Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Tunisia

Before undergoing gastric sleeve surgery:

• Pre-operative tests: Blood tests, endoscopy, and psychological evaluations may be required.
• Understand risks and benefits: Learn about potential complications and the long-term advantages.
• Lifestyle adjustments: Stop smoking and follow a pre-operative diet as advised.

This surgery is ideal for individuals who:

• Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or more, or 35+ with obesity-related conditions such as diabetes or hypertension.
• Have failed to lose weight through diet and exercise alone.
• Are committed to long-term follow-up and lifestyle changes.

• Significant weight loss: Patients can lose 60–70% of their excess weight within 2 years.
• Improved health: Reduces or resolves conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.
• No foreign objects: Unlike gastric bands, no implants are used.
• Lower malabsorption risk: Compared to gastric bypass, nutritional deficiencies are less common.

The procedure includes:

1. General anesthesia: Ensures patient comfort during the surgery.
2. Laparoscopic incisions: Small incisions allow for minimally invasive surgery.
3. Stomach resection: A large portion of the stomach is removed, leaving a tube-like structure.
4. Closure: The remaining stomach is sealed with staples and sutures.
5. Duration: The surgery takes approximately 1–2 hours.

After the procedure:

• Hospital stay: Typically 2 to 3 days.
• Pain management: Mild discomfort is managed with prescribed medications.
• Dietary progression: Gradual introduction of liquids, pureed foods, and soft solids.
• Follow-up visits: Regular check-ups to monitor recovery and weight loss progress.

Gastric sleeve surgery provides long-lasting results. Maximum weight loss is typically achieved within 12 to 24 months, depending on the patient’s adherence to lifestyle changes.

• Follow a balanced, high-protein diet low in sugar and fat.
• Stay hydrated by drinking at least 1.5 liters of water daily.
• Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine.
• Attend all post-operative follow-ups with your surgeon and dietitian.

1. Liquid phase: For the first few days post-surgery.
2. Pureed foods: Gradually introduced over the next 2–4 weeks.
3. Soft foods: Introduced in the following weeks to support healing.
4. Solid foods: Gradual return to small, balanced meals after 8 weeks.

Final results are visible 12 to 24 months after surgery, once patients achieve their target weight and stabilize their lifestyle habits.

For enhanced results, gastric sleeve surgery can be combined with:

• Body contouring: Procedures like abdominoplasty or arm lift to remove excess skin.
• Liposuction: To refine body shape post-weight loss.