Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery Painful? Insights from Dr. Yahya Özel
One of the most common questions I hear from patients considering gastric sleeve surgery is, “Will it be painful?” As a bariatric surgeon, I completely understand that fear of pain can be a major concern when preparing for any type of surgery. In this article, I’d like to walk you through what to realistically expect regarding pain and recovery, based on my years of experience performing sleeve gastrectomy at Estexper Clinic.
What Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces the size of your stomach by about 80%. It helps patients achieve long-term weight loss by limiting food intake and reducing hunger hormones.
Is the Procedure Itself Painful?
During the surgery, you will be under general anesthesia, meaning you will not feel any pain at all. The procedure is performed laparoscopically, using small incisions, which significantly reduces trauma to the body and speeds up the healing process compared to open surgery.
What About Pain After Surgery?
Post-operative pain is mild to moderate, and most patients describe it more as discomfort or soreness rather than sharp pain. Here’s what you can expect:
First 24–48 Hours: You may feel tightness or pressure in your abdomen. Pain is well managed with medication.
Day 3–5: Most patients begin to feel much better and start moving around more comfortably.
1 Week and Beyond: Pain is minimal, and you’ll likely be back to light daily activities.
At Estexper Clinic, we use enhanced recovery protocols to minimize pain and promote faster healing. This includes pain management, early mobilization, and continuous monitoring by our expert team.
Every Patient’s Experience Is Unique
Pain tolerance varies from person to person. Some patients report almost no pain and recover very quickly, while others may need a few extra days. What’s most important is that you follow the post-op instructions carefully and maintain communication with your surgeon.
My Advice as Your Surgeon
I always tell my patients this: Don’t let fear of pain stop you from taking control of your health. Gastric sleeve surgery is a powerful tool for sustainable weight loss, and any discomfort you feel will be temporary—especially when compared to the long-term health benefits you gain.
Ready to Learn More?
If you’re considering gastric sleeve surgery and have questions about recovery, safety, or results, I’d be happy to help. At Estexper Clinic, our team is here to guide you every step of the way with compassion, expertise, and personalized care.
Contact us today to book a free consultation and find out if gastric sleeve surgery is right for you.
