Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Offered at our convenient location in Houston, Texas
The Gastric Sleeve procedure is highly effective in treating obesity¹. Gastric Sleeve, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, vertical gastric sleeve or gastric sleeve resection surgery, is an excellent option for those who struggle with excess weight and haven’t had success with traditional methods of diet and exercise.
Benefits of Gastric Sleeve*
- Reduction in the hunger hormone Ghrelin
- Many patients with Type 2 Diabetes see improvement in their disease²
- Improvement in conditions such as sleep apnea, hypertension, high cholesterol, and joint pain³
- Digestion is not altered, so postoperative vitamin deficiencies are minimal
- Better success rates than diet and exercise alone, with average weight loss of 65% of excess body weight¹¹
How Does Gastric Sleeve Work?
The Gastric Sleeve restricts food intake by reducing the size of the stomach. Additionally, studies have shown that this procedure reduces ghrelin, which is a hormone that is responsible for hunger and cravings². This surgery is typically done laparoscopically, which may minimize scarring and lead to faster recovery time.* During the procedure, the surgeon removes approximately 70% of the stomach. The new, smaller stomach is tube shaped and retains the natural openings at the top and bottom. The newly shaped stomach fills quickly, so patients feel satisfied with much smaller amounts of food. Gastric Sleeve does not require repositioning of the intestines and does not involve any devices, and is widely regarded as a safe and effective surgery which can also help treat conditions such as Type 2 Diabetes, sleep apnea, and hypertension.3
TLC Surgery specializes in a comprehensive approach to weight loss. Our skilled and experienced bariatric surgeons have helped thousands of people with procedures such as the Gastric Sleeve.* Call us at (713) 493-7700 or contact us by email to begin your weight loss journey today.
How Is Gastric Sleeve Performed?
Watch this detailed animation of how the gastric sleeve (or sleeve gastrectomy) procedure is performed.
Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery at TLC
In this video from Texas Laparoscopic Consultants, learn how the sleeve gastrectomy procedure works to achieve weight loss.
What is a Gastric Sleeve?
Dr. Sherman Yu explains the laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy surgery.
Gastric Sleeve Compared to Other Types of Bariatric Surgery
Gastric Sleeve surgery has replaced both Gastric Bypass Surgery and Laparoscopic Gastric banding (Lap-band) Surgery in recent years due to fewer complication rates and technical simplicity and is now the number one bariatric surgery procedure.
Lap-band was once a popular option, but due to inferior weight loss and a high rate of complications, the number of these surgeries is dwindling worldwide. Similarly, Gastric Bypass Surgery was considered the gold standard of bariatric surgery for years. However, the Gastric Sleeve has surpassed this procedure in popularity with both physicians and patients for superior weight loss results and fewer long-term complications.
Gastric Sleeve vs. Gastric Bypass Surgery
The Gastric Sleeve is safer than Gastric Bypass due to it being a less complex surgery and requiring significantly less time in the operating room. Additionally, patients who undergo Gastric Sleeve are less likely to develop vitamin or nutrient deficiencies, and the risk of mal-absorption, bowel obstruction, marginal ulcer, and internal hernias that can occur following Gastric Bypass are exceedingly rare.
LaMonicaI battled with my weight for 18 years and finally decided to have the gastric sleeve with Dr. Sherman Yu. I have more energy, am confident in my clothes and I am getting restful sleep again!"
FAQs About Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Does Insurance Cover Gastric Sleeve?
Many insurance plans cover weight loss surgery, but navigating the different requirements and coverage details can be difficult. We have a team of experts who have successfully helped many of our patients obtain coverage through their provider. We offer a free insurance check to all of our patients who want to learn more about their coverage options.
What if My Insurance Plan Doesn’t Cover Gastric Sleeve?
We have partnered with medical financing lenders to provide our patients with an easy way to finance their surgery. Monthly payments can make it possible to invest in better health, even without insurance. Some patients who do have insurance coverage decide to self-pay to avoid pre-requisites and waiting times that may be mandated by insurance companies.
How Much Does Gastric Sleeve Surgery Cost?
At Texas Laparoscopic Consultants, we are committed to putting better health within reach. We provide special pricing and financing options for self-pay patients. Our inclusive gastric sleeve package includes monthly payments as low as $353 per month which are available through independent medical lenders.* Learn more about self-pay pricing.
*Prices are estimated and may change. Estimated monthly payments are subject to financing approval from independent lenders. Additional fees may apply, please see full disclaimer on payment options page.
Self Pay Package
Monthly Payments As Low As
$353
*Estimated monthly payment for those who qualify. Pricing is subject to change.
Risks and Recovery
Gastric Sleeve has been extensively studied and is generally regarded to be a safe and effective procedure that has the potential to treat many life threatening obesity related diseases. However, it presents the same risks as any routine surgical procedure. Patients may experience some pain and discomfort after surgery which will be managed with medication. Generally speaking, patients who receive successful laparoscopic Gastric Sleeve are able to resume day-to-day activities after one week.* Patients will need to commit to follow up appointments so that our team can check progress and provide support for their new, healthier lifestyle.
Traveling to TLC From Out-Of-Town?
Our practice welcomes patients from all over to partner with our team in their weight loss journey. We’ve gathered some helpful information on where to stay and what to expect after weight loss surgery.
