Sleeve Gastrectomy: What It Is, Who It Helps, and What to Expect

When you hear sleeve gastrectomy, a surgical weight loss procedure that removes about 80% of the stomach, leaving a banana-shaped tube. Also known as gastric sleeve, it's one of the most common bariatric surgeries performed today because it’s effective, doesn’t reroute the intestines, and leads to lasting weight loss for many people. Unlike older procedures, it doesn’t involve implants or foreign objects—just removing tissue to change how your body processes food and hunger signals.

This procedure isn’t just about shrinking your stomach. It also cuts down on ghrelin, the hormone that makes you feel hungry. That’s why people often feel full faster and stop craving high-calorie foods. It’s not a quick fix—it’s a tool that works best when paired with lifestyle changes. People who’ve had it report better blood sugar control, lower blood pressure, and fewer joint problems within months. But it’s not for everyone. Most candidates have a BMI over 40, or over 35 with conditions like type 2 diabetes or sleep apnea. Insurance often requires proof you’ve tried other weight loss methods first.

Recovery usually takes a few weeks. You’ll start with liquids, then move to soft foods, and finally to small, nutrient-dense meals. Many patients need lifelong vitamin supplements because the smaller stomach absorbs fewer nutrients. You’ll also see your doctor regularly—not just to check weight, but to monitor for complications like leaks, strictures, or acid reflux. The surgery itself is done laparoscopically, meaning small incisions, less pain, and faster healing than open surgery.

It’s not just about the surgery. The real work starts after. People who stick with follow-ups, support groups, and healthy eating habits lose the most weight and keep it off. Those who don’t adjust their habits often regain weight or face health setbacks. That’s why so many of the posts here focus on medication safety, post-op nutrition, and managing conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure after surgery. You’ll find guides on how to talk to your doctor about supplements, what pain meds are safe after gastric sleeve, and how to avoid complications from common drugs like NSAIDs.

Whether you’re considering this surgery, just had it, or are helping someone who did, the articles below give you real, practical advice—not theory. From how to prepare for your first post-op appointment to what vitamins you actually need, you’ll find clear answers based on clinical experience and patient stories.