The Gastric Sleeve / Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy

Weight loss is no easy feat. If you've tried multiple weight loss strategies, and you have 100 or more pounds to lose, you may want to consider laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, commonly referred to as the gastric sleeve.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 484.476.6230.

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Is gastric sleeve right for me?

This procedure, which involves removing a portion of your stomach, can be an effective way to help you lose weight permanently. While this procedure is not for everyone, it might be for you if:

You're 100 or more pounds over your ideal body weight
You have a history of complex surgeries
You have obesity-related medical conditions

At Main Line Health we serve patients throughout Philadelphia with comprehensive surgical weight loss solutions, including the gastric sleeve and other weight loss surgery procedures that have proven effective in helping people maintain long-term healthy weight loss and maintenance.

How the gastric sleeve works

During laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, your surgeon will remove about 75 percent of your current stomach. You'll be left with a small "sleeve" that's connected directly to your small intestine. Once the surgery is complete, you won't need any adjustments or further procedures. After having the procedure, your stomach will be smaller, and you'll notice that you feel full after eating much smaller portions of food. Eating these smaller portions will lead to weight loss.

The gastric sleeve also happens to be considered the safest weight loss surgery. This is because it does not involve "bypassing" the small intestines like gastric bypass surgery. Therefore, you will digest food normally and your body will continue to absorb necessary nutrients. It is also less invasive than some other types of bariatric surgeries. The procedure requires fewer incisions and carries fewer risks of complication. There is also nothing left inside of the body such as a "band" so there is less risk of infection.

As with every type of surgery, of course, there are some risks, which your bariatric surgeon will discuss with you.

Find out more about the gastric sleeve

You may want to know more about the benefits of gastric sleeve and how to qualify for gastric sleeve surgery. The best way to get all of your questions answered and to explore the different types of weight loss surgery is to attend one of Main Line Health's free bariatric information sessions where you'll meet bariatric surgeon Richard D. Ing, MD.