Sleeve gastrectomy is a surgical weight-loss procedure typically performed laparoscopically. During the surgery, about 80% of the stomach is removed, leaving a tube-shaped stomach about the size of a banana. This limits food intake and reduces hunger hormones, contributing to weight loss and improvements in weight-related health problems, such as:
-Heart disease
-High blood pressure
-High cholesterol
-Obstructive sleep apnea
-Type 2 diabetes
-Stroke
-Cancer
Sleeve gastrectomy is usually considered after other weight loss efforts fail. It's typically an option for people with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher. It may also be considered for people with a BMI of 35 to 39.9 who have a serious weight-related health problem.
However, this surgery requires a lifelong commitment to healthy habits. Patients must be willing to make permanent lifestyle changes and participate in long-term follow-up plans that monitor their nutrition, lifestyle, and medical conditions.
