Stomach Sleeve Gastrectomy

Surgery in Knoxville, TN

In the Sleeve Gastrectomy procedure, also called the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG), 70-80% of the stomach is surgically removed, resulting in a sleeve or banana-shaped tube. The procedure is normally performed laparoscopically using small instruments inserted into tiny incisions in the upper abdomen. By limiting the size of the stomach, the amount of food you can eat is restricted. The procedure also prompts hormonal changes that help relieve conditions associated with obesity.

The Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy is relatively new as a standalone weight loss surgical procedure.  It is the first part of the Biliary Pancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPDDS, DS) operation for the super obese patient (BMI > 50).  There are instances where the VSG may be the best option when:
 

  1. The patient desires a restrictive operation without a foreign body.
  2. A stand-alone weight loss surgical procedure for a patient with a BMI < 50 who does not want their intestine bypassed is desired.
  3. A staged operation for patients with excessively high surgical risk and BMI is desired.  Staging procedures may reduce the risk of complications for the patient.

Advantages

  • Metabolic Procedure
  • Patients can expect to lose 50% of their excess body weight at one year, depending on their starting BMI.
  • Good appetite control
  • Low risk of weight regain (~25%)

Risks

  • Long term studies lacking.
  • Irreversible
  • Less effective for BMI greater than 50
  • Can worsen GERD (Reflux)

Recovery

Patients can expect to spend one to two nights in the hospital for a Sleeve Gastrectomy procedure. Pain and nausea are typically easily controlled with oral medication. Before discharge from the hospital, most patients are able to have their drain removed, and all patients will undergo a lower extremity venous doppler to evaluate for blood clots in their veins. 

Activity is progressed slowly and patients may return to a sedentary job after about two weeks.  Patients can expect an excess weight loss of about 50% of their excess weight with this procedure on average.

Same-day, Self-pay Gastric Sleeve Available:  Starting at $13,000

If you’re an appropriate candidate, Dr. Williams can perform the Sleeve Gastrectomy procedure on an outpatient basis. The price starts at $13,000. For an additional $500, expanded BLIS coverage is also available.

Please note: not all patients will qualify for same-day surgery. Patient eligibility depends on whether you meet the health critiera required for a safe outpatient surgery. Dr. Williams and his team will determine if you are an appropriate candidate. 

Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery FAQs

What is a sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) procedure?

A sleeve gastrectomy, or Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG), is a bariatric procedure where 70-80% of the stomach is surgically removed to create a sleeve or banana-shaped tube. This minimally invasive surgery restricts food intake and triggers hormonal changes that help alleviate obesity-related health conditions.

How does the gastric sleeve help with weight loss?

The procedure works by significantly reducing the stomach’s size to limit the amount of food you can consume at one time. Additionally, it is a metabolic procedure that provides good appetite control and prompts physiological changes to support long-term weight management.

How much weight can I expect to lose after a sleeve gastrectomy?

On average, patients can expect to lose approximately 50% of their excess body weight within the first year following the procedure. Individual results depend on several factors, including your starting Body Mass Index (BMI) and commitment to lifestyle changes.

What is the typical recovery time after gastric sleeve surgery?

Most patients spend one to two nights in the hospital, and pain or nausea is typically managed well with oral medications. While activity is progressed slowly, many individuals are able to return to sedentary or office-style jobs within about two weeks.

Are there any risks associated with sleeve gastrectomy?

As with any surgery, there are risks such as the potential to worsen Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and the fact that the procedure is irreversible. While the risk of weight regain is low at approximately 25%, success requires adherence to the recommended post-operative regimen.