The Sleeve Gastrectomy procedure removes part of the stomach, leaving a narrow, tube-shaped “sleeve” that restricts the amount of food you can eat. Performed laparoscopically using small incisions, it also reduces the production of hunger hormones, which helps decrease appetite. The surgery is permanent and leads to long-term weight loss by limiting food intake and reducing hunger, though it doesn’t alter the intestinal anatomy or nutrient absorption significantly.

Dr. Machado learned her technique from one of the most experienced Sleeve surgeons in the country to assure her patients receive the best surgery possible with the lowest postoperative risks.

To learn more, join Dr. Machado for a free informational webinar or call our office at 916-338-7200.

Sleeve Gastrectomy provides:

Restriction of meal size

Reduction of the stomach's volume to a small, banana-sized pouch increases feelings of fullness and reduces overall calorie intake.

Decreased hunger and cravings

A smaller stomach pouch and lower production of hunger producing hormones increases feelings of fullness (satiety).

Surgery is isolated to the stomach

The procedure does not involve rerouting or bypassing any part of the intestines; only the stomach is isolated, not the entire digestive system.

Additional Details

The Laparoscopic Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy – often called the sleeve – is performed by removing approximately 80-85 percent of the stomach. The remaining stomach is a long, narrow tubular pouch that significantly reduces the volume of food that can be consumed, while still allowing the stomach to function normally.

This procedure works by several mechanisms. First, the new stomach pouch holds a considerably smaller volume than the normal stomach and helps to significantly reduce the amount of food (and thus calories) that can be consumed. The greater impact, however, seems to be the effect the surgery has on gut hormones that affect hunger, satiety, and blood sugar control. The part of the stomach that is removed drastically reduces the production of Ghrelin, one of the major hunger hormones.

Short term studies show that the sleeve may approach the gastric bypass in terms of weight loss and improvement or remission of diabetes. However, there is great variability in how this procedure is performed and it can be associated with a higher risk of healing complications. Although the procedure appears relatively simple, there are a number of complex factors involved to perform this procedure effectively and safely.

Dr. Machado has helped patients achieve success with all of the procedures.

Dr. Machado is a very experienced bariatric surgeon who approaches each patient individually. Not every patient is the same, and therefore not a single procedure is the best for everyone.

It is important to approach the decision process with an open mind and understand what tool you require to help you achieve your health and weight loss goals.

Advantages:

  • Restricts the amount of food the stomach can hold
  • Induces rapid, significant weight loss comparable to gastric bypass
  • Changes gut hormones that suppress hunger, reduce appetite, and improve satiety
  • No dumping syndrome because the pylorus is preserved
  • Minimizes ulcer risk, allowing safe use of anti-inflammatory drugs (aspirin, Motrin, Aleve, ibuprofen) – ideal for patients with arthritis, joint pain, or migraines
  • No intestinal bypass, so minimal risk of nutritional or vitamin deficiencies
  • Most patients with BMI 35-50 kg/M² reach goal weight within 12 months

Disadvantages:

  • Is a non-reversible procedure
  • Has the potential for long-term vitamin deficiencies
  • Has a higher early complication rate

You are invited to join Dr. Machado for a free informational webinar!

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