Considering sleeve gastrectomy complications and risks

During a sleeve gastrectomy, a bariatric surgeon removes 75 to 80 percent of your stomach to create a tube, or sleeve. This reduces the amount of food you can eat.

At Goshen Physicians Center for Weight Reduction, our integrated team is committed to your weight loss success. We offer sleeve gastrectomy as one of our bariatric surgery treatment options. As part of our medically managed weight loss program, we help you understand sleeve gastrectomy complications in Goshen, IN, and work with you to decide the best approach to achieving your weight loss goals.

If you’re ready to start a life-changing journey toward weight loss, download a free resource packet today.

What are the benefits of sleeve gastrectomy?

The benefits of sleeve gastrectomy usually outweigh the risks. This bariatric surgery often resolves or improves obesity-related diseases such as high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes. Like gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy causes beneficial changes in the gut hormones. This helps you feel more satisfied after eating and stay satisfied longer.

Experienced bariatric surgeons at the Center for Weight Reduction perform sleeve gastrectomy as a laparoscopic procedure. This means we use minimally invasive techniques involving several small incisions instead of a larger one necessary for open surgery. Laparoscopic procedures generally have fewer short-term risks than open surgery such as less pain and a shorter recovery period.

Possible sleeve gastrectomy side effects

Originally, sleeve gastrectomy was the first step in a two-stage procedure called a duodenal switch, but it is now often used as a stand-alone surgery.

General risks of bariatric surgery include dehydration, food intolerances, gallstones and malnutrition. Potential sleeve gastrectomy complications include:

Gastritis, the inflammation of the stomach lining leading to heartburn, nausea and pain
Leakage of digestive juices and stomach contents at the incision
Peritonitis, or inflammation and infection of the membrane lining the abdomen
Sleeve stricture, which is a tightening and narrowing of the stomach tube

Warning signs of a complication include persistent nausea or vomiting, abdominal pain, trouble swallowing or feeling like food is stuck. Let your provider at the Center for Weight Reduction know right away if you have these symptoms.

Caring for your complete well-being, we offer free informational seminars, supports groups and other resources as ways to take control of your weight and improve your health.

Serving Elkhart County and beyond, Goshen Physicians Center for Weight Reduction helps prevent sleeve gastrectomy complications and risks in Goshen, IN.