During the procedure, a laparoscope (a small camera) is used to guide the surgeon, who removes about 80% of the stomach, leaving a thin tube or sleeve-shaped stomach that can hold about 50-100 ml of food. The procedure is usually performed laparoscopically, which means that small incisions are made in the abdomen.

Gastric sleeve surgery helps people lose weight by reducing the amount of food they can eat at one time and by reducing the production of hunger hormones in the stomach. The surgery also removes the part of the stomach that produces a hormone called ghrelin, which stimulates appetite.

While the procedure is generally safe, there are risks associated with any surgical procedure, including bleeding, infection, and blood clots. In addition, there is a risk of complications associated with gastric sleeve surgery, including leaks, bleeding, and stricture (narrowing of the stomach opening).

It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of gastric sleeve surgery with a qualified medical professional before undergoing the procedure. Patients who undergo gastric sleeve surgery will also need to make significant lifestyle changes, including following a restricted calorie diet and increasing their physical activity to maintain weight loss.