What is it Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy?

Under local anesthesia, the surgeon will remove 80% of the stomach through the part of the stomach that curves outwards called the fundus.

When removed, the surgeon will close the rest of the stomach into a tube shape that looks like a banana or the sleeve of a shirt, hence the term “sleeve gastrectomy”. With a smaller stomach, the patient will feel full eating less.

 Another factor to consider is that patients that suffer from sleep apnea, diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol, find that these conditions may improve by up to 75%.

This is usually individualized based on the surgery and the patient. Most patients require pain medication for one week following surgery. It may be advised to avoid intercourse, baths, douching, strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for 4-6 weeks after the operation.

Most people stay in the hospital for 2 to 3 days, and get back to normal activities in 3 to 5 weeks.

Lifestyle changes are an important part of post operative recovery. Bariatric surgery improves your physical quality of life as you become more flexible.

It will help you

• regain independence,
• improve breathing,
• increase energy and stamina,
• and relieve joint pain caused by obesity.

Exercise will become faster and easier as the excess weight is lost, build stamina and discover cardiovascular fitness.

Dietary requirements for the first few days after the operation will include fluids such as small sips of water, low calorie drinks and sugar free juices.

Individuals must avoid malnutrition after a gastrectomy by eating sufficient protein every day.

Patients should take supplements, vitamins and minerals to avoid deficiencies. Supplements should either be in a liquid, under-the-tongue or a chewable form right after surgery