Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Houston
Why Choose Gastric Sleeve Surgery for Weight Loss?
Gastric sleeve surgery, also called sleeve gastrectomy, is one of the most popular and effective options for long-term weight loss. During this procedure, the stomach is reshaped into a small sleeve-like pouch, reducing its capacity by nearly 75%. This means you feel full with smaller portions, helping you naturally cut calories without the constant struggle of hunger.
Unlike gastric bypass, gastric sleeve surgery does not change how your body absorbs nutrients, so you can still get the vitamins and minerals you need. In addition, the procedure lowers the production of the hunger hormone (ghrelin), which helps reduce cravings and appetite.
What Happens During the Procedure?
At our Houston practice, gastric sleeve surgery is performed using a minimally invasive laparoscopic technique. This approach involves a few tiny incisions in the abdomen, through which a small camera and specialized instruments are inserted.
The surgeon carefully removes about three-quarters of the stomach, leaving behind a narrow “sleeve.” Because the intestines remain untouched, the digestive system continues to function normally. The procedure usually takes one to two hours, and most patients are able to return home within a short hospital stay.
Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery Right for You?
Gastric sleeve surgery is recommended for patients who:
Struggle with severe obesity and have a high body mass index (BMI)
Have health conditions related to obesity, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea
Have not achieved significant or lasting results through diet, exercise, or medical weight-loss programs
In some cases, sleeve gastrectomy is used as a first step for patients who may later need gastric bypass. This staged approach can lower risks for individuals with very high BMI or certain medical concerns. For others, the sleeve may be the only surgery needed to achieve long-term results.
The Life-Changing Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Patients who undergo gastric sleeve surgery can expect to lose 40% to 70% of their excess body weight in the first 12 months. More importantly, this weight loss often leads to life-changing improvements in overall health and quality of life.
Common benefits include:
Better control—or even remission—of type 2 diabetes
Lower blood pressure and improved heart health
Relief from sleep apnea and breathing difficulties
Improved cholesterol levels
Increased energy and mobility
Greater self-confidence and well-being
For many, gastric sleeve surgery is more than just weight loss—it’s a pathway to a healthier, more active life.
Understanding the Risks
As with any surgery, there are risks to consider. Potential complications include bleeding, infection, injury to nearby organs, or leakage from the stomach staple line. However, serious problems are uncommon, and major complications occur in less than 1% of cases.
When compared with other bariatric procedures, sleeve gastrectomy is generally considered safer than gastric bypass while offering more significant weight loss than gastric banding.
Safe & Effective Weight Loss
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