Gastric sleeve surgery is one of the most commonly performed bariatric procedures used to help people living with obesity achieve significant weight loss and improve their long-term health.
Also known as sleeve gastrectomy, the procedure involves removing approximately 80% of the stomach, leaving behind a smaller, narrow stomach.
As a result, the stomach has a much smaller capacity, helping patients feel satisfied with smaller portions. In addition, the surgery produces hormonal changes related to hunger, fullness, and metabolism.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Renato Landa
Bariatric Surgeon | CMP No. 59085 | RNE No. 26919
Last reviewed: August 2026
How Does Gastric Sleeve Surgery Work?
Gastric sleeve surgery is performed laparoscopically under general anesthesia.
During the procedure, the surgeon works through small abdominal incisions and removes approximately 80% of the stomach. The remaining portion forms a much smaller, tube-shaped stomach.
Unlike gastric bypass surgery, gastric sleeve surgery does not reroute the intestines. Therefore, food continues to travel from the stomach into the small intestine through the normal digestive pathway.
After surgery:
✓ Less food is needed to feel satisfied.
✓ Hunger and appetite may decrease.
✓ Hormonal and metabolic changes occur.
✓ Weight loss may improve obesity-related health conditions.
It is important to understand that the removed portion of the stomach is permanently taken out of the body. Therefore, gastric sleeve surgery is not reversible.
Who Is a Candidate for Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Today, the decision to undergo bariatric surgery is not based solely on a person’s weight.
Current international guidelines recommend metabolic and bariatric surgery for people with a BMI of 35 or higher, regardless of whether obesity-related medical conditions are present.
Additionally, bariatric surgery is recommended for patients with type 2 diabetes and a BMI of 30 or higher.
For people with a BMI between 30 and 34.9, surgery may also be considered when non-surgical methods have not achieved significant and lasting weight loss or sufficient improvement in obesity-related health conditions.
However, every patient is different. Therefore, the evaluation also considers BMI, weight history, diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, acid reflux, eating habits, previous weight-loss treatments, and overall health.
Gastric Sleeve vs. Gastric Bypass
Both gastric sleeve and gastric bypass are well-established and effective bariatric procedures. However, there are important differences between them.
| Feature | Gastric Sleeve | Gastric Bypass |
|---|---|---|
| Stomach | Approx. 80% is removed | A small stomach pouch is created |
| Intestines | Not rerouted | Digestive pathway is rerouted |
| Nutrient absorption | Less alteration | Greater alteration |
| Complexity | Generally less complex | Generally more complex |
| Acid reflux | May develop or worsen | May be beneficial for some patients with reflux |
| Type 2 diabetes | Can significantly improve | Has an important metabolic effect |
| Vitamins & minerals | Monitoring and supplementation are required | Greater risk of certain nutritional deficiencies |
| Reversible? | No | Reversal may be possible in selected cases, but requires complex surgery |
Which Is Better: Gastric Sleeve or Gastric Bypass?
There is no single bariatric procedure that is best for everyone. The right choice depends on each patient’s health, medical history, and individual needs.
For example, gastric sleeve surgery has the advantage of not rerouting the intestines and generally results in simpler postoperative anatomy.
However, acid reflux is an important consideration. Gastric sleeve surgery can sometimes cause new gastroesophageal reflux or make existing reflux worse. Therefore, gastric bypass may be a more appropriate option for certain patients with significant reflux.
Similarly, gastric bypass has a strong metabolic effect and may offer advantages for some patients with type 2 diabetes.
For these reasons, the choice between gastric sleeve and gastric bypass should be made after an individual evaluation with a bariatric surgeon.
How Much Weight Can You Lose With a Gastric Sleeve?
There is no exact number of pounds or kilograms that can be guaranteed.
Weight loss varies according to factors such as starting weight, metabolism, eating habits, physical activity, and how closely patients follow their medical and nutritional recommendations.
Furthermore, it is important to understand that surgery does not work in isolation. Gastric sleeve surgery is a powerful tool that can make weight loss easier, while healthier eating habits, regular physical activity, and professional follow-up are essential for maintaining results over the long term.
Therefore, during your consultation, we prefer to discuss realistic and personalized goals rather than promise a specific amount of weight loss.
Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery
For appropriately selected patients, the benefits of bariatric surgery can extend far beyond weight loss.
Significant weight loss may help improve:
✓ Type 2 diabetes.
✓ High blood pressure.
✓ Obstructive sleep apnea.
✓ High cholesterol and other metabolic conditions.
