Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy

The laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, most commonly referred to as the “sleeve”, is a minimally invasive weight loss procedure. During the procedure, 3-5 very small incisions are made in the abdomen. From there, approximately 80% of the stomach is removed leaving a small tube shaped stomach. Dr. Leithead creates a small sleeve so that patients achieve optimal long-term weight loss. In addition, Dr. Leithead uniquely imbricates the first part of the stomach to create a double layer of closure, essentially eliminating the opportunity for leaks. The food travels the same way through the gastrointestinal tract so absorption is not changed.

The change in the gastrointestinal hormones results in a dramatic reduction in hunger and cravings. In addition, the patient will fill up and become full on much smaller amounts of food. Without their hunger and cravings, patients find it much easier to achieve optimal long-term weight loss.

Our patients can expect to lose between 40% and 90% of their excess body weight, although results vary depending on a patient’s commitment after surgery. Many obesity-related comorbidities such as high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and diabetes are often improved or resolved after surgery.

A Patient’s Journey Throughout the
Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy

Your first step

The first step of your weight loss journey is to speak with one of our Patient Advocates. Our Advocates are experts in helping patients navigate the insurance maze and if insurance will cover the procedure.

Pre-Procedure clinic visit

During the initial clinic visit, our patients meet with one of our nurse practitioners to determine whether any pre-operative testing is needed prior to surgery. Pre-operative tests are sometimes necessary to make sure our patients are healthy enough to undergo a procedure.

Following the initial clinic visit, our patients will be assigned a case manager. Our case managers answer patient questions and discuss any concerns prior to surgery.

The Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy

Our patients meet with Dr. Leithead or one of our nurse practitioners in clinic approximately 7-10 days prior to their procedure (special arrangements are made for our traveling patients).

A laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy takes between 45 minutes to 1 hour. Our patients remain in the recovery room for 1-2 hours and typically begin walking the hallways and drinking liquids around that same time. Patients are usually discharged the next morning.

Follow-up

Our patients follow-up with Dr. Leithead or one of our nurse practitioners periodically following the procedure to insure healthy weight loss goals are met.

What are the advantages?

  • Often generates rapid and significant weight loss
  • Suppresses hunger and cravings
  • Restricts the amount of food the stomach can hold
  • There is no rerouting of the food stream or malabsorption of vitamins or proteins
  • Approximately one night stay in hospital

What are the risks?

As with any surgery, there are risks associated with the procedure; however, the health benefits as well as quality of life improvements far outweigh any risk of complications. Dr. Leithead will personally discuss the risks with each patient prior to surgery.

Patient testimonials

"I feel great! All my illnesses associated with being obese are resolved. It’s been an amazing journey."

- DAVID

Lost 140 pounds

*These are individual results. No outcome is guaranteed.

"It was a struggle to do the simplest things like walking in the store or tying my shoes. I find myself having much more energy now. It’s the best thing I’ve ever done."

- MELISSA

Lost 190 pounds

*These are individual results. No outcome is guaranteed.

"I’m living my life for the first time. I’ve run three half marathons since losing all my weight."

- RAMSEY

Lost 220 pounds

*These are individual results. No outcome is guaranteed.

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