Sleeve Gastrectomy

Various surgical methods aimed at reducing the volume of the stomach are applied to provide weight control and offer an effective solution in the fight against obesity. These operations are planned with different techniques according to the person's health status, body mass index, and comorbid diseases. The procedures performed do not only support weight loss; they also aim to alleviate many health problems developing due to excess weight, such as high blood pressure, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes. Thanks to these types of surgeries, the quality of life increases, and the progression of obesity-related complications is prevented.

Sleeve gastrectomy is one of the most commonly preferred methods in the field of obesity surgery. In this procedure, the goal is to limit the person's food intake capacity by reducing the stomach volume and to ensure a feeling of satiety with less food. At the same time, the removal of a specific part of the stomach creates a decrease in the secretion of appetite hormones, significantly reducing the feeling of hunger. Thus, the person both eats less and stays full for a long time.

What is Sleeve Gastrectomy (Tube Stomach Surgery) Needed For?

Sleeve gastrectomy is based on the principle of permanently removing a large part of the stomach and leaving the remaining stomach in the form of a long, thin tube. Most of the digestive organs in the human body are in tube form; the esophagus and intestines are examples of this structure. However, the stomach is a sac-like organ that can expand and store food. In sleeve gastrectomy surgery, this sac-shaped part of the stomach is surgically removed to reduce volume, turning the digestive system into a narrower channel.

No foreign objects or tubes are placed into the stomach in this procedure. Since the stomach turns into a long and thin structure in terms of shape after the surgery, the term "sleeve gastrectomy" (tube stomach) is used. The most important effect of the operation is not only the shrinkage of the stomach; at the same time, since the region where the hunger hormone is secreted is removed, the person feels less hungry. Thus, the weight loss process is supported by both mechanical and hormonal effects.

In Which Situations is Sleeve Gastrectomy (Tube Stomach Surgery) Preferred?

Sleeve gastrectomy is not just an aesthetic intervention; it is also a treatment method applied to prevent serious health problems developing due to excess weight. This surgical procedure is generally recommended for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) over 40, i.e., those with advanced obesity. However, in some patients, even if the BMI is over 35, this surgery becomes a suitable option if comorbid diseases such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, or joint disorders accompany it.

Additionally, sleeve gastrectomy offers an effective solution for people who cannot achieve permanent weight loss despite various diet programs, exercise applications, and medical treatments. This method both supports the metabolic order and helps the patient change their lifestyle in a sustainable way.

In some cases, obesity-related conditions such as insulin resistance, fatty liver disease, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may also be among the reasons for performing this surgery. Significant improvements in the symptoms of these diseases are observed thanks to the excess weight loss following the operation.

Consequently, sleeve gastrectomy is an important surgical option preferred not only for weight loss but also to control numerous metabolic disorders emerging alongside obesity.

Nutrition Process After Sleeve Gastrectomy

The nutritional regimen following sleeve gastrectomy is of great importance both for supporting the recovery process and for ensuring permanent weight control. Since the stomach volume is significantly reduced during this period, the digestive system must be gradually adapted to the new order.

In the first days after the operation, only clear liquids are allowed. This stage is critical for protecting the stomach's suture line and ensuring that healing progresses safely. In the following days, patients gradually transition to thick liquids, then to pureed foods, and later to solid foods.

Each transition process is planned under the supervision of a doctor and a dietitian. Since sudden or uncontrolled transitions can lead to stomach discomfort, nausea, or digestive problems, expert recommendations must be followed meticulously.

In addition, gaining the habit of eating slowly, chewing well, and consuming small portions after surgery is very important for both stomach health and long-term weight control. Fizzy drinks, excessively fatty and sugary foods should be avoided; care should be taken to consume sufficient water.

In individuals who follow the correct nutrition program after sleeve gastrectomy, the weight loss process progresses more healthily, and the quality of life increases by maintaining the necessary vitamin and mineral balance of the body.

