Gastric reduction surgery is performed by an expert surgeon in a medically suitable clinic. The method of implementation varies depending on the type of procedure.

·Gastric Reduction Surgery

Gastric reduction surgery is performed by an expert surgeon in a medically adequate clinic. The method of implementation varies depending on the type of procedure.

Sleeve Gastrectomy

Sleeve gastrectomy is the first option that comes to mind when talking about gastric reduction. This is mainly because the primary and sole aim of this procedure is the reduction of the stomach.

The procedure is done under general anesthesia. Whenever possible, the closed (laparoscopic) method is preferred. In some cases, however, an open surgery might be necessary.

Several incisions, about 4-5, are made in the patient’s abdominal region, through which cameras and medical devices are inserted. The surgery is performed based on the images from the camera.

About 80% of the stomach is removed while preserving the entrance and exit. During this process, a calibration tube is used to prevent blockages or other issues. The remaining portion that the patient will keep is determined using this tube.

The remaining part is then closed off. Leakage and seepage checks are performed at this stage. Once it’s confirmed that there are no issues, the procedure is completed. After being kept under observation for 2 or 3 days, the patient is discharged.

Gastric Bypass

Gastric bypass is considered the most comprehensive gastric reduction surgery. Around 90% of the stomach is removed, leaving a small portion. Additionally, about 2 meters of the small intestine are bypassed.

The procedure is carried out under general anesthesia and using the laparoscopic method. It results in significant changes to the digestive system.

Firstly, a small pouch is created at the junction of the stomach and the esophagus. Then, a portion of the small intestine is bypassed and connected to this pouch. This effectively creates a new stomach.

The larger part of the stomach is also connected to the small intestine. Lastly, the small intestines from both stomachs are connected. This process ensures that digestive fluids produced by the larger part of the stomach continue to be transferred to the intestines. However, the connection to the esophagus is completely severed.

Gastric bypass achieves both stomach reduction and decreased food absorption. This means patients feel full with less food, and only a portion of what they eat gets digested. The rest is eliminated without being digested.

Gastric Balloon (Swallowable Balloon)

Gastric balloon is a non-surgical method. Nevertheless, as it leads to stomach reduction, it is considered within the realm of gastric reduction procedures.

In this method, balloons are placed in the patients’ stomachs. These balloons are filled with air or different types of liquids. This covers a portion of the stomach volume.

Endoscopic methods are used for placing the balloons. An endoscope is used to insert a balloon into the stomach, which is then inflated with a special liquid. Another method involves swallowing the balloon. This method is only applicable for swallowable balloons.

Partially covering a section of the stomach with a balloon helps patients eat less and feel full more quickly. This positively affects the weight loss process.

Gastric balloon is a temporary treatment. Therefore, the balloon needs to be removed after a certain period. In some methods, the balloon is eliminated through the digestive system, requiring no additional procedure. Swallowable balloons have this feature.