When you hear sleeve gastrectomy, a surgical procedure that reduces stomach size to help with weight loss. Also known as gastric sleeve, it's one of the most common bariatric surgery options today. Unlike older procedures that reroute the intestines, this one simply removes about 80% of the stomach, leaving a narrow tube-shaped pouch. That small stomach fills up fast, so you feel full with less food—and your body produces less of the hunger hormone ghrelin. It’s not a magic fix, but for people with severe obesity, it’s often the most effective step forward.
This surgery doesn’t just help with weight. Many patients see big improvements in conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea. In fact, studies show over 60% of people with diabetes go into remission within a year after the procedure. That’s not just losing pounds—it’s changing how your whole body works. But it’s not for everyone. Doctors usually recommend it only if your BMI is 40 or higher, or if it’s 35 and you have serious health problems tied to weight. You also need to be ready to stick with lifelong changes: eating smaller meals, taking vitamins, and staying active. It’s not a quick fix, but it’s a tool that works when you’re prepared to use it.
People often worry about risks. Like any surgery, there are complications—leaks, infections, blood clots. But for healthy patients, the chance of serious problems is low, and most recover well within weeks. What’s more, the long-term success rate is higher than diet and exercise alone. You’ll need follow-up care, regular blood tests, and support. That’s where many programs help: nutrition counseling, mental health check-ins, and group support. The goal isn’t just to lose weight—it’s to keep it off and feel better every day.
Below, you’ll find real, practical guides on what to expect before surgery, how medications interact with your new stomach, why some people regain weight, and how to manage side effects like acid reflux or vitamin deficiencies. These aren’t theory pieces—they’re based on what patients and doctors actually deal with. Whether you’re considering the procedure, just had it, or are helping someone who did, this collection gives you the clear, no-fluff facts you need.
Gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy are the two most common weight loss surgeries. Learn how they differ in weight loss, risks, recovery, and long-term outcomes to make the best choice for your health.