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Gastrointestinal & Bariatric Procedures

Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy in Chennai — Metabolic Weight Surgery

Multidisciplinary workup • Long-term follow-up • Visiting bariatric consultants

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Bariatric surgeon discussing sleeve gastrectomy with a patient at THANC Hospital, Chennai
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This page provides an in-depth clinical overview of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy as performed at THANC Hospital. It outlines the surgical procedure, its mechanisms, expected outcomes, and our comprehensive patient care pathway. If you are currently exploring whether bariatric surgery is a suitable option for your health journey, including understanding eligibility criteria and associated costs, we encourage you to first consult our detailed patient guide on bariatric surgery cost and eligibility in Chennai. That resource offers foundational insights to help you make an informed decision before delving into specific procedures like sleeve gastrectomy.

About Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy at THANC

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is a widely adopted bariatric procedure globally, increasingly common in India for managing severe obesity and related metabolic conditions. This minimally invasive surgery involves resecting approximately 75 to 80 percent of the stomach along its greater curvature, creating a narrow, tube-like 'sleeve'. The procedure operates through dual mechanisms: a significant restrictive effect due to the reduced stomach volume, and a profound metabolic impact primarily by removing the fundus, which is the primary site of ghrelin production, the body's main hunger-stimulating hormone. This reduction in ghrelin levels often leads to a genuine decrease in appetite post-operatively. Indications for LSG at THANC Hospital align with Asian-adapted IFSO-APC criteria, considering patients with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 32.5 kg/m² or higher, or those with a BMI of 27.5 kg/m² or above presenting with significant metabolic comorbidities such as poorly controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus, severe obstructive sleep apnoea, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease progressing to fibrosis.

At THANC Hospital, we approach sleeve gastrectomy with a thorough, multidisciplinary evaluation, ensuring each patient receives personalised care. This comprehensive assessment includes consultations with our surgical team, endocrinologists, dietitians, and psychologists, alongside an obstructive sleep apnoea screen, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy where clinically indicated, abdominal ultrasound, and a full blood and metabolic panel, culminating in an anaesthesia review. Patients typically achieve an average excess weight loss of 60 to 70 percent within one year, with notable remission rates for type 2 diabetes (around 58.7%), hypertension (45.0%), and obstructive sleep apnoea (65.8%). Our standard post-operative plan includes lifelong vitamin and mineral supplementation and structured reviews at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and annually thereafter, to support sustained health and manage potential nutritional deficiencies.

References

  1. 1. Role of Hunger Hormone “Ghrelin” in Long-Term Weight Loss Following Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy — PubMed Central (PMC)
  2. 2. Long-Term Results of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: a Review of Studies Reporting 10+ Years Outcomes — PubMed
  3. 3. Comprehensive Long-Term Outcomes and Durability of Sleeve Gastrectomy with Up to 14 Years of Follow-up — PubMed
  4. 4. IFSO-APC consensus statements 2011 — PubMed
  5. 5. Nutritional Deficiencies 3 Years After Sleeve Gastrectomy Can Be Limited by a Specialized Multivitamin Supplement — PubMed Central (PMC)

What to Expect

A clear step-by-step view of your treatment journey at THANC.

  1. 1

    Pre-operative Assessment and Optimisation

    Your journey begins with a detailed multidisciplinary evaluation including surgical, endocrinological, dietetic, and psychological assessments. We perform an obstructive sleep apnoea screen, upper GI endoscopy if indicated, abdominal ultrasound, and a comprehensive blood and metabolic panel to ensure you are optimally prepared for surgery. This holistic approach helps identify and manage any pre-existing conditions, such as Helicobacter pylori infection or hiatal hernia, which might influence surgical planning and outcomes.

  2. 2

    Anaesthesia and Surgical Access

    Under general anaesthesia, small incisions (typically five) are made in your abdomen to allow for laparoscopic access. Carbon dioxide gas is gently insufflated into the abdominal cavity to create working space. Our anaesthesia team meticulously monitors your vital signs throughout the procedure, ensuring your comfort and safety. The minimally invasive approach facilitates reduced post-operative pain and a quicker return to daily activities.

  3. 3

    Stomach Resection and Stapling

    Using specialised laparoscopic instruments, approximately 75 to 80 percent of the stomach's greater curvature is carefully resected. A calibration tube (bougie) is inserted into the stomach to guide the creation of a narrow, sleeve-shaped gastric pouch, ensuring consistent sizing. The remaining stomach is then securely stapled, creating a new, smaller stomach that restricts food intake and alters hunger hormone production.

  4. 4

    Leak Test and Closure

    Following the resection and stapling, a leak test is routinely performed to verify the integrity of the staple line and ensure there are no leaks. This critical step enhances patient safety. Once the absence of leaks is confirmed, the laparoscopic instruments are removed, and the small incisions are closed with sutures or surgical glue. You will then be transferred to the recovery area for close monitoring.

