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Sleeve Gastrectomy (Bariatric Stomach Reduction Surgery)

Minimally invasive weight-loss surgery removing 75-80 percent of the stomach to treat severe obesity

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Genel Cerrahi department. Book Appointment →

What is Sleeve Gastrectomy (Bariatric Stomach Reduction Surgery)?

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) involves vertical resection along the greater curvature, removing the gastric fundus where ghrelin (hunger hormone) is produced.

A 32-40 French bougie is used as a sizing template along the lesser curvature.

The procedure is performed via 5-6 small ports under general anesthesia.

It is restrictive (smaller stomach capacity) and metabolic (hormone-mediated) but does not bypass intestines.

Operative time is typically 60-90 minutes; hospital stay 1-2 days.

Average expected excess weight loss is 60-70 percent at 1-2 years.

Symptoms

Indications: BMI ≥ 40 kg/m² or BMI ≥ 35 with obesity-related comorbidities (type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea).
Type 2 diabetes mellitus, especially when uncontrolled with medical therapy.
Obesity-related cardiovascular disease, dyslipidemia, NAFLD/NASH.
Obstructive sleep apnea, obesity hypoventilation syndrome.
Symptomatic GERD is a relative contraindication and may worsen post-LSG.
Postoperative concerns: nutritional deficiencies, vomiting if overeating, possible new-onset reflux.

Risk Factors

Severe obesity refractory to lifestyle and medical management for at least 6-12 months.
Failed nonsurgical weight loss attempts.
Adolescent obesity (per IFSO and ASMBS guidelines for selected cases ≥ 13 years).
Family history of obesity-related disease.
Polycystic ovary syndrome and infertility associated with obesity.
Risk factors for staple line leak: smoking, poorly controlled diabetes, immunosuppression.

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Persistent obesity with BMI above bariatric thresholds despite supervised weight loss programs.
  • Worsening obesity-related conditions (uncontrolled diabetes, severe sleep apnea, joint disease).
  • Quality of life severely impacted by obesity (mobility, mental health).
  • Postoperative concerning symptoms: persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, signs of leak (tachycardia, fever, left shoulder pain).
  • New or worsening reflux symptoms post-LSG (may require conversion to gastric bypass).

Treatment Methods

01
Multidisciplinary preoperative evaluation: bariatric surgeon, endocrinologist, dietitian, psychologist.
02
Preoperative liver-shrinking diet (low-calorie, low-carbohydrate) for 2-4 weeks.
03
Laparoscopic vertical gastric resection with 60mm linear staplers, oversewing or buttressing the staple line for hemostasis.
04
Methylene blue or air leak test intraoperatively.
05
Postoperative diet progression: clear liquids → full liquids → pureed → soft → regular over 4-6 weeks.
06
Lifelong vitamin and mineral supplementation: multivitamin, B12, vitamin D, calcium, iron.
07
Long-term follow-up with bariatric team for nutrition, psychological support, and weight regain prevention.
08
Conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass if intractable reflux or inadequate weight loss.

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Genel Cerrahi department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.