Things to Consider After Sleeve Gastrectomy

The period after sleeve gastrectomy is an important process where patients adapt to their new lifestyle both physically and psychologically. Therefore, to maintain the success of the surgery, certain habits must be changed and doctor recommendations must be followed carefully.

Following the surgery, first of all, regular doctor check-ups should not be neglected. These check-ups are of great importance both for monitoring healing and for early detection of possible vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

In the nutritional regimen, eating small portions at frequent intervals should be the basic principle. Eating quickly or taking large bites can lead to stomach discomfort and nausea. Solid and liquid foods should not be taken in the same meal; liquids should be consumed at least half an hour before or after the meal.

Additionally, fizzy drinks, sugary foods, fried foods, and processed foods should be avoided as much as possible as they can negatively affect the healing process. Instead, a diet rich in protein, balanced, and containing vitamin-mineral support should be implemented.

Adequate water consumption after sleeve gastrectomy is as important as nutrition. Drinking water in small sips at frequent intervals throughout the day both facilitates digestion and maintains body balance.

Furthermore, physical activity should be increased gradually in this process, but heavy exercises should be avoided. Starting with light walks both supports metabolism and ensures that weight loss progresses healthily.

Finally, psychological support and motivation also hold an important place in this process. Because even if the stomach shrinks, it is not easy to change eating habits that have lasted for many years. For this reason, getting dietitian and psychologist support when necessary facilitates the person's adaptation to the process.

In individuals who pay attention to all these suggestions, weight loss becomes more permanent after sleeve gastrectomy and the quality of life increases significantly.

Advantages and Risks of Sleeve Gastrectomy

Sleeve gastrectomy is one of the modern surgical methods that yields effective results in the fight against obesity. This operation significantly reduces the stomach volume, allowing the person to reach a feeling of satiety with less food. However, as with any surgical procedure, this method has some risks as well as advantages.

Advantages

The most prominent advantage of sleeve gastrectomy is that weight loss occurs rapidly and permanently. Since the stomach size is reduced, the person is satisfied with less food and does not feel hungry for a long time. This situation positively affects not only weight control but also the course of many obesity-related diseases.

Significant improvements are seen especially in disorders such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and joint pain. Additionally, cholesterol levels drop after surgery, fatty liver decreases, and overall quality of life increases.

Another important advantage is that no radical changes are made to the intestinal system. In this way, the body's nutrient absorption is largely preserved, and nutrient deficiencies are experienced less compared to other obesity surgery methods.

Furthermore, significant gains are achieved from aesthetic and psychological perspectives. As weight is lost, self-confidence increases, mobility rises, and social life becomes more active.

Risks

As with every surgical intervention, some complications can arise in sleeve gastrectomy. The most common conditions include bleeding, infection, and the risk of leakage at the suture line. Although these complications are rare, the experience and sterile conditions at the center where the surgery is performed are of great importance.

Nausea, vomiting, and fluid loss may be experienced in the early period after surgery. This is usually related to not following the nutrition plan or eating too quickly. In the long term, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, especially drops in B12, iron, and vitamin D levels, can be observed.

Another risk is the possibility of the stomach expanding over time. If nutritional habits are not attended to after surgery, the stomach volume may increase again and weight loss may stop.

For all these reasons, individuals undergoing sleeve gastrectomy must not neglect regular doctor check-ups, maintain healthy eating habits, and permanently change their lifestyle.

Who is Sleeve Gastrectomy Applied To?

Sleeve gastrectomy is an effective surgical method developed for individuals who cannot lose permanent weight with diet and exercise and struggle in the fight against obesity. However, this operation is not applied to every overweight person; it is considered suitable for patients who meet certain criteria.

In general, this surgery is preferred for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) over 40 or those with a BMI over 35 who have obesity-related health problems such as diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea. In this way, it is aimed not only for weight loss but also to control accompanying diseases.

The surgery should be planned for individuals who are not only physically but also psychologically ready. Because the nutritional regimen changes completely after sleeve gastrectomy surgery and the patient must adapt to this new lifestyle. For the process to be successful in the long term, the person must be willing to change their eating habits permanently.

