Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is the most commonly performed method in obesity surgery. In this operation, approximately 80% of the stomach is removed using a closed technique. The remaining stomach is narrow and long, shaped like a banana. This anatomical change promotes weight loss and improvement of obesity-related health problems through several key mechanisms:

• Reduction of Stomach Volume: When the stomach volume decreases, the patient feels full with less food. This leads to reduced calorie intake.
• Decrease in Hunger Hormone (Ghrelin) Levels: When the fundus part of the stomach is removed, ghrelin hormone decreases. This significantly reduces the feeling of hunger. The patient can better control the desire to eat.
• Acceleration of Gastric Emptying: The gastric sleeve allows food to pass more quickly into the small intestine. This can help transmit satiety signals earlier.
• Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: At A Life Health Group, gastric sleeve surgeries are performed using a minimally invasive method. This method is called laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. In this procedure, special cameras and surgical instruments are used through a few small incisions (0.5–1 cm) in the abdominal area.

Laparoscopic surgery has several advantages:

• Less pain
• Smaller scars
• Shorter hospital stay
• Faster recovery

The question “How is gastric sleeve surgery performed?” is one that many patients wonder about before making this important decision. Our specialists explain this surgical procedure, which affects your quality of life and digestive system. Here is the step-by-step process:

At A Life Health Group, this procedure includes the following stages:

• Anesthesia: Before the operation, the patient is evaluated by an anesthesiologist and put under general anesthesia.
• Incisions: The surgeon usually makes 4–5 small incisions in the abdominal area. Through these incisions, a laparoscope and special surgical instruments are inserted into the abdominal cavity.
• Preparation of the Stomach: The abdominal cavity is inflated with carbon dioxide gas to provide a better working space for the surgeon. The portion of the stomach to be removed is separated using special stapler devices. During this process, the stomach is cut vertically to create a tube-shaped structure.
• Removal of the Stomach Portion: The separated part of the stomach is usually taken out of the body by slightly enlarging one of the incisions.
• Checking the Suture Line: The newly formed stomach line is carefully checked to minimize the risk of leakage. If necessary, additional stitches or supportive materials may be used.
• Closing the Incisions: At the end of the procedure, the instruments are removed, and the skin incisions are closed with sutures or special medical tapes.

The answer to the question “How long does gastric sleeve surgery take?” is generally between 1 and 2 hours. However, this duration may vary depending on the patient’s anatomy and the complexity of the operation.

The gastric sleeve surgery weight limit and requirements for gastric sleeve surgery are determined in accordance with international obesity surgery guidelines and the evaluations of the specialist physicians at A Life Health Group. The generally accepted criteria are as follows:

• Body Mass Index (BMI): Morbidly obese patients with a BMI ≥ 40 kg/m².
• Age: Typically, patients between 18 and 65 years old are accepted. However, in certain cases, younger or older patients may also be considered.
• Previous Weight Loss Attempts: The patient should have previously attempted to lose weight through diet, exercise, or medication.
• Psychological Evaluation: It is important for the patient to understand the risks, benefits, and necessary lifestyle changes after the surgery.
• General Health Condition: The patient must be in a general state of health that allows them to tolerate anesthesia and surgery. Severe health problems may pose a contraindication for the procedure.

The answer to the question “At what weight is gastric sleeve surgery performed?” is related to these BMI values and accompanying health conditions. Although there is no specific weight limit, patients who meet the above-mentioned BMI criteria and other requirements are evaluated for surgery.

Life after gastric sleeve surgery is critically important for successful weight loss and long-term health. At A Life Health Group, we support our patients who are suitable for obesity surgery with a multidisciplinary approach throughout this process.

Postoperative Nutrition:
Nutritional habits progress gradually according to a special program:

• First Weeks (Liquid Phase): During the first few days after surgery, only clear liquids (water, herbal teas, sugar-free compotes, etc.) are consumed. Then, protein-supplemented liquids and thin purees are added to the diet.
• About one month after gastric sleeve surgery, the diet changes. At this stage, soft-textured foods should be consumed. Pureed or finely chopped solid foods are preferred. Portion control and eating slowly are important during this period.
• Long-Term Nutrition: In the following months and years, a healthy and balanced diet should be adopted. A protein-based diet is essential. Adequate fluid intake is also required. The use of vitamin and mineral supplements is beneficial.

Restrictions After Gastric Sleeve Surgery:
Certain restrictions are necessary to protect the new stomach structure. These are designed to improve nutrient absorption and reduce the risk of complications. They generally include:

• Carbonated beverages
• Foods high in sugar and processed products
• Excessively fatty and fried foods
• High-fiber or hard-to-chew foods (in the first months)
• Alcohol
• Smoking

Weight Loss Rate After Gastric Sleeve Surgery:
Although it varies from person to person, weight loss is usually faster in the first few months. Patients typically lose a significant portion of their excess weight within the first 6–12 months. The rate of weight loss slows down over time, and reaching the ideal weight may take 1–2 years. Patients who have undergone gastric sleeve surgery should have regular follow-ups with their doctor and dietitian during this period.

10 Years After Gastric Sleeve Surgery:
Long-term studies show that most patients maintain their weight loss. In addition, permanent improvements have been achieved in health problems related to obesity. However, this success depends on the patient’s adherence to postoperative lifestyle changes and regular medical follow-up.

As with any surgical procedure, there are certain risks associated with gastric sleeve surgery. However, at A Life Health Group, our experienced surgical team aims to minimize these risks by strictly adhering to established protocols. Possible risks include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Gastric leak (leakage from the stapler line)
• Thromboembolism (formation of blood clots)
• Nutritional deficiencies (vitamin and mineral insufficiencies)
• Reflux (backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus)
• Stricture (narrowing at the stomach outlet)
• Gallstone formation (due to rapid weight loss)
• Psychological issues (adaptation difficulties)

The complications of gastric sleeve surgery can generally be reduced through proper patient selection, appropriate surgical technique, and careful postoperative follow-up. The mortality risk of gastric sleeve surgery is quite low in modern surgical centers with experienced teams, typically between 0.1% and 0.3%.

The cost of gastric sleeve surgery depends on several factors, including the patient’s health condition, the chosen hospital, the surgeon’s experience, and postoperative care. Regarding the SGK gastric sleeve surgery cost, patients who meet certain criteria may benefit from the support of the Social Security Institution (SGK).

A Life Health Group is among the hospitals contracted with SGK for gastric sleeve surgery. For questions such as “How much does gastric sleeve surgery cost?” or “What is the price of stomach sleeve surgery?”, you can contact us for detailed information and learn about personalized pricing options.

At A Life Health Group, we provide modern medical infrastructure for patients in need of gastric sleeve surgery in Ankara. With our experienced obesity surgery specialists and multidisciplinary team, we offer healthcare services at the highest standards. We are a trusted address for those who wish to take a step toward a healthier and lighter life in Ankara.

Take a step toward a healthy future with A Life Health Group. Contact us to learn more about gastric sleeve surgery. We will create a personalized treatment plan for you and arrange an appointment. Our expert team will be happy to answer all your questions and provide you with the best possible care.