Gastric sleeve surgery (or sleeve gastrectomy) is a procedure involving the removal of a large part of the stomach to reduce food intake. This surgery is meant to help those with high cholesterol, insulin resistance, or other lifestyle-related health issues manage their symptoms and lower the risk of further complications. Understanding gastric sleeve surgery can help one make an informed decision about undergoing the procedure. So, here is a brief overview of the procedure:

Purpose
Excessive cholesterol and excessive fat accumulation in the body are two concerning health issues that pave the way for serious complications like heart failure, high blood pressure, hypertension, kidney failure, and circulatory issues. Here, a large percentage of fat tends to accumulate around the stomach and gut. So, surgically removing part of the stomach and leaving behind a narrow tube-like “sleeve” of the stomach can help one reduce their food intake—which directly contributes to the abovementioned health issues.

Procedure
Those undergoing gastric sleeve surgery are typically asked not to eat or drink anything for up to 12 hours before the procedure. With the exception of minor variations, the following step-by-step procedure is followed for gastric sleeve surgery:

• First, chest X-rays and other scans are taken before surgery to ensure one can be administered prescription treatment to prevent pain during the procedure and help them stay asleep throughout the procedure and a few hours following it. Then, one is positioned in the operating room.
• Following the preliminary steps and prep, the surgeon makes a small incision of about half an inch in the patient’s abdomen before inserting a port. This port enables the treatment team to pump carbon dioxide gas to expand the abdomen, making it easier to operate on it.
• A small video camera (called a laparoscope) is placed through the port into the abdomen. This camera lets the surgeon see the insides of the gut in real-time on a screen adjacent to the operating table.
• The surgeon goes on to make two to three incisions on the abdomen based on the visuals from the laparoscope. Then, multiple ports are inserted through these incisions.
• Using the ports, the surgeon and their team perform the stomach removal procedure using long, sharp, and narrow surgical tools. Here, the team measures the sleeve before dividing and separating the remainder of the stomach using a surgical stapler.
• Then, the portion of the stomach is removed in phases. After the removal, the surgeons quickly evaluate the portions of the stomach still left in the body before carefully removing the ports and closing each incision one after another.
• The operation takes about 60 to 90 minutes from start to completion, making it one of the quicker major procedures. After they regain consciousness, one is advised to recover in the hospital for about two to three days. During this period, one can experience side effects of the surgery, like pain and nausea, which need to be monitored. In the weeks following the discharge, one will have to schedule numerous follow-ups, during which their total mass loss, cholesterol levels, and overall health condition will be examined using various tests.

Cost
The average cost of gastric sleeve surgery ranges from $7,400 to $34,000, with the average cost being $14,000. The cost can vary based on factors like the surgeon’s expertise, location, and health insurance coverage. Insurance companies tend to cover at least a part of the expenses if the procedure aims to tackle serious health conditions.

Risks and considerations
Removing a large part of the stomach may be a key concern of those who have been recommended this procedure. So, for those considering, “Is the gastric sleeve surgery safe?” discussing the risks and outcomes with the doctor can help address this concern. The procedure is generally considered safe; however, like any other operation, certain risks are attached to it. Some of the side effects of the procedure include infections, adverse reactions, respiratory issues, bleeding, and blood clots. Most issues can be avoided or managed with appropriate care following the surgery.

Nevertheless, understanding what to expect during and after the procedure can help one make an informed decision about undergoing gastric sleeve surgery. One may also have to make lifestyle changes following the procedure, so the next steps are another key aspect that should be discussed with the doctor. Additionally, adequate research on the subject can help find a reliable surgeon with enough expertise to discuss the abovementioned key details of gastric sleeve surgery. One can also seek recommendations from friends, family members, and primary physicians to find the best surgeon.