The gastric sleeve, or sleeve gastrectomy, is a popular and effective weight loss surgery that involves reducing the stomach size to limit food intake. In this procedure, approximately 80% of the stomach is removed, transforming it into a tubular or sleeve-like structure. This not only helps with immediate weight loss but also contributes to significant changes in appetite-regulating hormones, resulting in reduced hunger and improved metabolic functions. Phoenix Health provides private gastric sleeve surgery in the UK, with treatment from experienced bariatric surgeons and a choice of aftercare options to support you before and after surgery.
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How Does Gastric Sleeve Surgery Work?
A gastric sleeve works by reducing the size of your stomach. This procedure is also sometimes referred to as a stomach sleeve gastrectomy. Naturally, the smaller the stomach you will have after the operation, the more it will decrease the portion size you can eat, as you’ll feel full very quickly and continue to feel full for several hours.
Besides helping you eat less due to the reduced stomach size, sleeve gastrectomy works by reducing your appetite. The removed part of your stomach produces a hormone called ‘ghrelin’. This hormone stimulates your appetite and makes you feel hungry. Taking out this part of your stomach will reduce your ghrelin hormone level and hence will reduce your hunger feeling. This added benefit will help you in losing weight after this procedure.
In the first 18 months following weight loss surgery, you can expect to lose an average of 66% of the extra weight you are carrying over and above a normal body weight (excess body weight). Individual weight loss varies depending on factors such as your starting weight, health, eating habits, physical activity and how closely you follow the advice of your bariatric team.
Read the related article: Gastric Sleeve Turkey: Is Turkey Weight Loss Surgery Safe? Know the Risks Before You Try
Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery Right for Me?
Your surgeon might recommend gastric sleeve surgery to you if:
- Your body mass index (BMI) is 35 or higher, or if your BMI is above 30 and you also suffer from obesity-related medical conditions which may improve with the surgery (e.g., diabetes, high blood pressure or sleep apnoea). If you are of Asian or Afro-Caribbean origin, the BMI cut-off is even lower because the risk of metabolic diseases starts at a lower BMI.
- Your diet does not contain a large number of sugary foods.
- If your BMI is >65, a gastric sleeve is often used as a first-stage surgery to help you lose enough weight so you can then safely have a second weight-loss surgery (gastric bypass or SADIS) about 12 months later.
- You are older or have other risk factors for surgery, like heart, lung or liver problems. Gastric sleeve surgery may be, in this situation, a safer choice for you than other longer and more complicated weight-loss surgeries.
Rarely, the decision to perform a gastric sleeve (instead of a gastric bypass) is made during the operation. Reasons for making this decision include an excessively large liver or extensive scar tissue and bowel adhesions that would make the gastric bypass procedure too long or unsafe. If we think it’s likely that this might be necessary for you, we will explain this plan to you beforehand and ensure that you are happy to proceed on that basis.
Your surgeon will consider your BMI, overall health, medical history, eating habits and weight loss goals before recommending the most appropriate bariatric procedure for you.
What Happens During Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Gastric sleeve surgery is usually performed under general anaesthetic using keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery. Approximately 75–80% of the stomach is removed, and the remaining section is formed into a narrow sleeve. Unlike gastric bypass surgery, the intestines are not rerouted, and unlike gastric band surgery, no adjustable band is placed around the stomach.
Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery
For suitable patients, potential benefits of gastric sleeve surgery include:
- Significant weight loss
- Smaller portion sizes
- Reduced hunger and appetite
- No intestinal bypass
- Potential improvement in obesity-related health conditions
- Improved mobility and quality of life for some patients
Individual results vary and cannot be guaranteed.
What Are the Risks of Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Gastric sleeve surgery is an established bariatric procedure, but as with any surgery, there are potential risks. These can include bleeding, infection, blood clots, leakage from the stomach staple line and acid reflux.
Before surgery, your surgeon will assess your individual health and explain the benefits and potential risks relevant to you. You will also receive guidance and follow-up support from the Phoenix Health bariatric team before and after your procedure.
How Much Does Gastric Sleeve Surgery Cost in the UK?
At Phoenix Health, gastric sleeve surgery typically starts from £10,275 across our UK hospital network for patients with a BMI under 50. The final cost can vary depending on your individual needs and chosen level of aftercare.
Our packages include expert aftercare, dietary guidance and ongoing support throughout your weight loss journey. When comparing gastric sleeve costs in the UK, it is important to consider the care and support included before and after surgery, rather than the operation price alone.
View our current gastric sleeve surgery prices
Private Gastric Sleeve Surgery With Phoenix Health
If you are considering a private gastric sleeve in the UK, Phoenix Health can assess whether sleeve gastrectomy is suitable for you and explain the other weight loss surgery options that may be appropriate. Your care is provided by an experienced bariatric team, with support available before surgery and through your chosen aftercare package following treatment.
Gastric Sleeve vs Gastric Bypass
Gastric sleeve and gastric bypass are both established weight loss operations, but they work differently. A gastric sleeve reduces the size of the stomach without rerouting the intestines, while gastric bypass creates a smaller stomach pouch and changes the route food takes through part of the digestive system. Factors such as your BMI, eating habits, reflux, existing health conditions, previous surgery and weight loss goals can influence which procedure may be more suitable for you.
