The gastric sleeve or Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG) involves the removal of a large portion of the stomach, leaving a sleeve-shaped stomach. This surgery is purely restrictive, meaning it reduces the stomach’s size to limit food intake. It’s highly effective for weight loss and requires fewer alterations to the digestive system than the gastric bypass.

A bariatric surgeon specializes in performing weight-loss surgeries like gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and gastric banding. These surgeons are trained in both traditional open surgery and minimally invasive techniques such as laparoscopy. They also provide guidance on pre- and post-operative care to ensure the success of the weight-loss procedure and minimize complications.

A bowel specialist, or gastroenterologist, diagnoses and treats diseases of the digestive tract, including the stomach, intestines, and colon. Common conditions treated include IBS, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and colon cancer.

Sleeve banding combines two bariatric procedures: the gastric sleeve and an adjustable gastric band. It is a less common technique used to enhance the weight-loss results of the sleeve by adding additional restriction through the band. However, complications from the band have made it less favorable in recent years.

You'll eat a soft diet between weeks three and four after surgery. During this phase, you'll continue to prioritize protein, but you'll be able to get the nutrient from foods including scrambled eggs, hummus, and tuna/chicken salad with low fat mayo. In addition, avoid the ancillary foods that can be even worse than the fast-food entrée itself. Sodas, french fries, other fried sides and even salad dressings can all contain tons of fat, sugar and ultimately calories The primary benefit of the mini gastric bypass is... +More