Gastric Sleeve vs Gastric Bypass: What’s the Difference?

If you are considering weight loss surgery, you have likely come across two popular options: gastric sleeve and gastric bypass. Both procedures have been shown to be effective in helping people lose weight and improve their health. However, there are differences between the two procedures that you should be aware of before making a decision. In this article, we will explore the similarities and differences between gastric sleeve and gastric bypass.

What is gastric sleeve surgery?

Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is a weight loss surgery that involves removing a portion of the stomach to create a smaller, banana-shaped stomach. This new smaller stomach limits the amount of food that can be consumed, leading to weight loss. The surgery is typically performed laparoscopically and takes about an hour to complete. Gastric sleeve surgery is often recommended for people with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with weight-related health issues such as type 2 diabetes or sleep apnea.

What is gastric bypass surgery?

Gastric bypass surgery, also known as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, is a weight loss surgery that involves creating a small stomach pouch and rerouting the small intestine to this new pouch. This restricts the amount of food that can be eaten and reduces the absorption of calories from food. Gastric bypass surgery is also performed laparoscopically and takes about 2-3 hours to complete. Gastric bypass surgery is typically recommended for people with a BMI of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with weight-related health issues.

The similarities between gastric sleeve and gastric bypass

Both gastric sleeve and gastric bypass surgeries are designed to help people lose weight by reducing the amount of food they can eat. Both surgeries are performed laparoscopically and require general anesthesia. Both surgeries require the patient to follow a strict diet and exercise plan before and after surgery to maximize weight loss results.

The differences between gastric sleeve and gastric bypass

How the surgeries are performed

The main difference between gastric sleeve and gastric bypass surgeries is how they are performed. During gastric sleeve surgery, a portion of the stomach is removed to create a smaller, banana-shaped stomach. During gastric bypass surgery, a small stomach pouch is created and the small intestine is rerouted to this new pouch. This creates a “Y” shape that restricts the amount of food that can be eaten and reduces the absorption of calories.

Weight loss results

Both gastric sleeve and gastric bypass surgeries are effective in helping people lose weight. However, gastric bypass surgery has been shown to result in greater weight loss than gastric sleeve surgery. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, people who underwent gastric bypass surgery lost an average of 66% of their excess weight, while people who underwent gastric sleeve surgery lost an average of 59% of their excess weight.

Risks and complications

Both gastric sleeve and gastric bypass surgeries carry risks and potential complications. Risks of both surgeries include bleeding, infection, blood clots, and anesthesia complications. However, gastric bypass surgery has a higher risk of complications such as dumping syndrome, which occurs when food moves too quickly through the stomach and small intestine, causing nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Gastric sleeve surgery has a lower risk of complications but can lead to acid reflux and stomach leaks in rare cases.

Which procedure is right for you? Gastric Sleeve vs Gastric Bypass

Deciding between gastric sleeve and gastric bypass surgery can be a difficult decision. It is important to discuss the pros and cons of each procedure with your doctor and weight loss surgeon. Your decision may depend on your personal health history, weight loss goals, and preferences.

Preparing for surgery

Before undergoing either gastric sleeve or gastric bypass surgery, you will need to undergo a thorough evaluation by your weight loss surgeon. This may include blood tests, imaging tests, and a psychological evaluation. You will also need to follow a strict preoperative diet and exercise plan to prepare your body for surgery.

Recovery after surgery

Recovery time after gastric sleeve or gastric bypass surgery can vary from person to person, but most people can return to work and normal activities within 2-4 weeks. You will need to follow a strict diet and exercise plan for several weeks after surgery to help your body heal and adjust to the changes.

Long-term effects and maintenance

Both gastric sleeve and gastric bypass surgery require lifelong commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This includes following a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and attending regular check-ups with your weight loss surgeon. Failure to follow these guidelines can lead to weight regain and potential health complications.

Gastric Bypass Success Rate

Gastric bypass success rate

The success rate of gastric bypass surgery can vary depending on several factors, including the patient’s preoperative health, postoperative adherence to lifestyle changes, and other factors. However, overall, gastric bypass surgery has been shown to have a high success rate. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, people who underwent gastric bypass surgery lost an average of 66% of their excess weight and maintained this weight loss for at least five years.

Factors that can affect gastric bypass success

Several factors can affect the success of gastric bypass surgery. These include preoperative factors, such as the patient’s overall health, age, and weight, as well as postoperative factors, such as adherence to a healthy diet and exercise plan.

• Preoperative factors

Preoperative factors that can affect gastric bypass success include the patient’s overall health, age, and weight. People with certain health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and sleep apnea, may have a higher chance of success with gastric bypass surgery. Younger patients may also have a higher success rate than older patients, and patients with a higher starting weight may lose more weight overall.

