Sleeve gastrectomy is one of the most effective and commonly performed bariatric procedures in the United States. It removes approximately 70–80% of the stomach while preserving the natural pylorus and intestinal anatomy. This procedure supports powerful metabolic changes, reduces hunger hormones, improves blood sugar regulation, and promotes durable long-term fat loss.

Sleeve gastrectomy works through both anatomical and metabolic mechanisms: reduced stomach volume leading to earlier satiety; decreased ghrelin production leading to reduced hunger; improved insulin sensitivity; and faster gastric emptying that enhances hormonal signaling.

Patients typically experience significant long-term fat loss, improvement or remission of diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea, reduced hunger, improved satiety, lower surgical risk compared to more complex procedures, shorter operative time, faster recovery, and preservation of natural anatomy without intestinal bypass.

You may be a candidate for sleeve gastrectomy if you meet any of the following: BMI ≥ 35 with or without comorbidities; BMI 30–34.9 with metabolic disease; prior bariatric surgery with weight regain or complications; severe obesity requiring metabolic intervention; or if you seek a powerful metabolic procedure with lower complexity than bypass or duodenal switch.

Sleeve gastrectomy is performed laparoscopically using small incisions and advanced minimally invasive techniques. The stomach is mobilized, a sizing bougie is placed, the greater curvature is removed, and the remaining stomach is shaped into a narrow tube. Most patients go home the same day or the next morning.

Potential risks include bleeding, leak, stricture, reflux or worsening reflux, nutritional deficiencies, and weight regain if long-term habits are not supported. Dr. de la Cruz-Muñoz’s high-volume experience significantly reduces complication rates.

Most patients recover quickly after sleeve gastrectomy. Day 1–3: hydration, gentle movement, pain control. Week 1: clear to full liquids. Week 2: soft foods. Week 3–4: transition to more normal routines. By 30 days: improved energy, reduced hunger, early metabolic changes.

Sleeve gastrectomy supports durable long-term fat loss when paired with nutrition, activity, and metabolic follow-up. Patients typically experience reduced hunger, improved blood sugar, steady fat loss over 12–18 months, and long-term metabolic improvement.

Dr. Nestor de la Cruz-Muñoz is a nationally recognized bariatric and metabolic surgeon with outcomes that exceed national benchmarks. His high-volume experience, advanced minimally invasive techniques, and long-term metabolic support model ensure safe, effective, and compassionate care.

Most patients lose 25–29% of total body weight (TBWL) over 12–18 months. Fat loss continues gradually with long‑term metabolic follow‑up, nutrition support, and activity.

Sleeve gastrectomy commonly improves or resolves type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, sleep apnea, fatty liver disease, and PCOS. Early hormonal changes improve insulin sensitivity within days of surgery.

Long-term success depends on protein-forward nutrition, resistance training, avoiding slider foods, maintaining muscle mass, and consistent metabolic follow-up. Body composition monitoring is essential to prevent metabolic slowdown.

Sleeve gastrectomy may worsen pre-existing reflux in some patients. Patients with severe GERD or large hiatal hernias may benefit more from gastric bypass. Hiatal hernia repair can be performed during sleeve surgery when appropriate.

Revision options after sleeve gastrectomy include conversion to gastric bypass for severe reflux or inadequate weight loss, conversion to SADI-S or duodenal switch for greater metabolic effect, or endoscopic revision options depending on anatomy and goals.

Sleeve success depends on preserving lean mass. Patients are guided to prioritize protein intake, resistance training, and adequate hydration. Maintaining muscle protects metabolism and reduces long-term weight regain risk.

Most insurers require BMI criteria, comorbidity documentation, supervised weight-loss attempts, psychological evaluation, and medical clearance. Our team manages verification and authorization.

Pre-op requirements may include a liver-shrinking diet, bloodwork, cardiac clearance, sleep apnea evaluation, and medication adjustments. High-risk patients may require additional testing.

Nutrition progresses from clear liquids to full liquids, purees, soft foods, and then regular textures. Protein goals are emphasized from day one. Hydration and vitamin supplementation are essential.

Early walking begins immediately after surgery. Light activity continues through week 2. Resistance training typically begins at week 4–6 to support muscle preservation and metabolic health.

Miami is a major hub for patients from Latin America and the Caribbean. Our team supports travel coordination, virtual follow-up, and streamlined pre-op evaluation for international patients.