Gastric Sleeve FAQs

Once you decide to move forward with gastric sleeve surgery, the process can move quickly. For many patients, the time from decision to surgery can be as short as a few weeks. We aim to expedite the preparation process while ensuring thorough health evaluations and personalized care. Your journey will include health assessments and consultations with our team to ensure you’re fully informed and prepared.

The gastric sleeve surgery is not covered by OHIP. OHIP covers a gastric bypass surgery under specific conditions, including a BMI over 40 or certain obesity-related health issues. However, in some rare cases, OHIP will cover gastric sleeve surgery if there are complications such as severe scar tissue or health conditions like a BMI over 60. For more detailed information, check our guide on "What to Know Before Undergoing Gastric Sleeve Surgery."

While quitting smoking is not mandatory, it is highly recommended for a smoother recovery and safer surgery. Smoking can complicate the healing process, and many patients use this opportunity to quit. We support you with advice, treatments, and medications to help you quit, even if it’s just for 30 days before surgery.

Yes, we offer flexible financing options through Beautifi. Beautifi offers interest-free, online applications with low monthly payments that work with your budget. The process is secure and does not affect your credit score. Learn more about how to apply for financing on our website.

Preparation involves a series of health assessments and consultations with specialists, including blood work, an electrocardiogram, and possibly additional tests based on your individual health needs. You will meet with your surgeon, bariatric nurse, and dietitian to discuss lifestyle changes, diet adjustments, and to ensure you’re ready for the procedure.

Yes! We provide access to a private Facebook group where you can connect with thousands of individuals who have undergone gastric sleeve surgery. You can also be paired with a patient ambassador for a one-on-one connection, gaining insights and support from someone who has walked the path before you.

Eligibility is determined through an assessment of your health and BMI. Ideal candidates typically have a BMI of 30 or higher and may suffer from obesity-related conditions like diabetes, sleep apnea, and high blood pressure. You can use our online eligibility calculator or schedule a consultation for personalized evaluation.

Yes, we typically ask you to follow a special preoperative diet. The main goal is to shrink your liver to ensure a smoother surgery, not for weight loss. This diet usually lasts about two weeks and involves consuming protein shakes and vegetables to prepare your body for the procedure.

Yes, general anesthesia is used during gastric sleeve surgery, so you will be completely asleep and unaware of the procedure.

The surgery itself typically takes under 30 minutes, though the entire process, including anesthesia and recovery time, takes about 45-60 minutes in total.

Gastric sleeve surgery is generally permanent as a large portion of the stomach is removed. While conversion to another procedure, such as gastric bypass, is possible in rare cases, it’s not a common outcome.

During gastric sleeve surgery, a significant portion of the stomach is removed, leaving a smaller, sleeve-like stomach. This reduces food intake and hunger, as the part of the stomach responsible for hunger (ghrelin) is also removed.

When performed by experienced surgeons, gastric sleeve surgery is considered very safe. It has a lower complication rate compared to many common surgeries, such as gallbladder removal or hip replacements.

Most patients can return to work in about a week, though some may need up to two weeks. The recovery is generally quick, with many patients resuming light activities like walking within days. For those who need more time off, we can provide documentation for extended recovery periods.

The removed portion of the stomach is sent to a lab for examination by a pathologist to check for any underlying health conditions.

The gastric sleeve involves removing a large part of the stomach, while the gastric bypass alters the digestive tract by rerouting the intestines. The sleeve is simpler and preserves the natural digestive flow, whereas the bypass has more complex changes and can affect nutrient absorption.

Yes, due to the reduced food intake after surgery, vitamins and supplements are essential to ensure you’re getting the necessary nutrients. You’ll likely take a bariatric multivitamin and calcium with vitamin D daily.

Yes! You can still dine out after surgery, though you’ll need to adjust portion sizes and prioritize protein in your meals. Our dietitians will guide you on how to navigate dining out and make the most of your new eating habits.

Excess skin is a common concern for some patients following significant weight loss. Factors like age, genetics, and the amount of weight lost play a role. If you are concerned, we recommend waiting 12-18 months post-surgery to allow for weight stabilization before considering skin removal surgery.

Most patients lose about 50% of their excess weight in the first six months, with a typical total weight loss of 60-70% within 12-18 months after surgery.

Gastric sleeve surgery has a high success rate, with most patients losing 60-70% of their excess weight within the first year. Many also see improvements or resolution of obesity-related health conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea.

The procedure is done laparoscopically, resulting in about 5 small incisions, each ranging from 5mm to 15mm in size. These are minimally noticeable and generally heal well.

Yes, many patients experience significant improvements in obesity-related health conditions such as diabetes, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, and joint pain following surgery.

While gastric sleeve surgery is generally very effective, some patients may experience mild issues like heartburn or require ongoing supplementation for certain vitamins. However, the overall benefits, including improved health and quality of life, far outweigh these potential concerns.

Yes, you can have children after gastric sleeve surgery, but it is recommended to wait 12-18 months until your weight has stabilized and your body is in the best nutritional condition for a healthy pregnancy.

The gastric sleeve procedure is performed at our private, state-of-the-art surgical facility in Toronto, Ontario, fully accredited by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario.

Many patients begin light cardio exercises like walking within the first week after surgery. We recommend waiting around 6 weeks before engaging in strength training or weightlifting to ensure proper healing.

The surgical staples used during the procedure remain in your body permanently but do not pose any health risks. They are made of titanium and are well-tolerated by the body. They will not interfere with MRI scans or security screening.

The surgical staples used during the procedure remain in your body permanently but do not pose any health risks. They are made of titanium and are well-tolerated by the body. They will not interfere with MRI scans or security screening.