Why Choose THANC Hospital for Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy?

At THANC Hospital, your laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is performed by highly experienced senior consultants, ensuring meticulous surgical technique and comprehensive care. Our commitment extends beyond the operating theatre, encompassing a rigorous multidisciplinary pre-operative assessment and a structured, long-term post-operative follow-up programme. We prioritise your safety and successful metabolic transformation, offering transparent cost estimates and rates designed to be consistently lower than prevailing market prices in Chennai, without compromising on quality or expertise.

  • Senior consultant-led bariatric surgery, ensuring expert hands at every step.
  • Rigorous multidisciplinary evaluation for precise, individualised surgical planning.
  • Advanced laparoscopic approach for minimal incision, discomfort, and recovery.
  • Comprehensive, structured post-operative nutritional guidance and long-term reviews.
  • Clear, upfront cost estimates, providing complete financial clarity before treatment.
  • Dedicated focus on sustained metabolic health and resolution of obesity-related conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the primary health benefits I can expect from laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy?
Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy offers substantial health improvements beyond just weight loss. Patients often experience significant remission or resolution of obesity-related comorbidities, including type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and obstructive sleep apnoea. Additionally, conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease can show marked improvement. The reduction in the hunger hormone ghrelin also contributes to a sustained decrease in appetite, making weight management more achievable in the long term.
How long is the typical hospital stay and what does the initial recovery involve?
Following a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, most patients at THANC Hospital can expect a hospital stay of approximately two to four days. During this initial recovery period, our team closely monitors your progress, manages any discomfort, and guides you through the first phase of your post-operative diet, which typically begins with clear liquids. We ensure you are stable and well-informed about your immediate care before discharge.
What kind of dietary changes will be necessary after the surgery?
Post-surgery, a structured dietary progression is crucial for healing and successful weight loss. You will gradually advance from liquids to pureed foods, then to soft foods, and finally to solid foods over the first six to eight weeks, all under the expert guidance of our dietetic team. This staged approach allows your new stomach to heal and adapt. Lifelong adherence to a balanced diet and regular intake of prescribed vitamin and mineral supplements are essential to prevent nutritional deficiencies.
Are there any potential risks or complications associated with this procedure?
As with any surgical procedure, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy carries potential risks, though major complications are relatively uncommon. Early complications can include staple line leaks, bleeding, or infection. Long-term considerations may involve the development or exacerbation of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or nutrient deficiencies requiring careful monitoring and supplementation. Our team discusses all potential risks thoroughly during your consultation.
How frequently will I need follow-up appointments after my sleeve gastrectomy?
At THANC Hospital, we emphasise structured, long-term follow-up to support your journey. Your post-operative review schedule typically includes appointments at two weeks, six weeks, three months, six months, and then annually. These regular visits allow our multidisciplinary team to monitor your weight loss, assess for any nutritional deficiencies, adjust your dietary plan as needed, and address any concerns you may have, ensuring optimal long-term outcomes.
Can laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy help resolve type 2 diabetes?
Yes, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is highly effective in improving or achieving remission of type 2 diabetes, often referred to as metabolic surgery for this reason. Studies indicate remission rates of around 58.7% for type 2 diabetes post-surgery. This is attributed to both weight loss and the metabolic changes induced by the removal of the ghrelin-producing part of the stomach, which can improve insulin sensitivity and glucose regulation.
What kind of preparation is required before undergoing sleeve gastrectomy?
Preparation for sleeve gastrectomy is comprehensive and multidisciplinary. It involves detailed consultations with our bariatric surgeon, endocrinologist, dietitian, and psychologist. You will also undergo an obstructive sleep apnoea screen, an upper GI endoscopy (if indicated), abdominal ultrasound, and a full panel of blood and metabolic tests. This thorough evaluation ensures you are medically and psychologically ready for surgery and helps us tailor your treatment plan.
When should I contact THANC Hospital after my sleeve gastrectomy?
You should contact THANC Hospital immediately if you experience any concerning symptoms after your sleeve gastrectomy. This includes persistent or worsening pain, fever, chills, excessive nausea or vomiting, difficulty swallowing, unusual discharge from your incision sites, or any other signs that cause you worry. Our team is available to provide guidance and assess your condition promptly, ensuring your safety and well-being.

Related Reading

Patient guides and educational articles on related topics.

bariatric-surgery-cost-eligibility-chennaifatty-liver-disease-treatment-chennai

Medically reviewed by Dr. Naveen Alexander on 12 April 2026

MBBS, MS (Gen Surg), MRCS (Edin), FACS, FICS, Dip MIS

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Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy at THANC

  • Senior consultant-led bariatric surgery, ensuring expert hands at every step.
  • Rigorous multidisciplinary evaluation for precise, individualised surgical planning.
  • Advanced laparoscopic approach for minimal incision, discomfort, and recovery.
  • Comprehensive, structured post-operative nutritional guidance and long-term reviews.
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