One of the most commonly used methods for obesity treatment is gastric sleeve surgery (also known as sleeve gastrectomy). This surgery is performed by removing approximately 75–80% of the stomach. As a result, the stomach volume is reduced and appetite hormones are secreted at lower levels. But is this surgery suitable for everyone? Who is a suitable candidate for gastric sleeve surgery? Let’s explore the answer together.
Gastric sleeve surgery is a procedure in which the stomach is reduced into a tube-like shape. Thanks to the smaller stomach volume, patients feel full with less food, aiming for long-term and permanent weight loss. After surgery, changes in eating habits and lifestyle adjustments are extremely important.
Gastric sleeve surgery is generally suitable for individuals who meet the following criteria:
Individuals with a BMI of 40 or higher
Individuals with a BMI between 35 and 40 who also suffer from obesity-related conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea
For people who have tried diet and exercise for a long time without achieving permanent weight loss, gastric sleeve surgery may be an effective option.
Patients experiencing conditions such as:
Type 2 diabetes
High blood pressure
Joint pain
Shortness of breath
Sleep apnea
may benefit significantly from the surgery.
Gastric sleeve surgery requires not only physical but also psychological readiness. It is suitable for individuals who can comply with post-operative dietary rules and are willing to change their lifestyle.
The generally accepted age range for surgery is between 18 and 65. However, these limits may be evaluated by the doctor depending on the patient’s overall health condition.
Not every patient is suitable for gastric sleeve surgery.
The surgery may not be recommended in the following cases:
Uncontrolled psychiatric disorders
Alcohol or substance addiction
Serious hormonal causes of weight gain
Individuals unable to comply with post-operative rules
Before the surgery, evaluations are conducted by specialists in:
Internal medicine
Cardiology
Endocrinology
Psychology
This process is crucial to determine whether the patient is suitable for surgery.
When performed on the right candidates, gastric sleeve surgery is an effective and safe method in the treatment of obesity. However, it may not be suitable for everyone. Therefore, the decision should always be made after a detailed evaluation by a specialist physician.