Procedure · Bariatric

Sleeve gastrectomy, single-stage weight loss

Laparoscopic sleeve for medically eligible patients · Apollo Nellore

Sleeve Gastrectomy is the most commonly performed bariatric procedure worldwide. It is technically simpler than Gastric Bypass, has fewer long term nutritional concerns, and produces strong weight loss in most patients.

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01 · Bariatric

What is Sleeve Gastrectomy?

Sleeve Gastrectomy removes about 75 to 80 percent of the stomach laparoscopically, leaving behind a narrow banana shaped tube. The smaller stomach holds less food, and the removed portion produces less of the hunger hormone ghrelin. Both restriction and hormonal change drive weight loss.

02 · Bariatric

Who is a good candidate?

BMI 35 or higher with comorbidities (Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, PCOS)
BMI 40 or higher with or without comorbidities
Patients who prefer a single stage procedure without rerouting of the intestine
Patients who are not severe acid reflux sufferers (Sleeve can worsen reflux in some cases)

For patients with severe reflux or very high BMI (over 50), Gastric Bypass is usually the better choice. Dr. Reddy will guide you to the right procedure for your body and health profile.

03 · Bariatric

How Dr. Reddy performs it

01 4 to 5 small incisions in the upper abdomen
02 The greater curvature of the stomach is mobilised
03 About 80 percent of the stomach is divided and removed using a stapler over a calibration tube
04 The staple line is reinforced
05 Specimen is removed through one of the small incisions

The procedure typically takes 60 to 90 minutes.

04 · Bariatric

Recovery

Hospital stay	2 to 3 days.
Diet	Liquid diet for 2 weeks, then soft diet for 2 weeks.
Return to office work	2 weeks.
Full physical activity	4 to 6 weeks.
Long term follow up	At 1, 3, 6, 12 months, and annually thereafter.

05 · Bariatric

Expected results

60 to 70 percent excess weight loss in 12 to 18 months
Significant improvement or remission of Type 2 diabetes
Improvement in hypertension, sleep apnea, and fatty liver
Better mobility, energy, and quality of life

06 · Bariatric

Risks

Sleeve Gastrectomy in expert hands is safe with complication rates similar to gallbladder surgery. Risks include bleeding, leak from the staple line (rare in expert hands), worsening of acid reflux in some patients, and nutritional deficiencies if supplements are not taken.

07 · Bariatric

Why Dr. Reddy for Sleeve Gastrectomy

Trained in advanced bariatric techniques
Apollo Nellore offers full multidisciplinary bariatric care
Honest patient selection (you may be guided to Bypass instead if Sleeve is not ideal for you)
Lifelong follow up programme

08 · Bariatric

Frequently asked questions

Will my stomach stretch back over time?

A small amount of stretching happens naturally. With proper portion control and follow up, this does not significantly affect long term results.

Can I get pregnant after Sleeve?

Yes. Most surgeons recommend waiting 12 to 18 months after surgery so weight stabilises, then pregnancy is safe and often easier.

What if I regain weight?

Modest regain (5 to 10 percent of total loss) is common. Significant regain is uncommon with proper follow up. Revision options exist if needed.

Is the procedure reversible?

No. The removed portion of the stomach cannot be put back. This is one reason careful patient selection matters.

Related conditions

Conditions this procedure treats.

ICD-10 · E66

Obesity

A chronic disease characterised by excess body fat. In severe forms (class II and III), associated with diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnoea, and reduced life expectancy. Bariatric surgery is the most effective long-term treatment.

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Next step

Send your height, weight, and current health conditions on WhatsApp for an initial eligibility check.

Check your eligibility on WhatsApp