Gastric Sleeve

Sleeve Gastrectomy (Gastric Sleeve)

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Definition

What is a Gastric Sleeve?

Surgeons perform laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy by removing approximately 75-80 percent of the stomach. Many surgeons and physicians use the term “sleeve gastrectomy,” though most patients are familiar with the term “gastric sleeve,” which is easier to remember. At the UCLA Center for Obesity and METabolic (COMET) Health, we offer the latest surgical weight loss treatments for Southern California, including the vertical sleeve gastrectomy.

Kallista's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*

Gastric Sleeve
I am forever grateful for my experience at UCLA. 
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Sheena's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*

Gastric Sleeve
If I had to do it all over again, I would do it in a heartbeat.
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Sarah's Story - Weight Loss Surgery: Gastric Sleeve*

Gastric Sleeve
I truly feel like I got another chance at life!
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Gastric Sleeve Illustrations >

They are the same operation, and they leave the remaining stomach as a tubular pouch that resembles a banana. The Sleeve gastrectomy is a relatively new procedure but has gained popularity because of its low complication rate and good weight loss results.

Almost 42 percent of all bariatric surgeries performed in the United States in 2013 were sleeve gastrectomies, which makes it the most popular weight loss surgery, according to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery.

How Does Sleeve Gastrectomy Work?

The Sleeve Gastrectomy aids in weight loss for a number of reasons, including:

• The new stomach pouch holds considerably less than the normal stomach and helps to reduce the amount of food you can eat in one sitting comfortably. The food also moves faster in the new stomach pouch.
• There is a significant effect on gut hormones that help you feel less hungry and fuller longer.

Research demonstrates that sleeve gastrectomy is as effective as Roux-en-y gastric bypass, and its benefits include:

• Similar weight loss to Roux-en-y gastric bypass
• Similar reversal of obesity-related health problems, including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, fatty liver disease and sleep apnea, as Roux-en-y
• Lower complication rates than Roux-en-y
• Relatively short hospital stay of approximately one or two days
• Lower chance of nutrient deficiency

Sleeve Gastrectomy Video:

It’s important to note that sleeve gastrectomy is a nonreversible procedure, and some patients may experience treatable heart burn after surgery.

Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy

Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy Expertise

We offer a superior level of expertise and skill in vertical gastric sleeve procedures. At Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, where our bariatric surgeries are performed, we are the No. 1 ranked hospital in California and in the Los Angeles metro area according to U.S. News & World Report. We have also been ranked as the best hospital in the West for 15 years and counting. We offer:

• Low complication rates: Our special technique for performing these surgeries gives us a more accurate representation of the final sleeve size before we create it. This minimizes the risk for a sleeve that is too narrow, which can lead to leaks. None of our patients has ever experienced a leak.
• Access to promising new research: Our specialists are harnessing the power of up-to-the-minute science to predict who will benefit the most from available weight loss treatments. This gives our patients the opportunity to participate in research trials on new approaches and treatments for obesity not commonly available in the U.S.
• Sleeve gastrectomy specialists: We bring the highest level of experience and expertise to these procedures. Because of this, we are commonly sought out by patients to fix sleeve gastrectomies they’ve had done at other hospitals.
• Advanced technology: We offer the latest operating room technology, including da Vinci® Robotic surgical systems and fully digital operating suites.

Contact Us

To schedule a consultation with UCLA Bariatric Surgery in Los Angeles, California, call us at (310) 825-7163 or
fill out our online form >

For a physician referral, please call (800) UCLA-MD1 (825-2631).

*Weight loss results can vary depending on the individual. There is no guarantee of specific results. Read full disclaimer >