For those that would like to begin the process ahead of time, we offer virtual consultations, online nutrition classes & support, plus all new-patient paperwork can be completed online. Once surgery is scheduled, your pre-operative appointment must be in-person, but can be done up to one day before surgery. During recovery, post-surgery appointments can be done over-the-phone, as well. For more information, please contact us.
Maintaining Weight Loss After Gastric Sleeve
Gastric Sleeve surgery is a powerful tool for weight loss and it can be the first step in a total transformation to better health, increased confidence, and a more active lifestyle. Weight loss surgery is a tool to help patients shed excess weight, and our team is dedicated to providing the support necessary for our patients to succeed in their journey and reach their goals. It is important to make lifestyle changes to maintain weight loss. Steps that may promote successful weight loss include:
- Developing healthy eating habits
- Maintaining a fitness and exercise routine
- Utilizing a supportive community
- Making an appointment with your physician or dietitian if your weight loss stalls
- Keeping in touch with our team to assure that you stay on track
- Staying motivated with new fitness tips, healthy recipes and weight loss inspiration, which you can find on our Facebook Page
Schedule A Consultation For Gastric Sleeve
If you’re interested in learning more about Gastric Sleeve surgery, the first step is coming in for a personal consultation. During that visit, you’ll be able to discuss your concerns and your goals with one of our leading bariatric surgeons. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Pre-Surgery: Liquid Diet
2 Weeks Before Surgery
Protein Supplements (3 to 5 servings daily, 60-150 grams of protein daily)
Choose supplements with >20g of protein, <10 grams of fat, <10 grams of sugar, <250 calories per serving
- Ready to Drink options: Premier Protein, Muscle Milk, Unjury, Iconic
- Protein Powder options (mixed with ice, water/low fat milk/unsweetened nut milk, no fruit/vegetables): Bariatric Advantage High Protein Meal Replacement, Isopure, Orgain
- Avoid: smoothies, food
Clear Liquids (+64oz daily)
Choose products with <50calories, <10g sugar per 8oz serving
- Water with lemon, Crystal Light, G2/GZero, Proper, MiO
- Decaf tea/coffee, herbal tea with sugar substitute
- Sugar free gelatin/ice pops
- Broth (store bought, homemade)
- Avoid: any carbonated beverages, fruit/vegetable juice, soup
Post-Surgery Diet
Day 1-2
+48-64oz Clear Liquids
- Sip on clear liquids (same clear liquid options as pre-op): Crystal Light, G2, GZero, Mio, sugar free gelatin/ice pops, broth
- Do not drink: carbonated beverages, caffeine, protein shakes
- Avoid: drinking through straws, vitamins and do not eat any food.
Day 3-14 (2 weeks)
Full/Thick Liquids
- Start slowly taking Bariatric vitamins
- +48-64oz clear liquids
- +40-60 grams of protein from 1-3 Protein Supplements (Ready to Drink, or protein shakes made with protein powder and water/low fat milk/unsweetened nut milk)
- Smooth (strained) and thick, low fat soups (no rice/noodles, meats, vegetable pieces)
- Smooth, low fat, low sugar Greek yogurt
- Smooth, sugar free pudding
Day 15-28 (weeks 3 and 4)
Pureed Foods
- +48-64oz clear liquids
- +40-60 grams of protein from 1 – 3 servings of Protein Supplements (Ready to Drink, or protein shakes made with protein powder and water/low fat milk/unsweetened nut milk)
- Protein foods: Mashed scrambled eggs, mashed white fish/tuna, finely minced ground turkey, cottage cheese
- High fiber foods: Mashed beans, mashed fruits (bananas, raspberries, pears, etc), mashed vegetables (carrots, peas, cauliflower, avocado, etc.)
- Plain, instant hot cereals
Weeks 5 and 6
Chopped Soft Solid Foods
- +48-64oz clear liquids
- +40-60 grams of protein from 1 – 3 servings of Protein Supplements (Ready to Drink, or protein shakes made with protein powder and water/low fat milk/unsweetened nut milk)
- Protein foods: soft, tender meats (skinless, dark meat chicken, pot roast/roast beef, baked fish), eggs, low fat cheese, low fat deli slices
- High fiber foods: beans, soft cooked vegetables, peeled fruits, high fiber crackers/breakfast cereals
- Avoid bread, pasta, rice and tortillas for 6 months after surgery.
Week 7 and beyond
Chopped Solid Foods (Maintenance Phase)
- +48-64oz clear liquids
- +60-80 grams of protein from 1 – 3 servings of Protein Supplements (Ready to Drink, or protein shakes made with protein powder and water/low fat milk/unsweetened nut milk)
- Protein foods: chopped meats, eggs, low fat cheese, deli meats
- High fiber foods: beans, chopped and shredded raw/cooked vegetables, chopped fruits with skin-on, high fiber crackers/breakfast cereals
Am I A Candidate for Gastric Sleeve?
References
¹ Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases (SOARD), the Official Journal of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery March–April, 2014 Volume 10, Issue 2, Pages 243–249
² World Journal of Gastroenterology 2015 Nov 7; 21(41): 11804–11814
³ Canadian Journal of Surgery 2013 Feb; 56(1): 47–57
¹¹ Journal of Minimum Access Surgery. 2016 Jul-Sep; 12(3): 220–225
The TLC Surgery Doctors have either authored or reviewed and approved this content.