Additionally, adults in the 18–65 age range are generally considered suitable for this surgery. However, in some cases, it can be applied to older individuals who are in good general health or to young people approaching adolescence by doctor's decision.

Sleeve gastrectomy is not suitable for individuals planning pregnancy, those with active stomach ulcers, severe psychiatric disorders, or substance addiction. Similarly, a careful evaluation is made before the operation in individuals with serious heart, lung, or liver disease that would increase surgical risks.

In conclusion, sleeve gastrectomy is applied not only to lose weight but also to increase quality of life and reduce obesity-related health problems. However, since every patient's situation is different, it is of great importance to have a detailed examination and a personalized evaluation before this operation.

How is Sleeve Gastrectomy Performed?

Sleeve gastrectomy is a closed (laparoscopic) procedure that allows the person to be satisfied with less food by reducing the volume of the stomach. This method is one of the most frequently preferred applications in obesity surgery due to both its effective results and fast recovery process.

The operation is performed under general anesthesia and usually lasts between 1 and 2 hours. The surgical team performs the procedure by entering through small incisions in the abdominal area with special cameras and surgical instruments. Thanks to this technique, both the risk of infection decreases and post-operative pain is at a minimum level.

During the surgery, approximately 75–80% of the stomach is removed, leaving behind a banana-shaped, thin, long stomach section. This new shape significantly reduces stomach capacity, allowing the person to reach a feeling of satisfaction with less food. Additionally, since the part of the stomach that secretes the ghrelin hormone, which increases appetite, is also removed, the feeling of hunger naturally decreases.

After the procedure is completed, the stomach is meticulously closed and checked with leak tests. Patients are usually kept under observation in the hospital for 1–2 days after the surgery. During this time, nutrition with liquid foods begins, followed by a gradual transition to purees, soft foods, and then normal nutrition.

Although the recovery process after sleeve gastrectomy varies from person to person, most patients can return to their daily lives within a few weeks. Following the application, balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and doctor follow-up play a critical role in making the achieved weight loss permanent.

In conclusion, this method aims not only at weight loss but also at strengthening metabolic health and increasing quality of life.

Who Can Undergo Sleeve Gastrectomy?

Sleeve gastrectomy is an effective surgical option for people who cannot get results with other methods in the fight against obesity. However, not every overweight individual is suitable for this operation. The surgery decision is made by experts considering the person's general health status, body mass index (BMI), and lifestyle habits.

Those with a Body Mass Index of 40 and Above

Individuals with a body mass index over 40 are evaluated in the "morbid obesity" group. In these people, not only excess weight but also additional health problems such as heart diseases, joint disorders, and respiratory problems are frequently seen. Sleeve gastrectomy offers an effective solution for these patients.

Those with a BMI Over 35 and Comorbid Diseases

People with a body mass index over 35 who experience health problems such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, or high cholesterol are also suitable candidates for surgery. In patients in this group, surgical treatment aims not only for weight loss but also to take these diseases under control.

Those Who Cannot Get Results with Diet and Exercise

Surgical intervention may be preferred for individuals who cannot lose weight despite long-term diet programs, exercise routines, and medication support. Sleeve gastrectomy provides permanent results when supported by lifestyle changes.

Those Between 18–65 Years Old and in Suitable Health for Surgery

Sleeve gastrectomy can be applied to individuals over the age of 18 who have completed their physical and mental development and are in good general health. The age limit is usually 65; however, the operation can also be performed with doctor approval in older individuals in good general condition.

Those with No Health Problems Preventing Surgery

People with serious health problems such as heart failure, advanced lung diseases, uncontrolled diabetes, or active cancer are generally not suitable candidates for surgery. In such cases, the treatment of existing diseases is primarily aimed at.

Those Who Can Comply with Post-Operative Rules

Sleeve gastrectomy is only a beginning. Individuals who are willing to change their eating habits, go for regular check-ups, and increase physical activity after surgery achieve the most successful results.

How is Sleeve Gastrectomy Performed?

