Considering gastric sleeve surgery in Sydney? You're not alone. Sleeve gastrectomy is a popular, safe, and effective weight loss option for people struggling with obesity. This page provides a clear and comprehensive overview of the procedure, how it works, and what to expect before and after surgery.
If you're thinking about weight loss surgery, gastric sleeve surgery (also known as sleeve gastrectomy) is one of the most effective and widely performed procedures in Australia. At Southwest Bariatrics, we’ve been performing sleeve gastrectomy since we began in 2011 and have completed more than 3,000 successful operations. Our team supports you every step of the way, from your first consultation through surgery and long-term follow-up care.
We’ve included links to helpful articles that explore each part of the journey in more depth.
What Is Sleeve Gastrectomy?
Sleeve gastrectomy is a minimally invasive weight loss procedure performed using keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery. During the operation, about 80% of the stomach is removed, leaving behind a long, narrow tube or "sleeve." This significantly reduces the amount of food you can eat and helps you feel full sooner.
The surgery also reduces hunger by lowering levels of the hormone ghrelin, which is produced in the part of the stomach that is removed. Patients typically lose a significant amount of weight and see improvements in health conditions like type 2 diabetes, sleep apnoea, high blood pressure, and joint pain.
You can read more about what sleeve gastrectomy is and how it works.
How Does Sleeve Gastrectomy Work?
Sleeve gastrectomy works in multiple ways. It is not just about reducing the size of the stomach. The surgery affects your hormones, appetite, and gut-brain signaling in powerful ways.
- The part of the stomach removed produces ghrelin, the hormone that makes you feel hungry. With less ghrelin, your appetite naturally reduces.
- Changes in gut hormone levels after the operation improve blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity.
- The smaller stomach capacity means you eat less, feel full sooner, and stay full longer.
Learn how sleeve gastrectomy leads to weight loss.
The Operation: What to Expect
Gastric sleeve surgery is performed under general anaesthesia and usually takes about one hour. It’s done laparoscopically, using small incisions, which helps reduce pain and speeds up recovery.
Most patients stay in hospital for two nights and return to light duties within two weeks. We will guide you through your hospital stay, recovery plan, and long-term support.
After surgery, your diet progresses in stages to allow your stomach to heal:
- Phase I – Free fluids after gastric sleeve surgery
- Phase II – Puree diet following sleeve gastrectomy
- Phase III – Soft diet after gastric sleeve surgery
- Phase IV – Returning to a normal diet after sleeve gastrectomy
You can learn about the surgical steps involved in sleeve gastrectomy or watch our sleeve gastrectomy animation.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s normal to have questions about life before and after surgery. Our gastric sleeve FAQ page answers the most common queries about recovery, weight loss, food, supplements, and more.
Risks and Complications
While sleeve gastrectomy is a safe and well-established procedure, like all operations it carries some risks. These include bleeding, leaks from the staple line, and narrowing (stricture) of the sleeve. These complications are rare and usually treatable when identified early.
Our team provides clear pre-operative education and close follow-up to reduce your risk and help you feel confident going into surgery. We focus on early detection and prevention, along with patient education, to minimise your risk. You can read more about the risks and complications of sleeve gastrectomy here.
Sleeve Gastrectomy and Acid Reflux
Some patients may develop or worsen reflux after sleeve surgery, while others notice an improvement. Whether reflux improves or worsens depends on your anatomy and pre-existing symptoms. Learn more about sleeve gastrectomy and acid reflux.
Am I a Candidate for Gastric Sleeve?
Gastric sleeve surgery is a proven and effective treatment for individuals living with obesity, particularly when traditional weight loss methods have not yielded lasting results. According to the 2022 ASMBS/IFSO guidelines, you may be a suitable candidate for sleeve gastrectomy if:
- Your BMI is 35 or higher, regardless of the presence or absence of obesity-related health conditions
- Your BMI is between 30 and 34.9 and you have metabolic disease, such as type 2 diabetes, or have not achieved substantial or durable weight loss through non-surgical methods
- You are from an Asian background and have a BMI of 27.5 or higher, recognising that obesity-related health risks occur at lower BMI thresholds in this population
Surgery may not be appropriate if you have untreated mental health conditions, substance use problems, or severe heart or lung disease. A full evaluation helps ensure surgery is safe and effective for you. Check the eligibility criteria for obesity surgery.
Gastric Sleeve vs Gastric Bypass
While the gastric sleeve is the most common operation in Australia, gastric bypass may be a better choice for some people, especially those with severe reflux, uncontrolled diabetes, or a history of other weight loss procedures.
Bypass and sleeve work differently in how they affect digestion, hormone levels, and long-term weight loss. It’s important to choose the option that best matches your health goals and medical background. Compare gastric sleeve and gastric bypass surgery here.
Start Your Journey With Us
If you're ready to take the next step toward better health, our experienced team is here to help. At Southwest Bariatrics, you can choose to see either Dr Ali Zarrouk or Dr Rachel Kirby for your consultation. We’ll guide you through every stage of care including surgery, diet, lifestyle changes, and lifelong follow-up.
Consultations are available in both Campbelltown and Gregory Hills.
Joining one of our free weight loss surgery seminars is also a great way to learn more and take the first step in your journey.
