Sleeve Gastrectomy

Sleeve gastrectomy is a transformative bariatric surgery that reduces the size of the stomach, limiting the amount of food you can eat, and affecting the hunger-regulating hormones. This procedure is not just about losing weight—it's about gaining health, energy, and a new outlook on life.

What is a Sleeve Gastrectomy?

A sleeve gastrectomy reduces stomach size by about 80%. This operation involves removing a portion of the stomach and leaving a narrow tube or "sleeve" that limits the amount of food consumed. The procedure restricts food intake and affects the gut hormones that trigger hunger and the sensation of fullness, leading to significant and sustainable weight loss. This surgery is typically performed laparoscopically and is minimally invasive, promoting quicker recovery and a more comfortable post-operative experience than other weight loss surgeries.

Benefits of a Sleeve Gastrectomy

A sleeve gastrectomy is a groundbreaking surgery that offers an array of important benefits:

Significant Weight Loss: Patients typically lose 50% to 70% of their excess body weight within the first year after surgery.
Reduced Appetite: By removing a portion of the stomach, the surgery decreases the production of hunger-inducing hormones, helping to curb appetite.
Improved Health Conditions: Sleeve gastrectomy can lead to the improvement or resolution of obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and joint pain.
Minimally Invasive: The procedure is usually performed using laparoscopic techniques, which involve smaller incisions, less pain, and quicker recovery times.
Enhanced Longevity: Weight loss achieved through sleeve gastrectomy can lead to a longer life by reducing the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and sleep apnea.
Psychological Benefits: Significant weight loss can improve mental health issues related to obesity, such as depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem.
Lifestyle Flexibility: Unlike other bariatric procedures, there is no foreign body implanted and no need for adjustments post-surgery, making it a simpler, lifelong solution.

How Much Weight Can You Lose with a Sleeve Gastrectomy?

A sleeve gastrectomy can help you achieve significant weight loss, typically about 50% to 70% of excess body weight in the first year. The amount of weight you lose depends on several factors, including your pre-surgery weight, diet, physical activity, and exercise. Adhering to the recommended lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, brings the most profound and lasting results.

The Procedure: Sleeve Gastrectomy

About 80% of the stomach is removed during sleeve gastrectomy, leaving a narrow gastric "tube" or "sleeve." The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, typically taking one to two hours to complete. It is usually performed laparoscopically, involving small incisions, a tiny camera, and specialized instruments. This minimally invasive approach reduces pain, has fewer complications, a quicker recovery, and minimal scarring, and is a preferred method for effective and safe surgical weight loss. It requires a hospital stay of one to two days, after which you can return home to rest and heal.

What Is the Recovery After Sleeve Gastrectomy?

Recovery after a sleeve gastrectomy varies for each patient, but typically, you can expect to spend one to two days in the hospital post-surgery to ensure a smooth recovery. Most patients return to normal activities within two to four weeks, with a full recovery at about six weeks. During this period, you will transition from a liquid diet to solid foods under the guidance of our nutritional experts. We offer comprehensive support throughout your journey, with regular follow-up appointments, for a smooth and successful recovery. Long-term success post-sleeve gastrectomy depends on your commitment to lifestyle changes and follow-up care. Surgical Associates offers support group meetings and continuous access to our team to help you stay on track. Regular check-ups and lab work are also part of our commitment to your ongoing health and success.

Why Choose Surgical Associates for a Sleeve Gastrectomy?

At Surgical Associates, being independently owned allows us to put our patients first. Our surgeons, who own the practice, focus on efficient, cost-effective care. This autonomy prevents unnecessary expenses, making our state-of-the-art surgical services more affordable.

Our commitment to excellence transcends the technical aspects of surgery. From your first greeting at our reception to our talented surgeons' personalized care and attention, we treat every patient like family. This warm, inclusive approach is part of a positive journey with us—from the initial consultation to our focus on ensuring you have a fast and uneventful recovery. At Surgical Associates, you're not just a patient but part of our community.

The Surgical Associates Difference

As Wisconsin's largest independent general and vascular surgical group, headquartered in Wausau with multiple locations across the region, Surgical Associates boasts a team of 17 specialty surgeons. Our extensive network allows us to provide comprehensive care, performing cutting-edge vascular procedures at our advanced Office-Based Laboratory (OBL) and in top-tier facilities such as Aspirus Wausau Hospital and Pine Ridge Surgery Center. This breadth of expertise and resources allows us to deliver a superior level of care right in your neighborhood.

A Healthier, Happier Life Ahead

Sleeve gastrectomy at Surgical Associates is more than just a procedure—it's a pathway to a new, healthier you. With our experienced team, state-of-the-art facilities, and supportive care, you have everything you need to succeed in your weight loss journey. Join us and start your transformation today.