Sleeve Gastrectomy: What It Is, Who It Helps, and What to Expect

When you hear sleeve gastrectomy, a surgical procedure that reduces stomach size to help with weight loss. Also known as gastric sleeve, it's one of the most common bariatric surgery options today. Unlike older methods that reroute the intestines, this one simply removes about 80% of your stomach, leaving a thin, banana-shaped tube. That smaller stomach holds less food, so you feel full faster—and your body produces less of the hunger hormone ghrelin.

This isn’t just about looking different. People who get sleeve gastrectomy often see major improvements in conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea. Studies show that most patients lose 50 to 70% of their excess weight in the first year. But it’s not a magic fix. Success depends on changing how you eat, moving more, and sticking with follow-up care. The procedure works best for those with a BMI over 40, or over 35 with serious health issues tied to weight. It’s not for everyone—especially if you’re not ready to commit to lifelong dietary changes.

After surgery, you’ll need to adjust to eating small meals, avoiding sugary drinks, and taking vitamin supplements. Many people report feeling better within weeks, but the real challenge comes in the months after: learning to eat differently, managing cravings, and staying consistent. That’s why the posts below cover everything from how to handle side effects like nausea and acid reflux, to what foods actually work after surgery, and how to avoid regaining weight. You’ll also find real advice on dealing with nutritional gaps, managing hunger cues, and understanding how your body changes after the stomach is reshaped. Whether you’re considering the surgery, just had it, or are helping someone who did, these guides give you the practical, no-fluff details you need to succeed.