Thinking about a Gastric Sleeve?

Here’s what you really need to know.

If you’ve ever thought about weight loss surgery, chances are you’ve heard of the gastric sleeve. But beyond the headlines and before-and-after photos, what does it really involve?

Gastric sleeve surgery (sleeve gastrectomy) involves removing a portion of the stomach to reduce its size and capacity. This helps reduce hunger hormones and supports long-term weight loss by limiting how much you can eat — without changing your body’s ability to absorb nutrients.

But surgery isn’t the “easy way out.” It requires preparation, recovery, and lifestyle changes. And it’s not just about numbers on a scale — it’s about reclaiming your health, confidence, and energy.

What You Won’t Hear Enough: The First Few Weeks Are Hard

Here’s the truth — the first 1–2 weeks post-surgery are tough. Many people underestimate the emotional and physical adjustment.

• You’ll feel tired – Healing takes energy
• You may feel emotional – Hormonal shifts and giving up food as comfort can be confronting
• Nausea, bloating and shoulder pain are common early on but improve quickly
• You’ll be sipping fluids constantly – often without much appetite

This is all normal and temporary.

What Happens After the Initial Recovery?

By Week 3, most patients are walking regularly, feeling better, and starting soft foods. At 6 weeks, you’re back on a full diet — just in smaller portions. Most people return to work around 2 weeks post-op, depending on their job.

From here, you’ll experience:

• Significant weight loss over the first 6–12 months
• More energy and improved sleep
• Better control of diabetes, blood pressure, or PCOS
• Freedom from constant calorie counting or strict diet plans

But the most powerful change? You feel like yourself again.

Surgery vs. Lifetime Weight Loss Medication: What’s Right for You?

Weight loss medications may have helped many people lose weight, but they come with:

• Ongoing costs (which can be hundreds per month)
• Side effects like nausea, constipation or gallstones
• Temporary results if stopped – weight often returns
• Limited long-term research in comparison to surgery

Gastric sleeve surgery is a one-time intervention with lasting outcomes, especially when supported by expert aftercare, nutrition advice, and long-term monitoring.

Final Thoughts

Gastric sleeve surgery isn’t a magic fix. It’s a powerful tool — backed by science, supported by experts, and driven by you.

If you’ve been thinking about taking that next step, Aurora Bariatrics will help you make an informed, empowered choice.

Written by A/Prof Ruth Blackham from Aurora Bariatrics & Metabolic Medicine

Dr Ruth Blackham is an Australian-trained Surgeon with subspecialty Fellowships in Bariatric, Upper GI and Metabolic Surgery. She has a special interest in Women’s Health, particularly the metabolic effects of bariatric surgery upon females. 

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