The Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy, often called the “sleeve”, is performed by removing approximately 80% of the stomach. The remaining stomach is the size and shape of a banana. The Procedure The stomach is freed from organs around it. Surgical staplers are used to remove 80% of the stomach, making it much smaller. How it Works The new stomach holds less food and liquid helping reduce the amount of food (and calories) that are consumed. By removing the portion of the stomach that produces most of the “hunger hormone”, the surgery has an effect on the metabolism. It decreases hunger, increases fullness, and allows the body to reach and maintain a healthy weight as well as blood sugar control. The simple nature of the operation makes it very safe without the potential complications from surgery on the small intestine. Advantages Technically simple and shorter surgery time Can be performed in certain patients with high risk medical conditions May be performed as the first step for patients with severe obesity May be used as a bridge to gastric bypass or SADI-S procedures Effective weight loss and improvement of obesity related conditions Disadvantages Non-reversible procedure May worsen or cause new onset reflux and heart burn Less impact on metabolism compared to bypass procedures Beloud