Gastric Sleeve Surgery: Benefits, Risks, and What to Expect

Gastric Sleeve Performed By Dr. Luis Perez (Dr. Weight Loss Tijuana)) — Gastric Sleeve Performed by Dr. Luis Perez

Taking the First Step Toward a Healthier You

Weight loss can feel like a marathon you didn’t sign up for—except you’re stuck on mile one. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. For many people, weight loss surgery is a life-changing step that transforms their health and daily life. Gastric sleeve surgery is one of the most popular options, and when performed by experts in a supportive setting, it offers remarkable results and a new beginning.8

With Dr. Luis Perez and his experienced team at Dr. Weight Loss Tijuana, you’re not just in capable hands—you’re in one of the most trusted environments for bariatric surgery in Tijuana.

So, What is Gastric Sleeve Surgery, Exactly?

In simple terms, gastric sleeve surgery (or sleeve gastrectomy) removes about 80% of your

stomach, leaving a thin, banana-shaped “sleeve.” This smaller stomach pouch reduces the amount of food you can eat while also decreasing levels of ghrelin, the hunger hormone. Think of it as hitting the “reset” button on your appetite and meal portions.

The surgery is done laparoscopically, which means just a few small incisions. The procedure is relatively quick, and thanks to the minimally invasive approach, recovery time is shorter, letting you get back to life faster—healthier, lighter, and with a new lease on life.

Why Gastric Sleeve Surgery is a Popular Choice

If you’ve looked into weight loss surgeries, you may have come across options like the gastric bypass or the lap band. Here’s why the gastric sleeve often wins out:

Simple and Effective: It’s less complex than procedures like the gastric bypass, so it’s easier on the body and has fewer post-op requirements.
Reduced Risk: There’s no foreign object like a band, and no rerouting of intestines, making the gastric sleeve a generally lower-risk choice.
Sustainable Results: Patients can expect to lose about 50-60% of their excess weight within 18 months, with many keeping the weight off long-term.

Risks? Yes, But You’re in the Best Hands

Every surgery has risks, and the gastric sleeve is no exception, but here’s the reassuring part: Dr. Luis Perez’s team operates in a facility designed for bariatric care, using the latest technology and techniques to keep your risks as low as possible. Some potential risks include:

Leakage: Rare, but it’s monitored closely with advanced surgical techniques and thorough post-op care. Dr. Luis’s team follows industry-leading protocols, so this risk is minimal.
Nutritional Deficiencies: With a smaller stomach, absorbing all essential nutrients can be challenging for some. Dr. Luis will guide you in managing this with vitamins and supplements tailored to your needs.
Heartburn or Acid Reflux: The smaller stomach can sometimes lead to increased acid production, but again, there are solutions tailored to each patient, so you’ll be in capable hands if this occurs.

Rest assured, with Dr. Perez and his team’s attention to detail and extensive experience in bariatric surgery, your health and safety are the top priority.

What to Expect Before, During, and After Surgery

Before Surgery

In the days leading up to surgery, you’ll meet with Dr. Perez and his team for a series of health checks and consultations to ensure you’re ready. This phase is also when you’ll start any lifestyle adjustments necessary to make recovery smooth and successful.

During Surgery

The surgery itself is relatively quick, lasting around 1-2 hours. Thanks to the minimally invasive laparoscopic approach, you’ll experience less pain and a faster recovery. Dr. Luis’s expert team will guide you every step of the way, ensuring you feel informed and comfortable throughout the procedure.

After Surgery

You’ll start with a liquid diet and gradually move to pureed foods, then solids, giving your body time to adjust to its new, smaller stomach. And while you’ll likely be on cloud nine as the pounds start to drop, Dr. Perez’s team will keep you focused on a healthy, sustainable path forward.

Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery Right for You?

This surgery is ideal for individuals with a BMI of 35 or higher who haven’t achieved lasting results with traditional weight-loss methods.

If you’re ready to take a transformative step toward improved health and happiness, gastric sleeve surgery may be the answer.

Final Thoughts

If you’re considering gastric sleeve surgery, you don’t have to navigate this alone. With Dr. Luis Perez and his team at Dr. Weight Loss Tijuana, you’ll have the support, guidance, and expertise you need to transform your health. After all, it’s not just about losing weight—it’s about gaining a better life.