What is gastric sleeve surgery?

Gastric sleeve surgery, or sleeve gastrectomy, is a form of bariatric surgery where a portion of your stomach is permanently removed. Approximately 80% of the stomach is surgically removed, leaving behind a narrow, sleeve-shaped pouch.

This procedure works by:

• Reducing your hunger (it removes the hunger hormone ghrelin-producing area of the stomach)

• Limiting how much you can eat

• Helping improve metabolic conditions like type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, and high blood pressure

It’s one of the most commonly performed obesity surgeries in Melbourne and globally due to its safety, straightforward procedure, and long-term effectiveness.

Is gastric sleeve surgery right for you?

You may be asking yourself, how can I determine if gastric sleeve surgery is the right option for me?

Start with the basics of gastric sleeve eligibility:

• A BMI of 30 or above with an obesity-related condition (e.g., diabetes, hypertension),

• A BMI over 35, even without comorbidities

• Previous efforts for weight loss through diet, exercise, or medical programs

• A genuine commitment to maintaining long-term lifestyle changes

While BMI is an important factor, it's not the only consideration. At our weight loss centre, we take a comprehensive approach, evaluating your motivation, lifestyle habits, support system, and long-term goals. We also take into account the pre-clinical and clinical obesity effects in an individual. Surgery marks the start of your journey; lasting change occurs through ongoing commitment and support.

Who Is Not Suitable for Gastric Sleeves? 

Here are some conditions where you may need further pre-surgery support and may need further assessment from a variety of specialists

• Untreated psychological conditions like severe depression, eating disorders, or unmanaged anxiety

• Alcohol or substance dependency

• Uncontrolled medical conditions (e.g., recent heart attack, advanced liver disease)

• Patients unwilling to commit to follow-up care or lifestyle changes

If you're not prepared or willing to partner with this surgery to make lasting changes to your eating habits, physical activity, and overall approach to health, gastric sleeve surgery may not deliver the desired results.

How to Know If You’re Ready for Surgery?

Here’s a quick gastric sleeve suitability checklist we use during patient assessments:

• Your BMI meets clinical guidelines

• You’ve made multiple attempts at non-surgical weight loss

• You understand the risks, benefits, and commitments involved

• You’re mentally and emotionally prepared

• You have a strong support network or are open to building one

• You’re committed to lifelong follow-up and nutritional care

If you meet most or all of these criteria, it may be ideal to schedule a comprehensive evaluation with our team.

Concerns to Address Before Surgery

It is important to address medical, behavioural, and psychological factors that may need attention before moving forward with surgery.

Here’s what we’ll examine during your bariatric surgery evaluation:

• Medical Preparation

• Blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, liver and kidney function

• Sleep studies for sleep apnea

• Heart and lung fitness

• Behavioural Patterns

• Eating habits: binge eating, emotional eating, night eating

• Physical activity routines

• Smoking, vaping or alcohol use

• Mental Health

• Past or present mental health conditions

• Your coping mechanisms and resilience

• Body image, self-esteem, and support system

Our goal is to ensure you're not only physically prepared but also mentally and emotionally equipped to take this transformative step towards better health. If you want to learn the complete guide to preparing for gastric sleeve surgery, our team is here to help and assist. 

Questions to Ask Before Making a Decision

Patients often ask, What should I ask my bariatric surgeon?

 Here’s what we recommend:

• What results can I realistically expect over 6, 12, and 24 months?

• What are the risks or complications specific to my health profile?

• What’s the post-op follow-up schedule like?

• What type of support—dietitians, habits coach or physiotherapists- will I need?

These discussions help align your expectations with the realities of the journey ahead and ensure you feel supported and confident during your weight loss journey. 

Take Away 

Gastric sleeve surgery isn’t a quick fix; it’s a medically structured solution designed for individuals who meet specific eligibility criteria and are prepared to commit to lasting lifestyle changes. If you’ve struggled with weight loss, have a BMI of 30 or higher, and are managing conditions such as diabetes, sleep apnea, or hypertension, this procedure may be the right step forward. However, success also requires a lifelong commitment to new habits around nutrition, movement, and self-care.

At Dr. Niruben Rajasangaram’s clinic, we take a personalised, holistic approach, assessing not just your physical health but also your psychological condition and long-term goals. From your initial consultation through to post-surgery care, you’ll receive guidance from a dedicated team that values safety, transparency, and sustainable results.

Dr. Niruben Rajasagaram is a Melbourne-based bariatric and general surgeon with extensive experience in sleeve gastrectomy and patient-centred obesity care. He leads a reliable multidisciplinary team that includes:

• Accredited dietitian

• Habits Coach

• Specialist team

• Post-op support services

We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. From your initial consultation to long-term follow-up, your treatment is completely personalised. We recognise the mental, emotional, and physical aspects of sustainable weight loss, and we’re here to support you every step of the journey.

If you’re ready to take control of your health, we’re here to support you every step of the way. 

Contact our weight loss centre today.