Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Dubai

What is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Gastric sleeve surgery, or sleeve gastrectomy, is one of the most popular weight-loss surgeries today. If you’ve been considering this procedure, you probably have a lot of questions. This guide will cover everything you need to know, including what the surgery involves, its benefits, potential risks, and what to expect before and after the operation.

Gastric sleeve surgery is a type of bariatric surgery designed to help people lose weight. During the procedure, a large portion of the stomach is removed, leaving behind a smaller, tube-like stomach. This reduced size limits the amount of food you can eat and helps you feel full more quickly, leading to long-term weight loss.

What Does A Gastric Surgery Do?

The surgery works by restricting the amount of food your stomach can hold. It also impacts gut hormones that regulate hunger and metabolism, making it easier to manage your appetite and maintain weight loss over time. Many patients also notice improvements in health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.

Risk And Benefit Of Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Benefits

  • Significant Weight Loss: Most people lose 60-70 50-60% of their excess weight within the first 1-2 years.
  • Health Improvements: Conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes,hypertension  and joint pain often improve or even disappear.
  • Improved Quality of Life: Increased energy, mobility, and mental well-being are common outcomes.

Risks

  • Surgical Complications: Like any surgery, there’s a risk of infection, bleeding, or complications from anesthesia.
  • Nutritional Deficiencies: Since your stomach is smaller, you might not absorb nutrients as efficiently, requiring lifelong vitamin supplements.
  • Acid Reflux: Some people experience gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) after the surgery but can be managed with medication if happens at all

What are the Advantages of This Procedure?

  • Minimally Invasive: Gastric sleeve surgery is often done using laparoscopic techniques, meaning smaller incisions, less pain, and quicker recovery times.
  • No Foreign Objects: Unlike other bariatric procedures like gastric banding, this surgery doesn’t involve implants or devices.
  • Hormonal Changes: By reducing hunger hormones like ghrelin, it helps you feel less hungry.

What are the Possible Risks or Complications of Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

While complications are rare, they can happen( can be avoided by choosing expert dedicated bariatric surgeon) . Possible issues include:

  • Leaks along the staple line in your stomach
  • Blood clots
  • Narrowing or blockage in the stomach
  • Persistent nausea or vomiting

What is the Recovery Time from Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Most people recover from gastric sleeve surgery within 2-3 weeks. You can usually return to light activities within a week, but full recovery and adjusting to your new lifestyle might take a few weeks. Following your doctor’s post-op instructions is key to a smooth recovery.

What Qualifies You for Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

You may be eligible for gastric sleeve surgery if:

  • Your Body Mass Index (BMI) is 40 or higher, or 35+ with obesity-related health problems.

  • You’ve tried to lose weight through diet and exercise but haven’t succeeded.

     

  • You’re committed to making long-term changes to your diet and lifestyle.

Conclusion

Gastric sleeve surgery is a powerful tool for weight loss and improving your health. While it’s not without risks, the potential benefits—including better health, more energy, and a higher quality of life—often make it worthwhile. If you think this procedure could be right for you, talk to a qualified healthcare provider to discuss your options.

Check what all is included and not included in the package.

  • Pre-Operative Anaesthesia consultation, blood, and other investigations.
  • Fees of the surgeon
  • Operation charges
  • Doctor Consultation charges
  • Medication used during and post-procedure
  • Routine laboratory testing.
  • Medical Imaging / Radiology
  • Routine Medical consumables & Implants
  • Follow up periodic for 1 to 2 years by dietician/surgeon
  • Any type of therapy, investigation, or procedures apart from those mentioned above will be charged separately.

    After Discharge, medication will be charged separately.

Your Insurance companies might cover this procedure ( please check with your provider); otherwise, the cost will vary from AED 35,000 AED to 40000 AED as per cases.

FAQ

1. What happens before gastric sleeve surgery? 

Before surgery, you’ll go through a comprehensive medical evaluation, which might include blood tests, imaging, and consultations with specialists like a dietitian. A pre-surgery diet is often required to shrink the liver and prepare your body for the operation.

2. How is gastric sleeve surgery performed? 

The surgery is typically done laparoscopically. The surgeon makes small incisions in your abdomen, removes a large part of your stomach, and reshapes the remaining portion into a sleeve.

3. What happens during gastric sleeve surgery? 

During the procedure, about 75-80% of your stomach is removed. This leaves you with a smaller, banana-shaped stomach that can hold much less food.

4. How long does gastric sleeve surgery take? 

The surgery usually takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the specifics of your case and the surgeon’s technique.

5. What happens after gastric sleeve surgery? 

After surgery, you’ll stay in the hospital for a day or two for monitoring. Once you’re home, you’ll gradually return to normal activities and follow a specific post-op diet plan.

6. Will I have to follow a diet after gastric sleeve surgery? 

Yes. You’ll start with liquids immediately after surgery, then progress to pureed and soft foods before transitioning to a long-term healthy eating plan. Lifelong dietary changes and portion control are essential to maintaining your weight loss.

By knowing what to expect and committing to the necessary lifestyle changes, you can make the most of your gastric sleeve surgery journey.

Here is a video explaining the sleeve gastrectomy in brief: