Reducing Food Intake and Feeling of Hunger

With gastric sleeve surgery, there is no interference with the normal absorption of food. The operation works by reducing food intake and the feeling of hunger. The result is an early sense of fullness, followed by a sense of being satisfied. Even though the portion size is small, there is no sense of hunger or feeling of being deprived. Patients continue to enjoy eating, but they enjoy eating a lot less.

How Gastric Sleeve Procedure Works

During the gastric sleeve procedure, the surgeon creates a small, sleeve-shaped stomach which is 15% of its original size. It is slightly larger than the stomach pouch created during the Roux en Y gastric bypass and is about the size of a banana. Having the smaller stomach portion causes you to feel full sooner and to eat less food.

The gastric sleeve surgery can be done using an open approach. The procedure is completed using a telescope with instruments placed through five or six small (1/4-1/2 inch) abdominal incisions. The open procedure involves an incision extending from below the breastbone to the belly button. Your surgeon may decide the open approach is safer for you and will discuss this with you; however, most patients can have the minimally invasive approach.

Gastric Sleeve Procedure, Bariatric Surgery Illustration

Gastric Sleeve Procedure Follow-Up Care Timeline

The gastric sleeve post-surgery care follows the same timeline as the gastric bypass follow-up care.

Virtual Visits Are Available

Safe and convenient virtual visits by video let you get the care you need via a mobile device, tablet or computer wherever you are. We'll assess your condition and develop a treatment plan right away. To schedule a virtual visit, call 414-777-7700.

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