Sleeve Gastrectomy: What It Is, Who It Helps, and What to Expect

When you hear sleeve gastrectomy, a surgical procedure that removes about 80% of the stomach to create a smaller, tube-shaped pouch. Also known as gastric sleeve, it’s one of the most common bariatric surgery options today for people struggling with obesity and related health issues.

This isn’t just about looking different—it’s about changing how your body handles hunger and metabolism. After the surgery, your stomach holds far less food, so you feel full quicker. But it’s not just size—it’s hormones. The part of your stomach that makes ghrelin, the hunger hormone, gets removed. That means fewer cravings, less constant hunger, and more control over eating. People who’ve had it often say it’s not about willpower anymore—it’s about biology working differently.

It’s not for everyone. Doctors usually recommend it if your BMI is 40 or higher, or if it’s 35 with conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. It’s also an option if you’ve tried diet and exercise without lasting results. Unlike some other weight loss surgeries, it doesn’t involve rerouting the intestines, so there’s less risk of nutrient malabsorption. Still, you’ll need to take vitamins for life and follow strict eating rules—no gulping, no sugary drinks, no grazing.

Recovery is faster than you might think. Most people leave the hospital in one or two days. You’ll start with liquids, then move to soft foods, and eventually to regular meals—just much smaller portions. Weight loss comes steady: about half your excess weight in the first year. But success isn’t just about the scale. Many people see their diabetes improve or disappear, their blood pressure drop, and their energy levels climb. It’s not a magic fix—it’s a tool. And like any tool, it only works if you use it right.

There are risks, of course. Leaks, infections, blood clots—these are rare but serious. Some people get acid reflux after the surgery, or struggle with nausea if they eat too fast. And not everyone loses the same amount. Your results depend on your starting point, your habits, and how well you stick with follow-up care. That’s why support groups, dietitians, and regular check-ins matter so much.

Below, you’ll find real stories and expert advice on what happens before, during, and after sleeve gastrectomy. From managing side effects to dealing with insurance, from nutrition tips to long-term mental health, these posts cover what most guides leave out. Whether you’re considering the surgery, just had it, or know someone who did—you’ll find something that helps.