Gastric Sleeve
What is a Gastric Sleeve?
The Gastric Sleeve, also known as Sleeve Gastrectomy, is a minimally invasive weight loss procedure that permanently reduces the size of the stomach by around 75–80%.
By creating a smaller, narrow tube-shaped stomach, this procedure limits how much food you can eat and helps reduce hunger by lowering the production of the hormone ghrelin—often called the “hunger hormone.”
As a result, patients feel full sooner, eat smaller portions, and experience significant and sustained weight loss, while also improving their overall health and energy levels.
Why is Gastric Sleeve Surgery Performed?
Gastric Sleeve surgery is an effective option for individuals who:
- Have a BMI of 35 or higher, or a BMI of 30–34 with obesity-related conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnoea.
- Have struggled to achieve lasting results through traditional diet and exercise methods.
- Are seeking a permanent and effective weight loss solution.
- Want to improve quality of life and reduce the risk of serious obesity-related diseases.
Beyond weight loss, many patients experience improvements in blood sugar control, cholesterol, joint pain, fertility, and overall confidence.
- Preparing for Gastric Sleeve Surgery
- During the Procedure
- Recovery and Aftercare
Preparing for Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Proper preparation is essential for a safe procedure and smooth recovery.
Before surgery, patients will:
Obtain a referral to see Dr Christian Ibraheem.
Attend a detailed consultation, where Dr Ibraheem will review your medical history, discuss your weight loss goals, and confirm your suitability for the procedure.
Follow a pre-operative diet plan, typically a low-calorie, high-protein plan for two to three weeks to prepare the liver and reduce surgical risk.
Avoid smoking and alcohol, as both can affect healing and increase complications.
Arrange post-surgery support, such as assistance at home during your initial recovery.
Complete any required medical tests, including blood work or imaging, as advised by Dr Ibraheem.
During the Procedure
Gastric Sleeve surgery is performed laparoscopically—using a few small incisions, a camera, and specialised instruments, which results in less pain, smaller scars, and faster recovery.
Around 75–80% of the stomach is carefully removed, leaving a narrow, tube-shaped “sleeve.”
The procedure takes approximately 60 minutes under general anaesthesia.
Patients typically remain in hospital for one to two days for monitoring and recovery.
This minimally invasive approach reduces downtime and allows for a quicker return to normal activity compared to traditional open surgery.
Post-Surgery Care and Recovery
Recovery from Gastric Sleeve surgery is typically smooth and well-tolerated.
Patients may experience mild nausea, discomfort, or fatigue during the first few days, which subsides as the body adjusts.
A structured diet progression plan is followed—starting with clear liquids, then moving to pureed foods, soft meals, and eventually balanced, portion-controlled meals.
Most patients can resume light activities within a few days and gradually increase exercise after medical clearance.
Regular follow-ups with Dr Ibraheem and his team ensure ongoing monitoring of weight loss, nutrition, and wellbeing.
Commitment to a healthy lifestyle, including mindful eating and regular physical activity, is key to maintaining long-term results and improving overall health.
Why Choose Dr Christian?
Selecting the right surgeon is a deeply personal choice, and with Dr Christian Ibraheem, you can feel confident you’ve made the right one. Australian-trained with advanced fellowships in both weight loss and general surgery, Dr Ibraheem combines exceptional technical expertise with genuine care for his patients.
Known for his open communication and tailored approach, he ensures every patient feels informed, supported, and fully involved in their treatment journey. Dr Ibraheem takes the time to understand each person’s goals and explains every option clearly so decisions are made with confidence.
With qualifications in both medicine and pharmaceutical science, he brings a well-rounded understanding to every procedure. Whether managing complex surgeries or routine treatments, his focus remains on safety, precision, and lasting wellbeing, helping his patients move forward with trust and peace of mind.
A healthier, happier you starts with a conversation
Whether you’re considering general surgery, weight loss surgery, or exploring non-surgical options, Dr Christian Ibraheem and his team take the time to understand your goals, assess your health, and guide you toward the most effective path forward.
Book your consultation today and take the first confident step toward lasting change.