Sleeve Gastrectomy

Sleeve gastrectomy is one of the most effective and safest bariatric procedures available today.

What Is Sleeve Gastrectomy?

Sleeve gastrectomy is the most popular and widely performed weight-loss surgery in Australia. Its strong safety record, predictable results, and effectiveness make it the preferred primary bariatric procedure for most overweight and obese patients.

This operation permanently reduces the size of the stomach, helping you feel full sooner while naturally decreasing appetite hormones. The result is steady, sustainable weight loss supported by healthier eating patterns.

How Is the Procedure Performed?

Sleeve gastrectomy is performed using laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery, ensuring minimal scarring and faster recovery.

Once under general anaesthesia:

  • Five small keyhole incisions are made in the abdomen.

  • The stomach is separated from the greater omentum (fatty apron).

  • The diaphragm is examined for any hiatus hernia, and a repair is performed if needed.

  • A calibration tube is inserted through the oesophagus to guide the precise size of the new stomach.

  • A stapling and cutting device removes 70–80% of the stomach, leaving a sleeve-shaped tube of about 125ml (½ cup) in volume.

  • The removed stomach portion is taken out via the keyhole for pathology assessment.

Additional Safety Steps — Unique to Circle of Care

  • Unlike most surgeons, Circle of Care performs several extra protective techniques to reduce complications:

    • Staple line imbrication to bury and reinforce the area where leaks most commonly occur — resulting in a 0% leakage rate in over 2,163 operations.

    • Fat patch reinforcement using the omentum for extra stability.

    • Anti-twist stitches to stop the sleeve from rotating and causing obstruction.

    Finally, all wounds are closed with dissolvable sutures, local anaesthetic is applied.

How Does Sleeve Gastrectomy Work?

A smaller stomach means smaller meals, reduced appetite, and increased satiety. Most patients:

  • Feel full after just a few bites

  • Experience a reduction in hunger hormones

  • Lose 70–80% of excess body weight within 12 months

  • Some achieve up to 100% excess weight loss

Weight loss is supported by your personalised Circle of Care Allied Health Program, helping you adapt to new eating habits and maintain long-term lifestyle change.

Benefits of Sleeve Gastrectomy

  • Safe and minimally invasive

  • Rapid recovery time

  • Significant, long-term weight loss

  • Reduced hunger and cravings

  • No foreign devices or intestinal rerouting

  • Improved diabetes, sleep apnoea, fertility, blood pressure, and mobility

Patient Stories & Trust Signals

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sleeve Gastrectomy Right for You?

This procedure is ideal for patients seeking a powerful, effective, and permanent weight-loss solution backed by decades of research and excellent safety outcomes.

Our team will guide you through a personalised assessment to determine if the sleeve is the best option for your health, lifestyle, and goals.

Following your procedure, our multidisciplinary team will support your recovery and long-term success, including:

  • Nutrition guidance

  • Eating technique coaching

  • Exercise and mobility support

  • Behavioural and psychological assistance

  • Regular follow-ups to track your progress

Our goal is to help you achieve a healthier, more active life while preventing weight regain.

Ready to Begin Your Weight Loss Journey?