✓ Mobility and weight-related joint discomfort.
✓ Cardiovascular risk factors.
✓ Overall quality of life.
Nevertheless, every patient responds differently, and specific results cannot be guaranteed.
What Is Recovery Like After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
After gastric sleeve surgery, your new stomach needs time to heal and adapt.
Initially, patients follow a liquid diet. Then, different food textures are gradually introduced according to the recommendations of the bariatric team.
In addition, long-term follow-up is an important part of treatment. This generally includes medical checkups, nutritional guidance, gradual physical activity, laboratory testing, and appropriate vitamin and mineral supplementation.
Although gastric sleeve surgery does not reroute the intestines, nutritional deficiencies can still occur. Therefore, ongoing monitoring after surgery is important for protecting your long-term health.
How Much Does Gastric Sleeve Surgery Cost in Peru?
The cost of gastric sleeve surgery in Lima can vary according to each patient’s individual needs and surgical requirements.
For this reason, we recommend that patients avoid choosing bariatric surgery based solely on price.
Before providing a final quotation, Dr. Renato Landa evaluates your medical history, BMI, previous treatments, and any health conditions that may affect your surgery.
This allows us to provide a treatment recommendation and quotation based on your individual case rather than offering a one-size-fits-all package.
Dr. Renato Landa, Bariatric Surgeon in Lima
Dr. Renato Landa is a surgeon specializing in bariatric surgery and comprehensive weight management.
He holds a Master’s Degree in Obesity Surgery from Universidad Francisco de Vitoria in Madrid, Spain, in addition to specialized training in laparoscopic gastric and bariatric surgery.
His treatments include:
✓ Laparoscopic gastric sleeve surgery.
✓ Gastric bypass surgery.
✓ Intragastric balloon.
✓ Medically supervised weight-loss treatments.
Having both surgical and non-surgical options available allows each patient to be properly evaluated before a treatment is recommended.
Dr. Renato Landa
CMP No. 59085 | RNE No. 26919
📍 Lima, Peru
Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Peru for International Patients
If you live outside Peru and are considering traveling to Lima for gastric sleeve surgery, our team can help you plan the process before your trip.
As a first step, you can arrange a virtual consultation with Dr. Renato Landa. This allows you to discuss your medical history, previous weight-loss treatments, current health, and goals before traveling to Peru.
After your initial evaluation, our team can guide you through the next steps, including the necessary evaluations and planning for your treatment in Lima.
This can make the process much easier for international patients who would like to understand their options before confirming their travel arrangements.
Schedule Your Bariatric Consultation in Lima
Book a consultation and receive a personalized medical evaluation. Together we’ll develop a treatment plan tailored to your health, lifestyle and long-term goals.
Ask us anything by WhatsApp and schedule your appointments directly.
Dr. Renato Landa, MD, is a physician and surgeon specializing in bariatric surgery and comprehensive weight management.
CMP N.° 59085 | RNE N.° 26919
📍 Available at our Lince branch with Dr Renato Landa, bariatric surgeon.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gastric Sleeve Surgery
❓ How much of the stomach is removed during gastric sleeve surgery?
Approximately 80% of the stomach is generally removed. The remaining portion forms a much smaller, tube-shaped stomach.
❓ Is gastric sleeve surgery reversible?
No. Because a large portion of the stomach is permanently removed from the body, gastric sleeve surgery cannot be reversed.
❓ Are the intestines changed during gastric sleeve surgery?
No. Unlike gastric bypass, gastric sleeve surgery does not reroute the intestines. Food continues through the normal intestinal pathway.
❓ Which is better, gastric sleeve or gastric bypass?
It depends on the individual patient. BMI, diabetes, acid reflux, medical history, eating habits, and weight-loss goals are some of the factors that should be considered before choosing a procedure.
❓ Can gastric sleeve surgery improve type 2 diabetes?
Yes. In some patients, significant weight loss and the metabolic changes that occur after gastric sleeve surgery can substantially improve the management of type 2 diabetes.
❓ Can I have gastric sleeve surgery after using Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro?
Previous use of semaglutide, tirzepatide, or other weight-loss medications does not automatically prevent someone from having bariatric surgery. However, it is important to tell your surgeon about all medications you currently use or have recently used so that you can receive appropriate instructions before surgery.
❓ Where can I have gastric sleeve surgery in Lima, Peru?
At Surgery in Peru, you can arrange an evaluation for gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. Renato Landa in Lima. We also offer initial virtual consultations for international patients and people living outside Lima.