• Postoperative factors

Postoperative factors that can affect gastric bypass success include adherence to a healthy diet and exercise plan. Patients who follow their surgeon’s recommendations for diet and exercise are more likely to lose weight and maintain their weight loss long-term. In addition, regular check-ups with a weight loss surgeon can help identify potential issues and provide ongoing support and motivation.

Gastric Sleeve Success Rate

Gastric sleeve success rate

The success rate of gastric sleeve surgery can vary depending on several factors, including the patient’s preoperative health, postoperative adherence to lifestyle changes, and other factors. However, overall, gastric sleeve surgery has been shown to have a high success rate. According to a study published in the journal Obesity Surgery, people who underwent gastric sleeve surgery lost an average of 57% of their excess weight and maintained this weight loss for at least five years.

Factors that can affect gastric sleeve success

Several factors can affect the success of gastric sleeve surgery. These include preoperative factors, such as the patient’s overall health, age, and weight, as well as postoperative factors, such as adherence to a healthy diet and exercise plan.

• Preoperative factors

Preoperative factors that can affect gastric sleeve success include the patient’s overall health, age, and weight. People with certain health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and sleep apnea, may have a higher chance of success with gastric sleeve surgery. Younger patients may also have a higher success rate than older patients, and patients with a higher starting weight may lose more weight overall.

• Postoperative factors

Postoperative factors that can affect gastric sleeve success include adherence to a healthy diet and exercise plan. Patients who follow their surgeon’s recommendations for diet and exercise are more likely to lose weight and maintain their weight loss long-term. In addition, regular check-ups with a weight loss surgeon can help identify potential issues and provide ongoing support and motivation.

Gastric Sleeve vs Bypass: Pros and Cons

Gastric Sleeve Surgery Pros

Gastric sleeve surgery has a lower risk of complications compared to gastric bypass surgery.
Recovery time after gastric sleeve surgery is typically shorter than gastric bypass surgery.
The surgery does not require rerouting the small intestine, which can reduce the risk of complications related to intestinal surgery.
The surgery may improve certain weight-related health issues such as type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.

Gastric Sleeve Surgery Cons

Gastric sleeve surgery may not be as effective as gastric bypass surgery in achieving significant weight loss in some patients.
The surgery may lead to acid reflux or stomach leaks in rare cases.
The surgery is irreversible and cannot be converted to a different weight loss surgery if needed.

Pros and cons of gastric bypass surgery

Gastric Bypass Surgery Pros

Gastric bypass surgery has been shown to be highly effective in achieving significant weight loss in most patients.
The surgery may lead to rapid improvement of weight-related health issues such as type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.
The surgery can be reversed or converted to a different weight loss surgery if needed.

Gastric Bypass Surgery Cons

Gastric bypass surgery has a higher risk of complications compared to gastric sleeve surgery, including dumping syndrome, which can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Recovery time after gastric bypass surgery is typically longer than gastric sleeve surgery.
The surgery requires rerouting the small intestine, which can increase the risk of complications related to intestinal surgery.

Cost Comparison Of Gastric Sleeve and Gastric Bypass Surgeries

Average cost

The cost of gastric sleeve surgery can range from 3.000€ to 6.500€, with an average cost of around 3.500€. The cost of gastric bypass surgery can range from 3.500€ to 7.000€, with an average cost of around 4.000€. These costs may vary depending on location, hospital fees, and surgeon fees.

Factors that can affect cost

Several factors can affect the cost of gastric sleeve and gastric bypass surgeries. These include:

1. Location: The cost of the surgery can vary depending on the location of the hospital and surgeon.
2. Hospital fees: Hospital fees can include operating room fees, anesthesia fees, and recovery room fees.
3. Surgeon fees: Surgeon fees can vary depending on the surgeon’s experience and location.
4. Preoperative testing: Preoperative testing, such as blood work and imaging, can add to the overall cost of the surgery.
5. Postoperative care: Postoperative care, including follow-up visits and support, can add to the overall cost of the surgery.

Gastric sleeve and gastric bypass surgeries are both effective options for people struggling with obesity and related health issues. Both surgeries have similarities and differences that should be carefully considered when deciding which procedure is right for you. It is important to work closely with your weight loss surgeon to prepare for surgery, maximise weight loss results and maintain a healthy lifestyle in the long term. If you are also suffering from excess weight and wondering which surgery is more suitable for you, you can take advantage of our online consultation service. With our free, online consultation service, we can get the most suitable treatment plan for you from our expert bariatric surgeon.