The goal of gastric sleeve surgery is weight loss, and the most important aspect is the process that continues after the operation. Of course, this varies from person to person, but weight loss can be observed depending on many important details. After gastric sleeve surgery, in which an average of 80% of the stomach is removed, a small, tube-shaped stomach remains. While weight loss continues rapidly in the first 3 months, an average of 50% of excess weight may be lost within 6 months, and an average of 70% of excess weight may be lost within 1 year. During gastric sleeve surgery, the upper part of the stomach is removed. This helps reduce the hormone called Ghrelin, which is located in this area and triggers the feeling of hunger. As Ghrelin levels decrease, patients feel less hungry and continue to feel full for a longer time. In addition, the desire to eat is significantly reduced. This process is especially noticeable during the first 6 months after the procedure.

Post-Operative Weekly Weight Loss Process

A liquid diet is followed during the first 2 weeks after surgery. Meanwhile, the stomach continues its healing process. Since edema and water loss occur during this period, weight loss happens much faster. In addition, patients’ daily calorie intake is low. As a result, the body uses its stored energy, and weight loss continues. Between 2 and 6 weeks, patients begin to consume soft foods. As protein intake increases, fat loss also accelerates. During this period, patients may lose up to an average of 4 kilograms. Of course, this figure may vary depending on the dietary practices followed after the operation.

The period between 2 and 6 months after gastric sleeve surgery is referred to as the golden period. This is because it is when the greatest amount of weight loss occurs. While metabolism speeds up, fat burning continues at its highest level. In addition, the body begins to take shape. Half of the total excess weight may also be lost during the first 2 to 6 months. During the 6 to 12 month period, weight loss continues more slowly, while the goal is to preserve muscle mass. In addition, the body begins to adapt to the new phase. By the end of the 1st year, weight tends to stabilize. The process then develops depending on the individual’s lifestyle.

According to Which Factors Does Weight Loss Progress?

Although each individual loses weight at a different pace, there are certain factors that affect this process. Among metabolic factors, age, gender, and genetic makeup, and in terms of health status, conditions such as thyroid diseases, type 2 diabetes, and insulin resistance affect weight loss. Of course, eating habits also continue to directly affect this period. In fact, achieving successful results after the operation depends on nutrition. Eliminating sugar consumption, following a protein-based diet, and avoiding carbonated drinks are very important. Physical activity also continues to positively affect weight loss. Exercise prevents muscle loss, speeds up metabolism, and increases fat burning.

Is Weight Regain Possible After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Weight regain may occur after gastric sleeve surgery. The biggest reason for this is nutritional mistakes. Even though the stomach becomes smaller after surgery, patients who snack frequently, consume high-calorie foods, and continue eating junk food may gain weight. Chips, chocolate, pastries, and sugary drinks, along with sweetened coffee, fruit juice, and carbonated drinks, trigger weight gain. In addition, if exercise is not done, muscle loss begins, fat is stored, and metabolism slows down. As a result, stomach expansion alone does not cause weight gain, but negative outcomes may occur as a result of poor nutrition. The risky period is the 12 to 18 month period after surgery. After the 2nd year, individuals who do not maintain a regular diet and do not exercise may move out of the weight loss period and enter the weight regain process.