Sleeve gastrectomy or Vertical Sleeve gastrectomy is another bariatric surgical option at NorthShore. The Sleeve gastrectomy removes approximately 75% of the stomach, leaving a smaller remaining stomach portion, shaped like a banana. This surgery is performed under general anesthesia and is performed laparoscopically. Usually 1-2 nights stay in the hospital is necessary. The Sleeve is considered a “restrictive” surgery. The same vitamins are necessary after a Sleeve as with a gastric bypass. Follow up with the Bariatric team, for the rest of your life, is necessary with the Sleeve, as with any bariatric surgery.
Benefits of Sleeve Gastrectomy
- For those who do not wish to have a gastric bypass.
- No foreign objects are implanted, as with the Lap Band.
- Better weight loss than the Lap Band.
- For those that need nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (Nsaids) this surgery is preferred over the gastric bypass, as there is a lower risk of an ulcer.
Disadvantages of Sleeve Gastrectomy
- This is the only truly non-reversible bariatric surgery, as a portion of the stomach is actually removed from your body. (The gastric bypass is technically reversible, although reversing it comes with many risks.)
- Weight loss may not be as good as a gastric bypass.
- Long term data does not exist with the Sleeve, as it does with other bariatric surgeries.
- There is a slightly higher risk of a leak following a Sleeve gastrectomy than with a gastric bypass.
For More Information
For more information about sleeve gastrectomy or to schedule an appointment, please call 847.570.1700.