Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
What Is Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy?
Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, commonly known as gastric sleeve surgery, is one of the most commonly performed bariatric procedures for long-term weight loss. The procedure involves removing a large portion of the stomach and creating a smaller, sleeve-shaped stomach that helps limit food intake and promotes earlier feelings of fullness.
Sleeve gastrectomy is designed to help patients achieve significant weight loss while also improving many obesity-related medical conditions. At Chicago Metabolic & Digestive Surgery Center, Dr. Jihad Kudsi provides advanced minimally invasive bariatric surgery using personalized treatment plans focused on long-term weight management and improved metabolic health.
How Sleeve Gastrectomy Works
During laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, approximately 75–80% of the stomach is removed, leaving behind a narrow sleeve-shaped stomach.
The procedure promotes weight loss by:
- Reducing the amount of food the stomach can hold
- Helping patients feel full sooner
- Decreasing hunger-related hormone production
- Supporting long-term portion control
- Improving metabolic function
Unlike gastric bypass surgery, sleeve gastrectomy does not reroute the intestines or significantly alter nutrient absorption.
Who May Be a Candidate for Sleeve Gastrectomy?
Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy may be considered for adults who:
- Have a BMI of 40 or greater
- Have a BMI of 35 or greater with obesity-related health conditions
- Have struggled with long-term weight loss through diet and exercise alone
- Are committed to lifestyle and dietary changes after surgery
- Are seeking a durable surgical weight loss solution
A comprehensive medical evaluation helps determine whether sleeve gastrectomy is the most appropriate bariatric procedure for an individual’s needs and health goals.
Benefits of Sleeve Gastrectomy
Sleeve gastrectomy has become a popular bariatric procedure because of its effectiveness and relatively straightforward surgical approach.
Potential benefits may include:
- Significant long-term weight loss
- Reduced hunger and appetite
- Improvement in obesity-related medical conditions
- Enhanced mobility and physical activity
- Improved quality of life
- No intestinal bypass
- Shorter operative time compared to some bariatric procedures
Many patients experience substantial weight loss within the first 12–18 months after surgery when combined with healthy lifestyle changes.
Conditions That May Improve After Weight Loss Surgery
Weight loss following sleeve gastrectomy may help improve:
- Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- High cholesterol
- Joint pain
- Fatty liver disease
- Metabolic syndrome
Improvement in these conditions may contribute to better overall health and reduced long-term medical risks.
Minimally Invasive Surgical Technique
Dr. Jihad Kudsi specializes in advanced laparoscopic and robotic bariatric surgery. Sleeve gastrectomy is typically performed using minimally invasive techniques through several small incisions.
Benefits of a laparoscopic approach may include:
- Smaller incisions
- Reduced postoperative discomfort
- Faster recovery
- Shorter hospital stay
- Reduced scarring
- Lower risk of wound complications
Advanced minimally invasive techniques allow many patients to return to daily activities sooner while promoting a smoother recovery process.
Recovery After Sleeve Gastrectomy
Recovery varies between patients, but most individuals are encouraged to begin walking shortly after surgery.
Following the procedure, patients typically progress through a structured dietary plan that includes:
- Clear liquids
- Full liquids
- Soft foods
- Gradual return to healthy solid foods
Long-term success depends on continued commitment to healthy eating habits, regular exercise, nutritional monitoring, and routine follow-up care.
Risks & Considerations
As with any surgical procedure, sleeve gastrectomy carries potential risks and complications, including:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Staple line leaks
- Acid reflux symptoms
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Narrowing of the sleeve
Careful patient evaluation, surgical expertise, and ongoing postoperative support help reduce risks and improve outcomes.
Comprehensive Bariatric & Weight Loss Care
Chicago Metabolic & Digestive Surgery Center is led by Dr. Jihad Kudsi, a nationally recognized bariatric and minimally invasive surgeon with extensive experience in metabolic surgery, robotic surgery, and complex digestive disorders. Dr. Kudsi provides individualized treatment plans designed to help patients achieve sustainable weight loss and long-term health improvement.
The practice offers advanced bariatric surgery and weight management solutions for patients throughout Chicago, Oak Brook, Burr Ridge, and surrounding communities using the latest minimally invasive and robotic surgical techniques.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are considering weight loss surgery and would like to learn whether laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy may be right for you, contact Chicago Metabolic & Digestive Surgery Center to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jihad Kudsi and explore your treatment options.
For in-depth information please visit Dr. Kudsi’s website: Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy




