitment to healthy routines, including exercise, proper eating, hydration, and emotional self-care.
Hospital stays: 1–2 nights
Walking begins the same day; return to work in 2–3 weeks
Strict adherence to the post-op diet
Regular follow-ups for weight monitoring, labs, and vitamin checks
Lifelong vitamin and mineral supplementation
Ongoing support through bariatric teams and support groups
One
Local anesthesia
Immediately
7 days
None
* For informational purposes only, be sure to consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Most patients lose 60 to 70% of excess weight in the first 12 to 18 months, depending on adherence to lifestyle changes.
No. The removed portion of the stomach cannot be restored, but it may be revised to another bariatric procedure if needed.
Hunger is significantly reduced due to the removal of the stomach area that produces ghrelin. Some hunger may return over time based on habits and hormonal changes.
Yes, but it's advised to wait 12 to 18 months post-surgery to stabilize weight and nutritional levels for a healthy pregnancy.
As with any surgery, risks include bleeding, infection, leakage, or acid reflux. However, complication rates are low when performed by experienced bariatric surgeons.
Yes. Patients must take daily vitamins including B12, iron, calcium, and vitamin D to prevent deficiencies.
Most patients stay 1 to 2 nights for monitoring and initial recovery. Some may be discharged the next day if there are no complications.
Mild to moderate discomfort is normal in the first few days, but pain is well controlled with medications. Most patients report that recovery is easier than expected.
Some muscle loss is natural with rapid weight reduction. To minimize this, patients are advised to maintain protein intake and begin light exercise early, progressing to strength training as tolerated.
Overeating may cause discomfort, vomiting, or stretching of the sleeve over time. It’s important to eat slowly, stop when full, and follow the dietary guidelines closely.
Yes. Many patients experience complete remission or significant improvement in type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and other metabolic conditions shortly after surgery.
It depends on factors like age, genetics, amount of weight lost, and skin elasticity. Some patients consider body contouring or skin tightening procedures after major weight loss.
Light walking is encouraged within 24 hours. Most patients begin low-impact activities within 2–4 weeks and gradually resume normal exercise routines as advised.
Yes, but only slightly. Long-term weight maintenance depends on portion control, avoiding liquid calories, and following long-term habits, not just the size of the stomach.
Emotional changes are common. Support from a psychologist, counselor, or bariatric support group is highly recommended to manage lifestyle changes, stress, and body image adjustments.
Patients attend regular check-ups for weight tracking, lab tests, and nutritional assessments. Follow-up may continue for 12–24 months or longer, depending on clinic protocol.
Medipol University Hospital, being the justifiably proud of Medipol Education and Health Group in Turkey and in the world, resulting in this spirit, is a health complex having JCI standards accepting patients from all over the world.
TEM Avrupa otoyolu göztepe çıkışı no:1, 34214 Bağcılar/İstanbul
Copyright © 2025 All Rights Reserved.