Common VSG side effects include nausea, vomiting, acid reflux, and constipation due to the smaller stomach size. Nutrient deficiencies, like vitamin B12 and iron, may occur if patients don't follow their prescribed supplements. Long-term complications can include weight regain or the development of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Following gastric sleeve surgery, patients adhere to a post-op diet that gradually transitions from liquids to pureed foods, soft foods, and eventually solid meals. High-protein, low-carb meals are recommended to promote healing and support long-term weight loss while avoiding nutrient deficiencies.

For patients with a lower BMI, gastric sleeve surgery can still be an option, but the outcomes and risks may differ from those with a higher BMI. Low-BMI patients often turn to the surgery to address health conditions like metabolic syndrome or diabetes rather than extreme obesity. Reviews from these patients often focus on the subtle, but significant, weight loss and the improvement in overall health. However, there are concerns that lower BMI patients might not experience the same dramatic results as those with... +More

Before-and-after images of gastric sleeve patients highlight not only the weight loss but also the excess skin that may remain, especially in areas like the abdomen. Many patients opt for skin removal surgeries after achieving their weight-loss goals.