Bariatric surgery
Gastric sleeve surgery on the Gold Coast
Sleeve gastrectomy is a permanent surgical treatment that reduces the size of the stomach. Understanding the operation, alternatives, risks and long-term commitments is essential before deciding whether to proceed.
How it works
What is a sleeve gastrectomy?
During laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, a large portion of the stomach is removed and the remaining stomach is shaped into a narrow tube or “sleeve”. This reduces meal capacity and may affect signals involved in hunger and fullness.
The operation permanently changes the stomach. It does not remove the need for balanced nutrition, physical activity, supplementation when advised and long-term clinical follow-up.
Who might discuss gastric sleeve?
A clinician may discuss bariatric surgery with adults whose weight is affecting health and for whom non-surgical treatment has not provided sufficient or durable benefit. BMI is only one part of assessment.
- Medical history and weight-related conditions
- Previous weight management treatment
- Reflux, eating patterns and current medicines
- Readiness for dietary change and follow-up
Risks and limitations
All surgery carries risk. Sleeve-specific discussions may include bleeding, infection, blood clots, staple-line leak, narrowing, reflux, nutritional deficiency, weight regain and the possibility of further procedures.
Your surgeon will explain risks relevant to your health and the alternatives available to you.
Preparing for gastric sleeve surgery
Preparation is individual and may include pathology or other investigations, medication review, nutrition education and steps to reduce anaesthetic and surgical risk. Tell the team about all medicines, supplements, allergies, smoking or vaping, sleep apnoea, previous surgery and pregnancy plans.
Your clinicians will provide procedure-specific instructions about fasting, medicines and the eating plan before surgery. Do not change prescribed medicines without advice from the prescriber or surgical team.
Recovery and staged eating
Following surgery, fluids and food are generally reintroduced in stages under clinical guidance while the stomach heals. Instructions commonly address hydration, protein, wound care, movement, pain and nausea management, and symptoms that require urgent review.
Return to driving, work, lifting and exercise depends on your recovery, medicines and occupation. Follow the individual instructions supplied by the treating team rather than a generic online timeline.
Long-term nutrition and follow-up
Long-term care may include monitoring of nutrition, blood results, supplements, reflux symptoms and weight trajectory. Follow-up also provides an opportunity to address eating tolerance, hydration, emotional wellbeing and changes in health or medicines.
Gastric sleeve questions
Is gastric sleeve permanent?
Yes. A large portion of the stomach is surgically removed. Further surgery can sometimes be considered, but the original removal is permanent.
Can reflux occur after sleeve surgery?
Reflux can develop or worsen in some people. Existing symptoms and investigations should be discussed before choosing a procedure.
Will I need supplements and blood tests?
Nutrition monitoring and supplementation may be advised. Your individual plan depends on your intake, pathology and clinical circumstances.
Can weight return after gastric sleeve?
Weight can change over time after any treatment. Biology, health, medicines, eating patterns, activity and follow-up all influence longer-term outcomes.
Clinically reviewed: Dr Mikhail Mastakov, MD, FRACS, Bariatric and General Surgeon. Reviewed 20 July 2026. This page is general information and does not determine suitability.
Compare pathways
Is sleeve gastrectomy the right discussion for you?
Read the detailed sleeve vs bypass comparison, then discuss appropriate alternatives during consultation.