Sleeve Gastrectomy

Sleeve Gastrectomy

The sleeve gastrectomy helps reduce the size of the stomach quite significantly. About 75-80% of the stomach, mainly along the greater curvature (the outer left-sided bulge just beneath the left rib cage), is removed. What remains is a narrow tube, roughly 60-100 ml in capacity.

Patients often visualize it when doctors suggest: imagine your stomach going from a large pouch to something like a long, curved sleeve. It is not a bypass. Food still follows the natural route, from oesophagus to stomach to intestine, just in a much smaller volume.

Eligibility is not just about weight, although BMI gives us a starting point. In practice:

  • BMI >35, even without other illnesses, is often considered
  • BMI >32 with diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnoea, these patients tend to benefit earlier

But numbers alone don’t decide surgery. Medical experts spend time assessing eating patterns. Some patients are “volume eaters,” who often have large meals and late dinners. Others struggle more with frequent snacking. Sleeve works better in certain patterns than others.

Equally important is the psychological readiness. It is essential that patients are ready to lead this revised lifestyle. Nutritional evaluation matters too. Any pre-existing nutritional deficiencies must be corrected and monitored in the future.

Compared to gastric bypass:

  • Technically simpler
  • No intestinal rerouting
  • Lower risk of severe malabsorption

That said, bypass may still be preferred in patients with severe reflux or long-standing uncontrolled diabetes. Sleeve is often chosen for its balance; it restricts intake, preserves anatomy, and avoids dumping syndrome in most cases.

Consult our experts at UMC Hospitals to understand details about sleeve gastrectomy in Navi Mumbai.

Health Benefits of Sleeve Gastrectomy

  • Weight loss of about 60-70% of excess body weight is commonly seen over 12-18 months.
  • Health conditions such as diabetes, blood pressure, and joint pain are in better control.
  • Patients look and feel physically fit, improving their mental health.

Weight regain can happen, particularly after 2-3 years, if eating patterns gradually stretch the sleeve. Surgery helps, but it does not replace discipline.

Life after a Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery

The first few weeks are structured carefully:

  • Liquid diet -> semi-solid -> soft -> regular (over ~4-6 weeks)
  • Portion sizes remain small, initially just 2-3 tablespoons per meal

Protein intake becomes a priority. Many Indian patients struggle here, and our team helps them with meal planning assistance. Vitamin supplementation is not optional. B12, calcium, and iron need long-term monitoring. Follow-ups are scheduled, typically at 6 weeks, then monthly for 6 months, then yearly. In reality, patients who stay connected tend to do better.

At UMC Hospitals, the best hospital for sleeve gastrectomy in Navi Mumbai, we are committed to providing long-term care. Our team does not rush patients into making crucial decisions. Weight loss experts at our hospital conduct multiple detailed consultations that include medical, nutritional, and sometimes psychological evaluations before going ahead with a sleeve gastrectomy. Family involvement is also encouraged. Surgery itself typically involves a 2-3 day hospital stay. Early walking starts within 12-18 hours. Discharge happens once oral intake is comfortable and vitals are stable. Trained experts at our Department of Bariatric Surgery are available for support and guidance during the surgery and after discharge.