Sleeve Gastrectomy at WIH International Hospital

Struggling with persistent excess weight can impact every facet of your life – from daily activities to overall health and confidence. If traditional methods haven’t brought the lasting change you seek, gastric sleeve weight loss surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, might be the life-changing solution you’ve been searching for. At WIH Hospital Bangkok, we understand that this is a profound step towards a healthier, more vibrant future. Let’s explore how this powerful bariatric surgery can help you achieve your weight loss goals effectively and safely.

What is a Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy)?

Sleeve gastrectomy, also known as gastric sleeve surgery, is a minimally invasive bariatric procedure that helps individuals achieve sustainable weight loss. During this gastric sleeve operation, approximately 75-80% of the stomach is removed, leaving a banana-shaped section. This significantly reduces the amount of food you can eat at one time, and it also impacts hunger-producing hormones, helping you feel satisfied with smaller portions. It’s a powerful tool designed to support a substantial and sustainable gastric sleeve for weight loss.

Is Gastric Sleeve Weight Loss Surgery Right for You?

Deciding on gastric sleeve weight loss surgery is a personal and significant choice. It’s typically considered for individuals who have:

📊 A Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher (severe obesity).

📊 A BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions (e.g., type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, severe joint pain).

📊 Tried other supervised weight loss methods without long-term success.

📊 A commitment to long-term lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise.

Pre-operative and Post-operative Care

Pre-operative Care

Follow fasting instructions.

The surgeon will advise you on which medications to stop or adjust before surgery.

Stop smoking at least 4-6 weeks before surgery.

Post-operative Care

After surgery, the patients will be monitored closely in the recovery room as they wake up from anesthesia.

The patients will receive medication to manage any discomfort. Laparoscopic surgery generally results in less pain.

The patients will be encouraged to start walking as soon as possible to prevent blood clots and promote healing.

Our nursing staff will closely monitor your vital signs, incision sites, and overall recovery.

The patients will receive guidance from our dietitian on the progression of their diet.

The typical hospital stay for Gastric Sleeve surgery is 2-3 nights.

The Gastric Sleeve Procedure: What to Expect on Surgery Day

The gastric sleeve procedure is predominantly performed using a laparoscopic technique, which is a minimally invasive approach. This means the surgeon uses several small incisions (usually 4-5) rather than one large cut. Through these tiny openings, a slim camera (laparoscope) and specialized surgical instruments are inserted.

Preparation: You’ll receive general anesthesia, so you’ll be asleep and comfortable throughout.

The Surgical Technique: Using the laparoscopic instruments, your surgeon carefully divides the stomach vertically, creating a narrow, tube-like “sleeve.” The larger, curved portion of the stomach is then permanently removed. The remaining sleeve is sealed with surgical staples, forming your new, smaller stomach pouch. This reduces the stomach’s capacity and also removes the part of the stomach responsible for producing ghrelin, the “hunger hormone.”

Duration: The operation usually takes 1-2 hours.

Hospital Stay: Patients typically stay at WIH Hospital for 2-3 days for initial monitoring and comfort.

This minimally invasive approach generally leads to less pain, smaller scars, and a faster initial recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

Gastric Sleeve Recovery Time & Life After Surgery

Your gastric sleeve recovery time is a journey, and our team will support you every step of the way.

Initial Recovery (Days 1-7): You’ll gradually progress from clear liquids to full liquids. Movement is encouraged to aid healing.

Weeks 2-4: Transition to soft, pureed foods as your body adjusts.

Months 1-6+: You’ll work closely with our dietitians to introduce solid foods and establish your gastric sleeve after surgery diet. This phase is crucial for long-term success.

Patients can typically return to light daily activities within a few weeks, with full recovery and return to normal exercise routines taking several months. The significant changes will be the rapid gastric sleeve weight loss and improved health conditions.

Your New Plate: Gastric Sleeve After Surgery Diet & Lifestyle

Life after a gastric sleeve for weight loss is about adopting new, healthier habits. Your gastric sleeve after surgery diet will be carefully structured:

Small Portions: Your new stomach can hold only a small amount of food.

High Protein Focus: Prioritizing protein is key to preserving muscle mass during rapid weight loss.

Hydration: Sipping fluids throughout the day is essential, but avoid drinking with meals.

Vitamin Supplements: You’ll need lifelong vitamin and mineral supplements to ensure proper nutrition.

Beyond diet, regular physical activity and ongoing support are vital. Our comprehensive program includes access to expert dietitians, nurses, and support groups to guide your new lifestyle.

Key Advantages of Sleeve Gastrectomy

Sleeve gastrectomy offers a multitude of benefits that extend far beyond just weight reduction. Choosing this gastric sleeve procedure can significantly enhance your health and quality of life.

Significant and Sustained Weight Loss:

Patients typically experience substantial and lasting weight loss, often shedding 60-70% of their excess weight. This leads to profound changes in body composition and appearance.

Dramatic Health Improvements:

One of the most powerful gastric sleeve advantages is the improvement or even complete resolution of obesity-related health conditions. This includes Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, high cholesterol, and joint pain.

Reduced Hunger & Cravings:

By removing the portion of the stomach that produces ghrelin (the hunger hormone), many patients report a significant decrease in appetite and cravings, making it easier to adhere to a healthier diet.

No Foreign Objects or Rerouting:

Unlike some other bariatric surgeries, the gastric sleeve operation does not involve implanting foreign devices (like a band) or rerouting your intestines, which can lead to fewer potential complications related to nutrient absorption.

Simpler Digestion:

The digestive tract remains intact, allowing for more normal digestion and absorption of nutrients compared to procedures that bypass parts of the small intestine.

Improved Mobility & Energy:

With less weight to carry, patients often experience increased energy levels, improved mobility, and the ability to participate in physical activities they once found challenging.

Enhanced Quality of Life:

Beyond physical changes, the benefits of gastric sleeve often include a significant boost in self-confidence, improved mental well-being, and a renewed zest for life.

These advantages highlight why sleeve gastrectomy is a transformative option for many seeking lasting health and weight management.

Why Choose WIH Hospital Bangkok for Your Gastric Sleeve Journey?

When considering gastric sleeve weight loss surgery in Thailand, WIH Hospital Bangkok stands out as a premier choice, offering a patient experience built on excellence and compassion.