In a fast-paced world where life never slows down and our bodies are constantly under pressure, morbid obesity emerges as a silent enemy one that drains health and limits mobility. Obesity isn’t just excess weight; it’s a chronic disease linked to multiple complications, ranging from type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases to high blood pressure and sleep apnea. Amid these challenges, hope shines through with Sleeve Gastrectomy, a procedure that not only reduces the size of the stomach but also helps restore hormonal and metabolic balance.

With TMC by your side every step of the way, your treatment journey begins with comprehensive care from diagnosis to follow-up making obesity not the end, but the beginning of a healthier, more active life.

Definition of Gastric Sleeve and Its Modern Surgical Technique

Gastric sleeve surgery is a minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure during which 75–80% of the stomach is removed longitudinally, leaving a narrow tube or “sleeve” that restricts food intake. This significantly reduces the stomach’s storage capacity, limiting the amount of food that can be consumed, thereby lowering calorie intake. More importantly, the removed portion contains cells that produce ghrelin, the hormone responsible for stimulating appetite leading to a natural reduction in hunger.

This surgery has evolved over the past two decades and is now primarily performed via laparoscopic methods, which require smaller incisions, result in less pain and lower risks, and allow for faster recovery.

Physiological and Hormonal Changes After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

After the procedure, several important hormonal shifts occur that support weight loss and overall health improvement:

• Ghrelin Hormone: Its secretion is greatly reduced due to the removal of the stomach section responsible for its production, leading to decreased hunger.
• Satiety Hormones: Levels of these hormones increase post-surgery, enhancing the feeling of fullness and reducing food intake.
• Improved Insulin Sensitivity: These hormonal changes help regulate blood sugar levels and can significantly improve or even resolve type 2 diabetes.
• Changes in Gut Microbiota: The composition of gut bacteria shifts, positively influencing metabolism and digestive health.

These hormonal effects, alongside reduced stomach capacity, make gastric sleeve surgery highly effective in treating obesity and its associated conditions.

Eligibility Criteria for Gastric Sleeve Surgery

This surgery isn’t performed on just anyone with excess weight. Specific criteria must be met to ensure safety and success:

• Body Mass Index (BMI):
  • A BMI of ≥ 40 (morbid obesity) strongly indicates the need for surgery.
  • A BMI between 35–39.9 with associated conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, or heart disease also qualifies.
• Failure to Lose Weight Through Conventional Methods: Including diet and exercise.
• Psychological Readiness: A psychological evaluation is essential to assess the patient’s ability to adapt to post-surgical lifestyle changes.
• Absence of Medical Contraindications: Such as unstable chronic diseases, bleeding disorders, or severe psychiatric illness.
• Commitment to a Healthy Lifestyle: Willingness to adopt a consistent diet and exercise regimen.

Patient Preparation Before Surgery

Prior to the procedure, patients undergo various tests and assessments to ensure full readiness:

• Comprehensive Blood Tests: Including complete blood count, liver and kidney functions, coagulation profile, and blood sugar levels.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG): To ensure heart health and anesthesia safety.
• Respiratory Evaluation: Especially for patients with asthma or sleep apnea.
• Psychological Assessment: Sessions with a psychologist to assess mental readiness and identify any conditions that could affect compliance.
• Medical Education: Full explanation of the procedure, risks, benefits, and recovery requirements to help the patient make an informed decision.
• Physical Preparation: Guidelines for pre-op fasting, quitting smoking, and discontinuing certain medications.

Surgical Procedure Steps

The operation is carried out under general anesthesia and includes the following stages:

• General Anesthesia: Ensures the patient feels no pain during the procedure.
• Small Incisions (Ports): Typically 4–5 small cuts are made in the abdomen to insert a camera and surgical instruments.
• Stomach Resection: Using a stapling device, 75–80% of the stomach is removed to create a sleeve-shaped tube.
• Leak Test: A dye is introduced to check for any leaks in the staple line.
• Closure of Incisions: The cuts are sealed with absorbable sutures.
• Duration: The surgery usually takes 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the patient’s condition.
• Hospital Stay: Patients remain under observation for 1–2 days post-surgery.

Mechanisms of Weight Loss and Health Improvements Post-Surgery

Following gastric sleeve surgery, the body loses weight through several interconnected mechanisms:

• Mechanical Restriction: The smaller stomach limits food intake, leading to reduced calorie consumption.
• Hormonal Changes: Reduced ghrelin lowers appetite, while increased satiety hormones like GLP-1 and PYY promote fullness.
• Enhanced Metabolism: Improved insulin sensitivity helps regulate glucose, aiding those with diabetes.
• Behavioral Shifts: Patients become more mindful of their eating habits and less prone to overeating.
• Overall Health Benefits: Weight loss eases the burden on the heart and lungs, improves blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and reduces joint pain.
• Impact on Comorbid Conditions: Many patients experience improvement or remission of type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, and fatty liver disease.

Post-Surgery Diet Plan

A carefully structured diet is crucial to maintaining results and avoiding complications:

• Week 1: Only clear fluids like water, herbal tea, and light broth.
• Week 2: Full liquids rich in protein, such as skimmed milk or protein shakes.
• Weeks 3–4: Soft, pureed foods like mashed vegetables and fruits.
• After 1 Month: Soft foods such as boiled eggs, yogurt, and well-cooked chicken.
• After 2–3 Months: Gradual return to normal foods, with an emphasis on chewing thoroughly.

Key Tips:

• Eat 5–6 small meals daily.
• Prioritize protein for muscle support and healing.
• Avoid sugars and saturated fats.
• Drink plenty of water between meals.
• Take vitamin and mineral supplements

Impact on Psychological and Social Quality of Life

Gastric sleeve surgery profoundly affects not only physical health but also mental and social well-being:

• Boosted Confidence: Weight loss and improved appearance enhance self-esteem and reduce anxiety and frustration.
• Better Social Engagement: Patients become more active and socially involved, strengthening support networks.
• Improved Marital Relationships: Weight loss enhances sexual health and satisfaction, positively impacting marriage.
• Reduced Depression and Anxiety: Studies show significant psychological improvement following substantial weight loss.
• New Lifestyle Opportunities: Increased ability to exercise and enjoy hobbies opens doors to a healthier, more joyful life.

Complementary and Advanced Surgical Techniques

In some cases, gastric sleeve surgery is part of a broader treatment plan:

• Adjunctive Medications: Used to help control appetite or improve metabolism alongside surgery.
• Additional Surgeries: Such as skin tightening procedures after significant weight loss.

TMC’s Role in Your Gastric Sleeve Journey

TMC isn’t just a medical tourism coordinator it’s your partner in achieving lasting results and reclaiming your life:

• Integrated Medical Coordination: TMC connects you with top specialists and state-of-the-art facilities.
• Hassle-Free Procedures: From obtaining a medical visa to scheduling tests, consultations, flights, and luxury hotel stays near the hospital.
• Psychological and Physical Support: TMC provides pre- and post-operative psychological counseling and remote medical follow-up.
• Exceptional Treatment Experience: Blending expert care with genuine Egyptian hospitality, TMC also arranges personalized tours to ease stress.
• Ongoing Follow-Up: Even after leaving Egypt, TMC ensures you receive continuous care and support through modern communication channels.

How to Contact TMC

If you’re ready to begin your gastric sleeve journey, reach out to TMC for a smooth and supportive experience:

• Phone: +201101000733
• Email: info@tmc.eg

Don’t let obesity steal your life start today and give yourself a new chance. Your healthy future begins now, and with TMC by your side, hope becomes reality.