If you’ve struggled to lose weight despite trying diet changes, exercise programs, medications, or behavioral therapy, you may be wondering whether bariatric surgery is the next step. Specifically, you might be wondering whether a gastric sleeve is the better option for you.
It can be a life-changing procedure for the right person, and it’s available here at Bergen Bariatric and Surgical Solutions.
Take a moment as board-certified general surgeon Dr. Mikhail A. Botvinov explains how gastric sleeve surgery works, who it’s for, and what health conditions it can help improve, so you can decide whether it may be right for you.
Gastric sleeve surgery is a type of bariatric surgery that permanently reduces the size of your stomach. During the procedure, about 80% of your stomach is removed. This leaves behind a narrow, banana-shaped sleeve (pouch). You may also hear this referred to as a sleeve gastrectomy.
With a much smaller stomach, you feel full more quickly and eat smaller portions. The surgery also removes the part of your stomach that produces certain appetite-stimulating hormones, which means you may notice a reduced sense of hunger after surgery.
Together, these changes make it easier to eat less and support your long-term weight loss.
Gastric sleeve surgery is often considered when other weight-loss methods haven’t worked. It can be especially helpful if excess weight is affecting your health or quality of life.
Many people pursue gastric sleeve surgery to help manage or prevent conditions such as:
Beyond medical benefits, weight loss after surgery often leads to increased energy, improved mobility, and easier daily activities. Many people report feeling stronger, more confident, and better able to enjoy life.
Gastric sleeve surgery isn’t a shortcut or a replacement for healthy habits, but it can be part of a comprehensive weight-loss program when used alongside long-term lifestyle changes.
You may be a candidate if:
All gastric sleeve candidates must also be:
Bariatric surgery is most effective for people committed to long-term lifestyle changes. A smaller stomach means eating small portions and, in many cases, using nutritional supplements to support ongoing health.
Unlike some other bariatric procedures, gastric sleeve surgery doesn’t involve rerouting the intestines. This makes the process simpler while still delivering effective, long-term weight-loss results.
It also directly affects hunger by reducing ghrelin production. Ghrelin is the hormone that signals hunger, so when its production decreases, many people feel less hungry. This makes the post-op dietary changes more manageable than relying on willpower alone.
Compared with weight-loss medications, gastric sleeve surgery can help you lose up to five times more weight than weight-loss injections alone.
Choosing bariatric surgery is a major decision, and it shouldn’t be made alone. At Bergen Bariatric and Surgical Solutions P.C., Dr. Botvinov and his team take the time to evaluate your health, goals, and concerns to determine whether gastric sleeve surgery is the right fit for you.
You receive guidance and support before surgery, during recovery, and throughout your long-term weight-loss journey.
To learn more or schedule a consultation, call 201-731-6919 or book an appointment online today.
