What is Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy?

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is a minimally invasive weight loss surgery in which the surgeon permanently removes approximately 75 to 80 percent of the stomach, leaving behind a narrow, sleeve-shaped tube roughly the size and shape of a banana. The procedure works primarily by restricting how much food the stomach can hold, while also producing important hormonal changes that reduce hunger and support long-term weight loss.

During this procedure, the surgeon:

• Makes several small incisions in the abdomen and inserts a laparoscope (a thin camera) and specialised surgical instruments.
• Divides and removes the larger, outer portion of the stomach using a surgical stapler.
• Leaves a narrow gastric sleeve in place, which significantly limits the amount of food you can eat at one time.
• Removes the part of the stomach that produces the majority of ghrelin — the hormone that stimulates hunger — which helps to reduce appetite after surgery.

Unlike gastric bypass surgery, sleeve gastrectomy does not reroute or bypass any part of the intestine, so the digestive process remains largely unchanged. Food still passes through the digestive tract in the normal order — just through a much smaller stomach.

Making the decision to have weight loss surgery is significant and deeply personal. It is completely natural to feel a mixture of hope and anxiety. Your doctor and care team will take the time to understand your individual situation, answer all of your questions, and support you at every stage of your journey.

When would I need laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy?

Your doctor may recommend sleeve gastrectomy if you are significantly overweight and have not been able to achieve or sustain meaningful weight loss through diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes alone. This surgery is generally considered for:

• Adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or above.
• Adults with a BMI of 35 or above who also have one or more serious obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, obstructive sleep apnea, high cholesterol, or severe joint disease.
• Patients who prefer a procedure that does not reroute the intestines or involve a foreign implant, and who want a simpler anatomical change compared to gastric bypass.
• Patients with certain medical conditions that make gastric bypass unsuitable, such as a high risk of complications from intestinal rerouting.
• Patients who are committed to making lasting dietary and lifestyle changes to support long-term weight loss after surgery.

What happens before the surgery?

If your doctor recommends sleeve gastrectomy, they will explain how it fits into your broader weight management plan. Surgery works best when supported by dietary guidance, behavioural changes, and regular long-term follow-up. Before proceeding, you will be assessed by a multidisciplinary team to ensure you are well prepared.

Before surgery, you will typically be asked to undergo:

• Comprehensive blood tests and a full health assessment to evaluate your fitness for surgery and anesthesia.
• Cardiac and respiratory evaluation if required, based on your current health conditions.
• An upper gastrointestinal endoscopy to examine your stomach and oesophagus and screen for any conditions such as hiatus hernia or ulcers before surgery.
• Nutritional counselling to prepare you for the significant dietary changes required after the procedure.
• A psychological evaluation to assess your readiness, identify any disordered eating behaviours, and ensure you have realistic expectations about the outcome.
• A supervised pre-operative low-calorie or liquid diet, typically starting two weeks before surgery, to shrink the liver and improve surgical safety and access.

What do I need to do to get ready?

To prepare for surgery, your doctor might ask you to:

• Stop smoking at least four to six weeks before surgery, as smoking significantly increases the risk of complications including poor wound healing, staple line leaks, and respiratory problems.
• Avoid alcohol in the weeks leading up to the procedure.
• Stop taking certain medications such as blood thinners, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and some diabetes medications as advised by your doctor in the days before surgery.
• Follow the prescribed pre-operative liquid or very-low-calorie diet strictly as instructed by your care team.
• Stop eating and drinking for at least eight hours before the procedure.
• Arrange for someone to drive you home and help you with daily tasks during the first week or two of recovery.

What happens during laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy?

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia so you will be completely asleep and feel no pain. The steps of the procedure typically include:

• The surgeon makes four to six small incisions in the abdomen.
• A laparoscope and surgical instruments are inserted through the incisions. The abdomen is gently inflated with carbon dioxide gas to create working space.
• A thin calibration tube is passed down the oesophagus into the stomach to guide the surgeon in creating the correct size and shape of the sleeve.
• The surgeon uses a surgical stapler to divide the stomach vertically, separating the larger outer portion from the narrow sleeve that will remain.
• The removed portion of the stomach is taken out through one of the incisions.
• The staple line is checked for leaks and may be reinforced with sutures or a sealant for added security.
• The instruments are removed, the gas is released, and the incisions are closed with stitches.

How long does the surgery take?

The operation typically takes one to one and a half hours. Most patients stay in hospital for one to two nights after surgery. Your doctor will give you a more specific estimate based on your individual health status and the complexity of your procedure.

What are the pros and cons of this surgery?

