Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Mérida

Dr. Montserrat Monroy · Board-Certified Bariatric Surgeon (CMCG)
Last medical review: July 2026

What Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Gastric sleeve surgery, also called vertical sleeve gastrectomy, is a bariatric and metabolic procedure generally performed laparoscopically. A portion of the stomach is removed to create a narrower, sleeve-shaped stomach.

The operation reduces the amount of food that can be eaten and changes signals related to hunger, fullness, and metabolism. It does not bypass the intestine or alter the natural route of food.

Gastric sleeve is part of a comprehensive obesity treatment plan. Procedure selection, expected outcomes, and follow-up are determined individually during medical assessment.

Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery

For appropriately selected patients, potential benefits may include:

• Meaningful and sustained weight loss with medical, nutrition, and lifestyle follow-up.
• Improvement in obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and obstructive sleep apnea.
• Improved mobility, ability to be physically active, and quality of life.
• A procedure that does not require intestinal bypass.
• A laparoscopic approach using small abdominal incisions in most cases.

Benefits and risks must be reviewed individually. Long-term outcomes also depend on nutrition, physical activity, and postoperative follow-up.

Who Is a Candidate for Gastric Sleeve?

Bariatric surgery is not indicated by weight alone. A comprehensive assessment includes BMI, obesity-related conditions, medical and surgical history, eating patterns, medications, nutritional status, and each patient's goals and expectations.

In general, bariatric and metabolic surgery may be considered for people with:

• A BMI of 35 kg/m² or higher, including those without obesity-related conditions.
• A BMI of 30 to 34.9 kg/m² with metabolic disease related to obesity when non-surgical treatment has not achieved an adequate result.
• Obesity associated with type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, dyslipidemia, fatty liver disease, or other related conditions.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease requires special consideration because it can influence the choice between gastric sleeve and other procedures. The final decision follows an individualized assessment. Learn about general bariatric surgery candidacy criteria.

How Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery Performed?

The procedure is usually performed laparoscopically through small abdominal incisions. Under general anesthesia, the stomach is shaped into a narrow sleeve and the remaining portion is removed.

During surgery:

1. The abdomen is accessed with laparoscopic instruments.
2. A tubular stomach is created while preserving the natural passage of food.
3. The staple line and procedural safety are carefully checked.
4. The small incisions are closed at the end of surgery.

Surgery time varies according to anatomy, surgical history, and the needs of each case.

How Long Is Recovery After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Recovery is progressive. Hospital stay is usually one to two nights, depending on each patient's recovery and the hospital protocol.

After discharge, the individualized care plan includes:

• Staged nutrition and nutrition follow-up.
• Walking and early mobilization as medically advised.
• A gradual return to daily activities, work, and exercise.
• Periodic medical follow-up and vitamin or mineral supplementation when indicated.

Surgical recovery is only the beginning. Ongoing medical, nutrition, and metabolic follow-up is essential for protecting health and maintaining results.

Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery Laparoscopic?

Yes. Gastric sleeve surgery is generally performed laparoscopically through small abdominal incisions. The appropriate approach is determined individually by the treating surgeon.

Can I Travel After Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Mérida?

The appropriate time to travel depends on clinical recovery, the means of transportation, and Dr. Monroy's instructions. Each patient receives individualized postoperative care and follow-up guidance before returning home.