What Does a Gastric Sleeve Do?

Gastric Sleeve Surgery, also known as Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG), is one of the most effective weight loss procedures available today. It helps individuals who struggle with obesity achieve significant weight reduction by permanently altering the size of the stomach. But what exactly does a gastric sleeve do, and how does it help with weight loss?

In this guide, we will explore how Gastric Sleeve Surgery works, the mechanisms behind its effectiveness, and the benefits it provides for weight loss and overall health.

At Tour Medical, we work with trusted Health Tourism Authorized clinics in Turkey to organize and coordinate your gastric sleeve journey, ensuring that you receive high-quality care throughout the process. Our partner clinics perform detailed evaluations and provide expert recommendations to help you determine if Gastric Sleeve Surgery is right for you.

How Does Gastric Sleeve Surgery Work?

Gastric Sleeve Surgery involves the removal of a large portion of the stomach—approximately 75-80%—leaving behind a smaller, tube-like structure that resembles a banana. This reduced stomach volume restricts the amount of food that can be consumed, playing a key role in promoting weight loss.

Here’s how the procedure works and the changes it brings about:

1. Reduction of Stomach Size

• Smaller Stomach Capacity: The primary function of gastric sleeve surgery is to reduce the size of the stomach. The smaller stomach can hold only 3-4 ounces of food compared to the original capacity of 1-1.5 liters.
• Restricts Calorie Intake: With a smaller stomach, patients naturally eat smaller portions, reducing overall calorie consumption. This calorie reduction is one of the main reasons for weight loss following the procedure.

2. Hormonal Changes

• Reduced Hunger Hormone (Ghrelin): A key part of the stomach that is removed during gastric sleeve surgery is responsible for producing ghrelin, the hormone that triggers hunger. With lower levels of ghrelin, patients often experience less hunger and fewer cravings, making it easier to stick to a reduced-calorie diet.
• Changes in Appetite Control: The reduction in ghrelin levels not only reduces physical hunger but also affects psychological cravings, helping patients feel full sooner and stay satisfied longer.

3. No Changes to Digestion and Absorption

• Normal Nutrient Absorption: Unlike gastric bypass, gastric sleeve surgery does not alter the digestive system. The stomach still functions normally—food passes through the digestive tract as usual, and nutrient absorption remains intact. However, patients still need to take supplements to prevent deficiencies, especially when following a low-calorie diet.

Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery

The gastric sleeve procedure provides several benefits that go beyond weight loss. Here are the key benefits:

1. Significant Weight Loss

• Expected Weight Loss: Patients typically lose 60-70% of their excess weight within 12-18 months after surgery. The initial rapid weight loss is followed by steady, sustained progress.
• Improved Quality of Life: Weight loss often leads to better mobility, increased energy levels, and an enhanced quality of life.

2. Improvement in Obesity-Related Health Conditions

• Type 2 Diabetes: Many patients experience remission or improved control of blood sugar levels after surgery.
• High Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: The procedure often leads to reduced blood pressure and cholesterol levels, decreasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
• Sleep Apnea: Weight loss following the surgery can improve or resolve obstructive sleep apnea, leading to better sleep quality.

3. Reduced Hunger and Appetite

• Less Craving: Patients report a significant reduction in appetite and fewer cravings, which helps avoid overeating.

4. No Foreign Objects or Digestive Bypass

• No Implants: Unlike gastric banding, no foreign objects are placed inside the body with gastric sleeve surgery.
• Normal Digestion: The digestive tract remains intact, meaning digestion and nutrient absorption occur normally, reducing the risk of complications like dumping syndrome.

How Does Gastric Sleeve Surgery Promote Weight Loss?

Gastric Sleeve Surgery promotes weight loss through a combination of physical and hormonal changes:

1. Restriction of Food Intake

• Smaller Portions: The reduced stomach size limits how much food a person can eat at one time. Patients consume smaller, nutrient-dense meals, and overeating can lead to discomfort or vomiting.

2. Hormonal Influence on Appetite

• Reduced Hunger Signals: The removal of the stomach portion that produces ghrelin leads to fewer hunger signals, making it easier for patients to avoid snacking and overeating.

3. Behavioral and Lifestyle Changes

• Healthy Eating Habits: Gastric sleeve surgery works best when combined with healthy eating and regular exercise. Patients are encouraged to follow a high-protein, low-carb diet and avoid sugary foods.
• Increased Physical Activity: Regular exercise helps boost metabolism and burn calories, further enhancing weight loss after surgery.

FAQs About Gastric Sleeve Surgery

1. What does a gastric sleeve do?

   • Gastric Sleeve Surgery reduces the size of the stomach, limiting food intake and reducing hunger through lower ghrelin levels.

2. How does the gastric sleeve help with weight loss?

   • The surgery restricts food intake and reduces hunger hormones, making it easier to eat less and lose weight.

3. Is the gastric sleeve a permanent procedure?

   • Yes, Gastric Sleeve Surgery is a permanent procedure. Once a large portion of the stomach is removed, it cannot be replaced.

4. How much weight can you lose with a gastric sleeve?

   • Most patients can expect to lose 60-70% of their excess weight within 12-18 months.

5. Will I still feel hungry after gastric sleeve surgery?

   • Most patients experience a reduction in hunger due to lower ghrelin levels, but it’s important to follow dietary guidelines to maintain these effects.

6. How does gastric sleeve surgery affect digestion?

   • The digestive process remains unchanged, but patients eat smaller portions, which reduces calorie intake.

7. Do I need to take supplements after gastric sleeve surgery?

   • Yes, patients typically need to take vitamin and mineral supplements to prevent deficiencies.

8. Can the stomach stretch after gastric sleeve surgery?

   • Yes, the stomach can stretch slightly over time if patients overeat, but it will never return to its original size.

Even if you are not a patient of ours, you can contact us with any questions you may have. Our patient coordinators will be happy to assist you.

Email: info@tourmedical.com