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is one of the most performed bariatric procedures worldwide, with a well-established safety profile and strong results. Patients typically lose 60 to 70 percent of their excess body weight over 12 to 18 months. The reduction in ghrelin levels after surgery helps to naturally suppress appetite, making it easier to eat less without feeling constantly hungry. Many patients see significant improvement or resolution of obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and joint pain.

However, there are important risks and long-term considerations to understand:

• Staple line leak: A small but serious risk where the surgical staple line does not seal properly, allowing stomach contents to leak into the abdominal cavity. This requires prompt medical treatment.
• Acid reflux (GERD): Some patients develop new or worsened gastro-oesophageal reflux disease after sleeve gastrectomy. Patients with pre-existing severe reflux may be better suited to gastric bypass.
• Irreversibility: Unlike the gastric band, the removed portion of the stomach cannot be put back. The procedure is permanent.
• Nutritional deficiencies: Although less common than after gastric bypass, deficiencies in vitamin B12, iron, vitamin D, and calcium can occur and may require supplementation.
• Stricture or narrowing: Scar tissue can occasionally cause narrowing of the sleeve, leading to difficulty swallowing or vomiting.
• Weight regain: Without sustained dietary discipline and lifestyle changes, some patients may regain weight over time, particularly if snacking habits are not addressed.

What happens right after the surgery?

After surgery, you will be monitored in the recovery area and then moved to a ward. The nursing team will manage your pain, check your incision sites, and encourage you to begin moving and walking as soon as it is safely possible — usually within the first day. You will start with small sips of water before progressing to clear fluids. Before going home, the team will provide clear instructions on wound care, medications, dietary progression, and warning signs to watch for.

What does recovery feel like?

Recovery from laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is generally well tolerated, though it requires patience and close adherence to the post-operative guidelines provided by your care team. Here is what to expect at each stage:

• Days 1–7: Rest at home, take prescribed pain relief and medications, and follow a strict clear liquid diet. Short, gentle walks are encouraged to prevent blood clots and aid recovery.
• Weeks 2–4: Progress through the staged dietary plan from full liquids to pureed foods as instructed by your dietitian. Some fatigue and mild discomfort around the incision sites is normal. Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting.
• Weeks 4–6: Transition to soft and then solid foods. Energy levels begin to improve, and most patients feel ready to return to light daily activities and desk-based work.
• Months 3–12: Weight loss is typically most rapid during this period. Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon, dietitian, and GP are essential to monitor your progress and check your nutritional blood levels.
• Long term: Ongoing dietary discipline, regular physical activity, and annual nutritional blood tests are important for maintaining weight loss and overall health. Vitamin and mineral supplementation may be recommended based on your blood results.

You will need to eat very small portions, chew food thoroughly, eat slowly, and avoid drinking fluids during meals. Your dietitian will support and guide you through every stage of this dietary transition.

When should I call my doctor?

You will have regular scheduled follow-up appointments, but you should contact your doctor immediately if you notice:

• Severe or worsening abdominal pain, particularly if it is sudden or spreads to your shoulder.
• A fever above 38°C (100.4°F).
• Persistent vomiting or an inability to keep any fluids down.
• Redness, swelling, discharge, or increasing pain around any of the incision sites.
• Rapid heart rate, dizziness, or fainting.
• Difficulty swallowing or a persistent sensation of food or liquid getting stuck.
• Persistent heartburn or acid reflux that is not relieved by medication.
• Shortness of breath, chest pain, or swelling and pain in the leg, which may suggest a blood clot.

The changes that follow sleeve gastrectomy — to your body, your relationship with food, and your daily routines — can bring up complex emotions. If you feel anxious, overwhelmed, or are struggling emotionally at any point during your journey, please speak with your care team. Psychological support is an important part of your long-term success, and help is always available.

Why choose Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital for Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy in Lucknow, India?

Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital is one of the best hospitals for laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy in Lucknow, India. Our highly experienced bariatric surgeons and dedicated multidisciplinary team — comprising dietitians, psychologists, endocrinologists, and specialist nurses — use advanced minimally invasive techniques to deliver safe, effective, and long-lasting weight loss results. We provide thorough pre-operative evaluation, personalised surgical planning, and comprehensive post-operative care including long-term nutritional monitoring and dietary support. With expert bariatric care and affordable pricing, our Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy surgery cost is suitable for patients seeking high-quality, results-driven weight loss treatment in Lucknow, India.

To seek an Expert Consultation for Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy in Lucknow, India:

Call us at +91-9076972161
Email at care@tenderpalm.com

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