Sleeve Gastrectomy 101: What to Expect Before, During, and After Surgery

At WA Weight Loss Centre, we understand that considering sleeve gastrectomy is a significant step in your weight loss journey. Our team is dedicated to providing the highest level of care, ensuring that you are well informed and supported every step of the way.

Sleeve gastrectomy is one of the most effective and commonly performed weight loss surgeries in Australia, and for good reason. By reducing the stomach size, this procedure helps individuals achieve sustainable weight loss and improve their overall health. However, understanding what to expect before, during, and after the surgery is crucial to ensuring a smooth process and long-term success.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about sleeve gastrectomy at WA Weight Loss Centre so that you can approach the procedure with confidence and clarity.

Understanding Sleeve Gastrectomy

Sleeve gastrectomy, also known as vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) or tube gastrectomy, is a minimally invasive weight loss procedure that permanently reduces the size of the stomach. This surgery is performed laparoscopically at WA Weight Loss Centre, meaning small incisions are made, leading to a faster recovery time and minimal scarring.

During the procedure, approximately 70% of the stomach is removed, leaving behind a tube or “sleeve”-shaped stomach. This reduces the stomach’s capacity from about 1500 ml to 200-250 ml, significantly decreasing the amount of food you can consume in one sitting.

Beyond portion control, sleeve gastrectomy also affects hormones that regulate hunger, such as ghrelin. Lower levels of this hormone naturally reduce appetite, making it easier for many patients to adopt healthier eating habits.

At WA Weight Loss Centre, we ensure that all patients understand the implications of the procedure, the required lifestyle changes, and the long-term commitment needed to achieve optimal results.

Before Surgery: Preparation and Planning

Embarking on the sleeve gastrectomy journey requires thorough preparation. At WA Weight Loss Centre, our pre-operative programme is designed to help you prepare both physically and mentally for the procedure.

1. Medical and Lifestyle Assessment

Your journey begins with a comprehensive assessment to determine if you are a suitable candidate for surgery. Our experienced team includes:

• Dr Werapitiya is an Australian-trained bariatric surgeon with over 16 years of experience in weight loss surgery.
• Dr Tanya Coulson is a bariatric physician specialising in medical weight loss and pre-surgery preparation.
• Lisa, our bariatric dietician, will help you adjust your eating habits before and after surgery.

Our anaesthetist team, led by Dr Wilson Lim, will also conduct evaluations to ensure you are fit for surgery and provide guidance on what to expect with anaesthesia.

2. Pre-Surgery Diet and Lifestyle Changes

To ensure a safe and successful procedure, you may need to follow a pre-surgery diet, typically a low-calorie, high-protein diet. This diet helps to shrink the liver, making surgery safer and more effective.

Other lifestyle changes may include:

• Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol intake to improve healing and reduce complications.
• Increasing physical activity to improve overall fitness before surgery.
• Addressing emotional eating habits with the support of our team.

During Surgery: What Happens in the Operating Room?

Understanding what happens during surgery can help ease anxiety and prepare you mentally for the procedure.

1. Admission and Anaesthesia

On the day of your sleeve gastrectomy, you will be admitted to the hospital and prepared for surgery. Our team will ensure you feel comfortable and answer any last-minute questions. You will receive general anaesthesia, meaning you will be asleep and feel no pain during the procedure.

2. The Procedure Itself

Sleeve gastrectomy is performed laparoscopically, using small incisions. The surgeon will:

1. Make a few small incisions in the abdomen.
2. Insert a laparoscope (a tiny camera) to guide the procedure.
3. Remove approximately 70% of the stomach, leaving a smaller, tube-shaped stomach.
4. Close the incisions using sutures or surgical staples.

The entire procedure typically takes 60 to 90 minutes.

3. Post-Surgery Recovery in the Hospital

After the surgery, you will be moved to a recovery area, where our team will monitor you closely. Most patients stay in the hospital for one to two nights.

Common post-surgery sensations include:

• Soreness at the incision sites
• Mild nausea due to anaesthesia
• Feeling full quickly after consuming liquids

Pain management and hydration are prioritised to ensure a smooth recovery.

After Surgery: Recovery and Long-Term Success

1. Post-Operative Diet Plan

Adjusting to a new way of eating is crucial. Our dieticians at WA Weight Loss Centre will guide you through a structured post-surgery diet that progresses in stages:

1. Liquid diet (first 1-2 weeks): Drink clear liquids such as broth, herbal tea, and diluted juices.
2. Pureed diet (weeks 2-4) – Blended soft foods such as yoghurt, mashed vegetables, and protein shakes.
3. Soft foods (weeks 4-6) – Well-cooked vegetables, soft proteins, and scrambled eggs.
4. Solid foods (after 6 weeks) – Gradually returning to normal textures while maintaining portion control.

2. Managing Side Effects and Monitoring Health

Common side effects include:

• Fatigue as your body adjusts to reduced calorie intake.
• Temporary hair thinning due to rapid weight loss.
• Changes in digestion, such as bloating or nausea.

Regular follow-ups with our bariatric team help monitor your nutrient levels and overall health.

3. Lifestyle Adjustments for Long-Term Success

Surgery is only part of the solution. Maintaining weight loss requires permanent lifestyle changes, including:

• Regular physical activity (e.g., walking, swimming, or strength training)
• Mindful eating habits (eating slowly, avoiding processed foods, and prioritising protein)
• Ongoing emotional support from family, friends, or a support group

At WA Weight Loss Centre, we provide ongoing psychological and nutritional support to help you stay on track.

4. Potential Risks and How to Prevent Them

While sleeve gastrectomy is generally safe, it carries some risks, including:

• Leakage or infection at the surgical site
• Acid reflux due to changes in stomach size
• Nutrient deficiencies (iron, B12, calcium, and vitamin D)

To minimise these risks, we encourage regular check-ups, nutritional supplementation, and lifestyle adherence.

Is Sleeve Gastrectomy Right for You?

Sleeve gastrectomy can be a life-changing procedure for individuals struggling with obesity and weight-related health issues. It is a powerful tool for long-term weight loss, but success depends on commitment to lifestyle changes and continuous support.

If you are considering this surgery, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact WA Weight Loss Centre today to start your journey towards a healthier and happier life.

Visit the WA Weight Loss Centre for more information or to book a consultation.