Learn more about gastric bypass surgery
Gastric Sleeve vs Gastric Band
A gastric sleeve permanently removes a large part of the stomach, whereas a gastric band places an adjustable band around the upper part of the stomach without removing it.
The procedures differ in how they work, expected weight loss, follow-up requirements, potential risks and reversibility. Your bariatric surgeon can explain which option may be more appropriate for your individual circumstances.
Aftercare that’s second to none
We are committed to ensuring that you receive the absolute highest standards of service. That’s why we let you design your own aftercare package to suit your own individual needs.
We offer 3 different choices including our Standard, Silver package or our Gold and Platinum Enhanced Aftercare packages.
Choose the aftercare package that’s right for you…
Silver Package
What’s Included…
Treatment of complications at no extra cost for 3 months post-op
Free follow up and band fills for 2 years
Gold Package
What’s Included…
Treatment of complications at no extra cost for 12 months post-op
Free follow up and band fills for 5 years
Surgeon-led follow up
Bariatric gift
8 consultations with Senior Clinical Psychologist pre/post-op
Platinum Package
What’s Included…
Treatment of complications at no extra cost for 36 months post-op
Free follow up and band fills for 10 years
Surgeon-led follow up
Bariatric gift
16 consultations with Senior Clinical Psychologist pre/post-op
Frequently Asked Questions About Gastric Sleeve Surgery
What is the cost for sleeve gastrectomy surgery in the UK?
At Phoenix Health, the cost for sleeve gastrectomy surgery typically starts from £10,275 for patients with a BMI under 50. The final cost can vary depending on your individual needs and chosen aftercare package. View our current prices and aftercare options.
Is private gastric sleeve surgery the right choice for me?
Choosing private gastric sleeve surgery is a personal decision, and many people consider it when they feel ready to take steps towards improving their health. While NHS bariatric surgery pathways support eligible patients, NHS waiting times can be long, and some choose a private gastric sleeve surgery clinic to access specialist care sooner and begin their weight loss journey.
At Phoenix Health, our experienced bariatric specialists have supported patients for over 20 years through both NHS and private weight loss surgery pathways, helping them find the right option for their individual needs.
Is gastric sleeve Turkey a cheaper option than private gastric sleeve surgery in the UK?
Many UK patients searching for gastric sleeve Turkey or gastric sleeve abroad are attracted by lower advertised prices compared with private weight loss surgery in the UK. However, the advertised gastric sleeve Turkey price is only one part of the decision. It is important to consider the complete care journey, including pre-surgery assessments, clinical standards, surgeon experience, and access to long-term aftercare when you return home. Learn more about the risks, real costs, and important factors to consider before choosing gastric sleeve surgery in Turkey.
How long does it take to recover from gastric sleeve surgery?
Gastric sleeve recovery time can vary from person to person, but many patients gradually return to normal daily activities within a few weeks following their surgeon’s advice. Recovery is not only about healing after surgery; it also involves adjusting to new eating habits, lifestyle changes, and ongoing support to help achieve long-term weight management goals.
Can I take Mounjaro after gastric sleeve surgery?
Some patients consider GLP-1 injections or Mounjaro after gastric sleeve if they experience weight regain or need additional support with weight management after bariatric surgery. Whether GLP-1 treatment is suitable for you depends on your health, weight loss journey, and individual circumstances. Always speak with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any weight loss medication after gastric sleeve surgery.
Can I see gastric sleeve before and after photos?
Every gastric sleeve before and after journey is different, and results vary depending on your starting weight, health, lifestyle changes, and long-term commitment after surgery. You can explore our weight loss images before and after treatment page to view real patient stories and different bariatric surgery journeys.
What is the typical gastric sleeve recovery time?
Gastric sleeve recovery time varies from person to person. Many patients gradually return to normal daily activities within a few weeks, but recovery depends on individual healing, the type of work you do, and your surgeon’s guidance. Dietary changes and long-term lifestyle adjustments are also an important part of recovery after surgery.
What is the difference between gastric bypass and gastric sleeve surgery?
The main differences between gastric bypass and gastric sleeve are how each procedure changes the stomach and digestive system. Gastric sleeve surgery involves removing part of the stomach to create a smaller, sleeve-shaped stomach, helping you feel fuller with smaller portions. Gastric bypass surgery creates a smaller stomach pouch and changes the route food takes through part of the small intestine, affecting both food intake and absorption. Both procedures can support long-term weight loss, but the most suitable option depends on your health, lifestyle, and assessment with an experienced bariatric specialist.
Gastric sleeve vs gastric band what should I know before choosing?
When comparing gastric sleeve vs gastric band, it is important to understand how each procedure works and which may better suit your individual needs. Gastric sleeve surgery reduces the size of the stomach by removing a portion of it, while a gastric band uses an adjustable band placed around the upper stomach to help limit food intake. Factors such as your health, lifestyle, weight loss goals, long-term commitment, and medical history all play a role in deciding the most suitable option with your bariatric specialist.