Sleeve gastrectomy is a modern surgical procedure that allows the person to consume less food and experience weight loss accordingly by reducing the volume of the stomach. It is generally applied with the laparoscopic (closed) method. In this way, the recovery process is faster and the surgical scar is much smaller.

Pre-Operative Preparation

• The patient undergoes a detailed evaluation before the surgery.
• Tests such as blood analyses, ECG, and chest X-ray are performed.
• Heart and respiratory functions are examined.
• When deemed necessary, support from endocrinology, a dietitian, and psychiatry is obtained.

The patient is asked to remain fasting for a certain period before general anesthesia is applied on the day of the operation. Additionally, a special liquid diet program may be applied 1–2 weeks before the surgery to shrink the liver and make the operation safer.

Application of the Surgery

After the patient is placed under anesthesia, several small incisions are opened in the abdominal area. Surgical instruments and a camera system are placed through these incisions. During the procedure performed with the laparoscopic method, the stomach is monitored in detail from the imaging screen.

The surgeon removes approximately 70–80% of the stomach, leaving behind a thin, long tube-shaped stomach. A special guide called a "calibration tube" is used during this procedure to avoid over-shrinking the stomach. The procedure is completed safely with special cutting and sealing devices along the stomach line.

Precautions against the risk of bleeding are taken during the surgery, and the stomach line is meticulously closed. After the procedure is completed, it is checked whether there is any air or liquid leakage inside.

Surgery Duration

Sleeve gastrectomy is usually completed in about 1–1.5 hours depending on the surgeon's experience and the patient's general condition.

Post-Operative Process

The patient is kept under observation in the hospital for 2–3 days after the operation. Usually, liquid foods are started on the first day, followed by a nutritional plan created gradually under the supervision of a dietitian.

In the post-operative period:

• Making slow walks supports the healing process.
• Fizzy drinks and heavy exercises should be avoided for the first few weeks.
• Vitamin and mineral supplements recommended by the doctor should be taken regularly.

Sleeve gastrectomy does not only shrink the stomach; it also creates a balance in the hormones that reduce the feeling of hunger. Thus, the person feels less hungry and experiences a feeling of satiety for a longer time.

Result and Effect

Following this surgical procedure, patients can lose a large part of their excess weight within the first 6–12 months. However, for permanent results, eating habits must be changed, regular check-ups must not be neglected, and an active lifestyle must be adopted.

Things to Consider After Sleeve Gastrectomy

Proper care and lifestyle changes after sleeve gastrectomy are of critical importance for both rapid recovery and permanent weight loss. The basic points to consider in the post-operative period are as follows:

Nutrition Regimen

• Only liquid foods should be consumed for the first 10–15 days.
• Then, transition to pureed foods and later to solid foods is made.
• Liquid and solid foods should not be consumed at the same time; a gap should be left between them to avoid straining the stomach.
• It is important that the foods have high nutritional value and are rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein.
• Fizzy, acidic, and bubbly drinks should be avoided.

Vitamin and Mineral Supplementation

• Since the body will now take in less food after the surgery, some nutritional elements may remain deficient.
• Vitamin and mineral supplements should be used under the guidance of a doctor or dietitian.
• Care should be taken for iron, calcium, vitamin B12, and protein intake.

Physical Activity

Heavy movements and lifting weights should be avoided in the first days.

Slow walks support healing and accelerate blood circulation.

Controlled sports and light exercises can be started within 1–1.5 months after surgery.

Signs of Leakage and Complications

• Emergency signs to watch out for after surgery:
• High fever, severe abdominal pain, constant nausea, and vomiting.
• In suspicious situations, the doctor should be contacted without losing time.

Sexual Life and Social Life

Unless the doctor gives a warning to the contrary, sexual life can usually continue safely one week after surgery.

Returning to social life is possible for most people within 5–7 days; heavy physical activities should be avoided in the first weeks.

Psychological Support

• Rapid weight loss and lifestyle changes can create psychological pressure in some people.
• Getting psychological support during this period increases motivation and raises the chance of success.

