Sleeve gastrectomy (also known as gastric sleeve surgery) is the most popular and widely chosen procedure in Saudi Arabia and worldwide for treating severe obesity. The core concept is to reduce the stomach's size by approximately 75-80%, removing the outer portion so that it transforms from a wide pouch into a narrow tube resembling a sleeve.

This transformation does not only limit meal size — it also has a hormonal impact. By removing the stomach fundus, the part responsible for producing the hunger hormone (ghrelin) is eliminated, giving you a lasting sense of comfort and fullness with very small amounts of food.

Procedure Steps

With Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Sayigh's experience of over 9,000 successful procedures, the operation is performed according to the highest international safety standards:

  1. Laparoscopic Approach: The sleeve gastrectomy is performed entirely using advanced laparoscopic techniques through 4 or 5 very small surgical incisions (no more than one centimeter), resulting in less pain and virtually invisible scars.
  2. Smart Staplers: The latest generation of medical staplers globally are used, ensuring a secure and safe closure of the staple line.
  3. Safety Testing: The doctor performs a "leak test" inside the operating room to confirm 100% stomach integrity before finalizing the procedure.
  4. Record Time: The surgery usually takes between 45 to 60 minutes, and the patient can leave the hospital within 24 hours after necessary examinations.
Gastric Sleeve

Advantages & Results

Why do thousands of patients choose sleeve gastrectomy?

  • Remarkable Weight Loss: Patients can expect to lose between 60% to 70% of their excess weight within the first year.
  • Disease Control: The procedure contributes to recovery or significant improvement from type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and joint pain.
  • Improved Quality of Life: You will feel more energetic, sleep better (elimination of sleep apnea and snoring), and be able to engage in daily activities that were previously burdensome.
  • Aesthetic Results: Thanks to laparoscopic surgery, you return to normal life without bothersome surgical scars.
Gastric Sleeve

Pre- and Post-Operative Instructions

Before the Procedure:

  • Complete fasting from food and drink for 8 hours before the appointment.
  • Perform all laboratory tests and imaging requested by the medical team to ensure your readiness.
  • Stop smoking for a period determined by the doctor to ensure faster tissue healing.

After Sleeve Gastrectomy (Recovery Journey):

  1. Gradual Nutrition Program:
  • Phase 1 (First two weeks): Clear fluids only (water, strained juices, light broths).
  • Phase 2 (Weeks 3 & 4): Pureed foods (such as yogurt, mashed beans, mashed potatoes).
  • Phase 3: Gradual return to soft then regular food, with a focus on protein.
  1. New Eating Behavior: Chew food very thoroughly, stop eating as soon as you feel full, and separate drinking from eating by 30 minutes.
  2. Dietary Supplements: Commit to prescribed vitamins and minerals during the first months to ensure skin health, hair strength, and prevention of physical fatigue.
  3. Physical Activity: Light walking is encouraged from the very first day, while avoiding heavy lifting for 4-6 weeks.
  4. Avoid Carbonated Drinks: Completely avoid carbonated beverages to prevent stomach stretching, and reduce caffeine intake to avoid dehydration.
  5. Delay Pregnancy (for Women): Wait 12-18 months to ensure the safety of mother and baby and the stability of nutrition.
  6. Caution with Painkillers: Avoid medications that may cause ulcers (such as ibuprofen) and stick to what the doctor prescribes.
  7. Regular Follow-Up: Conduct blood tests every 3 months in the first year to monitor vitamin and mineral levels.