Insights from Prof. Haldun Uluutku, MD
If you’re considering weight loss surgery, you might be asking yourself, What happens in gastric sleeve surgery?Understanding the procedure step by step can ease concerns and prepare you for this transformative journey. As a bariatric surgeon at Estexper Clinic, I aim to ensure every patient feels informed and confident about their decision.
Step-by-Step Guide to Gastric Sleeve Surgery
1. Preoperative Preparation
Before surgery, you’ll undergo a series of evaluations, including:
- Medical assessments and lab tests to ensure you’re fit for the procedure.
- A pre-surgery diet to shrink your liver, making the operation safer and smoother.
- Consultations with your surgeon, dietitian, and psychologist to address all aspects of your preparation and recovery.
You’ll also be advised to fast for several hours before surgery to ensure optimal conditions for anesthesia and laparoscopic techniques.
2. Entering the Operating Room
On the day of the procedure, you’ll be greeted by the surgical team and prepared for general anesthesia. Once you’re comfortably asleep, the surgery begins.
3. The Surgical Procedure
- Laparoscopic Technique: Gastric sleeve surgery is performed using minimally invasive methods. Small incisions (about 5-10mm each) are made in your abdomen to insert a camera and specialized surgical tools.
- Reshaping the Stomach: The surgeon carefully removes approximately 75-80% of the stomach, leaving behind a narrow, tube-shaped “sleeve.” This smaller stomach significantly reduces your capacity to eat and helps regulate hunger by reducing the production of the hunger hormone, ghrelin.
- Closure: The remaining stomach is stapled and secured. The incisions are then closed with sutures or surgical glue.
The entire surgery typically takes 60 to 90 minutes.
4. Post-Surgery Monitoring
After the procedure, you’ll be taken to a recovery room, where our medical team closely monitors your vitals as you wake up from anesthesia. Pain management and hydration are prioritized to ensure your comfort. Most patients are encouraged to start walking within a few hours, which promotes circulation and speeds up recovery.
Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery
The procedure not only leads to significant weight loss but also helps improve or resolve obesity-related conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.
Addressing Common Concerns
“Is the surgery painful?”
While some discomfort is normal, advanced pain management techniques minimize any pain you may feel post-surgery.
“What are the risks?”
Gastric sleeve surgery is a safe and proven procedure. At Estexper Clinic, we take every precaution to reduce risks and ensure the highest standards of care.
Why Choose Estexper Clinic?
At Estexper Clinic, we guide you through every step of the process, from preparation to postoperative care. Our experienced surgical team uses the latest techniques to ensure safety, comfort, and long-lasting results.
Final Thoughts
Gastric sleeve surgery is a life-changing solution for individuals struggling with obesity. By understanding what happens during the procedure, you can feel more at ease and prepared for the journey ahead.
If you’re ready to take the next step, contact Estexper Clinic today. Let us help you achieve your weight-loss goals and improve your quality of life.
