Sleeve Gastrectomy

The sleeve gastrectomy is a minimally invasive, laparoscopic surgery that removes approximately 80 percent of your stomach to reduce how much you can eat. Additionally, patients with this procedure feel less hungry, helping them to lose weight.

Illustration of a sleeve gastrectomy


How It Works

Our surgeons perform this procedure using minimally invasive and robotic techniques. The procedure is done via small incisions on the abdomen then the surgeon removes the majority of your stomach, crafting a tubular, banana-shaped pouch with the rest. 

In addition to leaving you with a much smaller space for food, the surgery removes the part of the stomach where gut hormones controlling hunger, satiety and blood sugar are created. This is why some research shows sleeve gastrectomy can be as effective as Roux-en-Y bypass surgery for weight loss and improvement or remission of diabetes.

Pros

Having weight loss surgery is a big step, but the benefits of sleeve gastrectomy are life-changing, including:

  • Weight loss, potentially more than you expect
  • Control of diabetes, cholesterol and blood pressure
  • Curbed cravings, especially for sugar or fats
  • Better control of acid reflux/Barrett’s esophagus

Cons

Your surgeon will also discuss with you the cons of sleeve gastrectomy, which can include:

  • Being irreversible as part of your stomach is removed.
  • Tolerance for high-carb, high-fat foods, which can slow weight loss
  • Potential for leaks at the site where your stomach is reduced
  • The need to take vitamin supplements for the rest of your life to replenish what your body will no longer get from food.

Risks

Every type of surgery comes with such risks as:

  • Bleeding at the incision
  • Blood clots
  • Infection
  • Adverse reaction to anesthesia
  • Lung or breathing problems

In addition, risks specific to this surgery include:

  • Gastrointestinal obstruction
  • Hernias
  • Gastroesophageal reflux

Success Stories

“Bariatric surgery has transformed my life in profound ways, reshaping not only my physical appearance but also revitalizing my overall health. My elevated self-confidence empowers me to engage in activities I once shied away from. My energy level has reinvigorated my zest for life, enabling me to savor every moment with new-found enthusiasm.”

Jordan Wissinger
Instructional technology coach and married mother of boys ages 7 and 10

Patient Stories

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Hartford HealthCare Medical & Surgical Weight Loss