Weight Loss Surgery: How Does Gastric Sleeve Surgery Work?

Gastric sleeve surgery (sleeve gastrectomy) is a permanent weight loss procedure that reduces the size of your stomach by about 75–80%. The remaining portion is shaped into a narrow tube, or “sleeve,” which helps you eat less and feel full sooner.

This procedure works in two key ways. First, the smaller stomach limits how much food you can eat. Second, it also lowers the hunger hormone ghrelin, which helps reduce appetite and cravings.

Our weight loss services are offered through Iowa Weight Loss Specialists, part of Iowa Specialty Hospitals & Clinics. With multiple locations across the state, we provide both surgical and non-surgical options to support your health goals.

Call to Schedule: 515-327-2000  Request a Consultation

Gastric Sleeve vs. Gastric Bypass

Gastric sleeve surgery and gastric bypass are both effective weight loss procedures, but they work in different ways.

Gastric bypass changes how your body digests and absorbs nutrients. In contrast, gastric sleeve surgery reduces the size of the stomach without altering digestion, allowing your body to absorb nutrients normally.

With gastric sleeve surgery, patients often experience:

• Eating less without feeling deprived
• Fewer hunger cravings
• A more manageable path to long-term weight loss

The procedure is minimally invasive, so most patients experience less pain, a shorter hospital stay, and a faster recovery.

Iowa Weight Loss Specialists offers gastric sleeve surgery as part of a comprehensive weight management program, along with non-surgical options to support your long-term success.

Advantages of Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Many patients choose gastric sleeve surgery because it offers:

• Significant weight loss (often about 60% of excess weight in the first year)
• Reduced appetite through hormone changes
• Improved health conditions, including:
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • Sleep apnea
  • Joint pain
• Minimally invasive approach with quicker recovery
• Lower risk of complications compared to some other procedures

Who Is a Candidate for Weight Loss Surgery?

Weight loss surgery may be right for you if you:

• Have a BMI of 40 or higher, or
• Have a BMI of 35+ with weight-related health conditions
• Have struggled to lose weight through normal methods
• Are ready to commit to long-term lifestyle changes

Our team will complete a full evaluation to determine if surgery is the right and safe option for you.

What to Expect

1. Initial Consultation

We begin by taking a close look at your overall health, including your medical history, weight loss goals, and any conditions you may have.

2. Pre-Surgery Preparation

You’ll receive guidance on:

• Nutrition and eating habits
• Lifestyle changes
• What to expect before and after surgery

3. Surgery

• Typically takes about 45 minutes
• Performed laparoscopically (minimally invasive)
• Usually requires a one-night hospital stay

4. Recovery

• Most patients return to normal activities within 1–2 weeks
• Mild discomfort is expected but manageable

5. Ongoing Support

Your success doesn’t stop after surgery. We provide:

• Nutrition coaching
• Behavioral health therapy options
• Free informational class
• Support groups
• Medical follow-ups
• Long-term weight management guidance

How Weight Loss Surgery Supports Long-Term Success

Weight loss surgery is not a quick fix; it is a tool to help you build healthier habits.

Our program focuses on:

• Portion control and mindful eating
• Balanced nutrition plans
• Behavioral health support
• Sustainable lifestyle changes

This comprehensive approach helps you lose weight and keep it off.

Weight Loss Treatment Designed Around You

We work with Iowa Weight Loss Specialists to deliver expert, patient-centered care.

Our program includes:

• Nationally recognized bariatric surgeon Dr. Todd Eibes, MD, FACS
• An accredited weight loss center (MBSAQIP Comprehensive Center)
• A full team of:
  • Medical providers
  • Registered dietitians
  • Behavioral health specialists
• Personalized care before, during, and after surgery

We treat every patient with compassion and respect. Our support continues beyond your initial weight loss, helping you maintain your results and build a healthier lifestyle long term.

Common Questions About Weight Loss Surgery

Is weight loss surgery safe?

Yes. Gastric sleeve surgery is a safe, well-studied procedure, especially when performed by experienced surgeons.

How much weight can I lose?

Most patients lose 50–70% of excess body weight within the first year.

Will I need to follow a special diet?

Yes. After surgery, you’ll follow a structured plan to support healing and help your body adjust. Over time, these changes become part of a healthy, balanced lifestyle. 

Can the weight come back?

Long-term success depends on lifestyle habits. With proper support and commitment, many patients maintain their weight loss.

Holistic Weight Loss Support Beyond the Procedure

Long-term weight loss is not just about the procedure. It is about having the right tools, support, and guidance to make lasting change.

Gastric sleeve surgery can give you a strong starting point by reducing hunger and helping you control portions. But real success comes from what happens after surgery, building healthy habits, staying consistent, and having a team that supports you along the way.

If weight loss has felt out of reach, or if health conditions are making it harder to manage on your own, surgery may offer a safer and more effective path forward.

Iowa Weight Loss Specialists offers a wide variety of services, including nutrition coaching and medical weight loss management, which may include prescription weight loss drugs. 

Ready to take the next step?

For more information, please visit our Locations & Hours page.

To find a provider, please visit our Weight Management Providers page.

Call to Schedule: 515-327-2000  Request a Consultation