Long-Term Follow-up

• Regular check-ups and tests ensure the sustainability of weight loss.
• Eating habits should be attended to to prevent the stomach volume from enlarging again.
• Expert follow-up is necessary for early detection of vitamin deficiencies and possible complications.

Nutrition Guide After Sleeve Gastrectomy

The nutritional regimen after sleeve gastrectomy is of vital importance to both protect the stomach and make weight loss permanent. This process progresses in a gradual and controlled manner.

Weeks 1–2: Liquid Period

Goal: To provide fluid intake without straining the stomach.

What can be consumed: Water, unsweetened herbal teas, low-fat soup, unsweetened ayran, liquids prepared with protein powders.

Suggestions:

• Consume frequently in small sips throughout the day.
• Avoid sipping the liquid quickly; drinking slowly relaxes the stomach.

Weeks 2–4: Purees and Soft Foods

Goal: To facilitate digestion and gradually transition to solid food.

What can be consumed: Pureed vegetables, yogurt, curd cheese, pureed meat or chicken, egg yolk.

Suggestions:

• Consume very small portions at each meal.
• Swallow foods by mashing them thoroughly or turning them into a puree.

Weeks 4–6: Soft Solid Foods

Goal: To give the stomach a chance to get used to solid foods.

What can be consumed: Boiled vegetables, chicken or fish, soft cheeses, well-cooked eggs.

Suggestions:

• Divide meals into 5–6 small portions.
• Avoid acidic and fizzy foods.

After Week 6: Normal Diet and Long-Term Nutrition

Goal: To establish permanent weight loss and healthy eating habits.

What can be consumed: Whole-grain bread, fruits and vegetables, lean meat, fish, nuts, and legumes.

Suggestions:

• Continue with protein-oriented nutrition (to protect body and muscle mass).
• Meals should be small, frequent, and balanced.
• Eat meals slowly and chew thoroughly.

Important Points

• Do not take liquid and solid foods at the same time. This protects the stomach and prevents indigestion.
• Vitamin and mineral supplementation: Deficiencies in especially B12, iron, calcium, and vitamin D can be seen after surgery; supplements should be taken with doctor or dietitian recommendation.
• Protein intake priority: There should be a protein source at every meal (meat, chicken, fish, eggs, dairy products).
• Stay away from sugary and fizzy foods: These types of foods both prevent weight loss and can create stomach discomfort.
• Portion control: Since stomach volume is reduced, small portions with frequent meals should be preferred.

Psychological and Social Support

• Changes in eating habits may be challenging initially.
• Psychological support and motivation during this period contribute to weight loss being permanent.

Prices of Sleeve Gastrectomy (Surgery)

The cost of sleeve gastrectomy surgery can vary depending on many variables. These variables include the patient's general health status, the quality of medical and surgical materials to be used during surgery, and the experience and technical expertise of the team performing the operation. Additionally, the technological infrastructure of the health facility where the surgery will be performed, and the services related to the pre- and post-operative processes also affect the price. Each of these elements plays a role in determining the total cost of sleeve gastrectomy surgery. The most accurate method to reach up-to-date and detailed fee information is to communicate directly.

Provinces Where We Provide Sleeve Gastrectomy (Tube Stomach Surgery) Service

General Surgery Specialist Op. Dr. İbrahim Çolhan, with his experienced team and advanced technology medical equipment, performs successful operations in the field of Sleeve Gastrectomy (Tube Stomach Surgery). Op. Dr. İbrahim Çolhan provides safe and professional service not only in the city where he is located but also to patients coming from surrounding provinces such as Adana, Mersin, Osmaniye, and Hatay. Thanks to the comprehensive evaluations performed before the surgery, the meticulous approach during the operation process, and the nutritional counseling maintained afterward, patients experience a controlled and healthy recovery process.

If you want to get rid of your excess weight permanently, increase your quality of life, and make a new beginning with sleeve gastrectomy surgery, you can start your treatment process by contacting Op. Dr. İbrahim Çolhan. You can take the first step towards a healthier future by filling out the appointment form.