Expected weight loss after gastric sleeve will depend on the unique circumstances of the individual. While personal circumstances will always be the biggest determining factor, this article provides some context for expected weight loss after gastric sleeve surgery, timelines for weight loss, and things that can be done to ensure that the weight stays off for good.
Table of contents
- How long does it take to lose weight
- How much weight can I expect to lose
- Factors that influence weight loss
- Do patients ever gain back the weight after surgery?
- Tips to ensure long term results
How long does it take to lose weight after gastric sleeve surgery?
It’s common to start losing weight early on - as early as the week of the surgery. During the first month, patients will be kept on a post-surgery diet of liquids and pureed foods to help the stomach recover from the procedure and adjust to the new eating habits. This sudden change produces a drastic change in the body, with most patients losing an average of 2.5 kg per week in the first month.
This rapid weight loss will continue throughout the first six months after surgery, after which the rate of weight loss gradually slowing down over time. Patients will consistently lose weight up to 55% of their excess weight at the six-month mark.
How much weight (on average) do patients lose after gastric sleeve surgery?
Studies from gastric sleeve surgery procedures show that patients lose between 60-70% of their excess body weight* on average. This average of 60-70% works out to a general range of 25-35% loss in overall body weight.
The effectiveness of gastric sleeve surgery for weight loss will vary from individual to individual, some patients can lose over 80% of their excess weight over a period of a year and a half.
Beyond the 18-month mark, patients’ weight will start to stabilise as the body reaches a new balance of calorie intake from food and energy expenditure according to lifestyle.
* Excess body weight is defined as the difference between a patient’s current weight and their ideal weight.
Factors that can influence weight loss after surgery
Age
Younger patients are more likely to experience more significant weight loss than older patients due to a higher level of metabolism. A higher rate of metabolism allows the body to process food and nutrient intake much faster, leading to more weight loss overall.
Gender
Gastric sleeve studies show that males generally lose more weight than females after gastric sleeve surgery, but also show that both men and women have the potential for achieving substantial and lasting weight loss.
Excess weight
Patients with a greater amount of excess weight prior to gastric sleeve surgery historically lose more weight. That being said, the risks and related health conditions of being excessively overweight can impact the rate of weight loss.
Extent of lifestyle changes
Adhering to the recommended lifestyle changes provided by doctors and nutritionists will increase the effectiveness of weight loss from gastric sleeve surgery. Sticking to the proper diet, regular exercise, and attending post-surgery checkups all contribute to the outcome of weight loss.
Do patients ever gain back the weight after surgery?
It is possible for patients to regain the weight they have lost from gastric sleeve surgery. Regaining a small amount of weight after a period of 1-2 years is normal and typically happens as patients adjust to a new lifestyle. This is part of the body’s attempt to recover a balanced weight from the rapid weight loss in the years before.
However, some patients can regain a larger portion of the weight they lost as a result of gastric sleeve surgery. This is not intended and is usually due to a failure to adhere to the lifestyle changes recommended by medical professionals.
What patients can do to get the best outcome from surgery
Gastric sleeve surgery is not a one-and-done kind of procedure — the drastic changes involved are designed to kickstart the weight loss journey and provide the body with the right conditions to achieve substantial weight loss. A large part of the journey comes down to the individual to make conscious decisions to change eating and lifestyle habits.
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Stay active: Regular exercise aids the body in shedding excess weight during the first six months after surgery, as well as keeping off weight gain in the long term. Exercise can be as simple as walking and cycling or more intensive activities like aerobics or strength training.
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Stick to small portion sizes: Eating in smaller sittings will help to keep food intake to a manageable level. This will also prevent stretching of the new stomach, which can negate the outcome of gastric sleeve surgery.
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Maintain a healthy diet: Include nutrient-rich foods in meals to ensure that your body receives what it needs to stay healthy. Avoid sugary, oily, or fried foods as these can not only cause weight gain but also side effects like dumping syndrome.
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Manage stress levels: Stress is a known contributor to weight gain. Find strategies to help yourself manage stress, or seek help from a professional therapist if necessary.
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Get sufficient sleep: Sleeping well will allow your body sufficient time to go through its processes and prevent unexpected weight gain.