Month by Month Weight Loss Process After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Sleeve gastrectomy offers an effective solution for those looking to shed excess weight. Patients experience significant weight loss following this surgical procedure. The weight loss process begins from the first month and continues to improve with the adjustments followed post-surgery.

Patients generally lose a substantial portion of their excess weight within the first year. Consequently, this process also contributes to the alleviation of many health issues. Thus, sleeve gastrectomy can be a critical step in combating obesity.

Table of Content

Month 1: Rapid Change and Initial Steps

The first month after sleeve gastrectomy is the most intense period of transformation for patients. During this phase, while the body adapts to the new condition, the diet also changes significantly.
The patients’ diet primarily consists of liquid and pureed foods. This type of diet allows the body to lose weight faster and more effectively. On average, patients can lose about five kilograms per week.

Diet: Liquid and pureed foods
Weekly weight loss: Approximately five kilograms

Male patients typically lose weight faster during this process compared to females. By the end of the second month, some patients may have lost 20% of their excess weight. This rapid start increases motivation and contributes to a positive post-surgery process.

Month 3: Active Weight Loss Period

During this phase, the patient has largely completed the post-surgery recovery process. They now have enough energy and strength to participate in daily activities.
The third month is considered a significant milestone in combating obesity because the body starts to respond more quickly and effectively to the diet and exercise programs implemented. The success of the weight loss process increases when considering the following factors:

Strict adherence to customized diet plans provided by the obesity clinic
Regular exercise

During this period, up to 35% of the total excess weight can be reduced. Especially, the discipline in diet and physical activity maximizes weight loss during this period.

Month 6: Ongoing Weight Loss Process After Sleeve Gastrectomy

Six months after the surgery, the weight loss process slows down; however, significant progress continues. Following the rapid weight loss in the initial months, weight loss during this period occurs at about two kilograms per week. By the sixth month, patients typically have lost more than half of their total excess weight. This success is due to:

Consistent diet practices,
Regular exercise programs,
Permanent lifestyle changes.

The weight loss achieved at this stage results in visible improvements in energy levels and overall mood. This process helps patients adapt to their new lifestyles.

Year 1: Post-Sleeve Gastrectomy

The first year following sleeve gastrectomy marks a significant turning point in the patients’ weight loss journey. During this period, many patients successfully lose about 65% of their preoperative weight. The process also creates positive impacts on health:

Noticeable improvements in diabetes management,
Reductions in blood pressure levels,
Decreased risk of stroke.

On the path to reaching the target weight, patients must strictly adhere to the post-surgery recommended diet and exercise programs. Regular consultations with healthcare professionals during this period are crucial for achieving weight loss goals.
Moreover, to avoid regaining the lost weight, it is necessary to make lifestyle changes permanent. In summary, the first year of sleeve gastrectomy has a transformative effect both physically and health-wise.

18 Months Post-Surgery: Sleeve Gastrectomy and Sustainable Weight Management

Eighteen months after sleeve gastrectomy, patients typically lose up to 80% of their excess weight. The successful weight loss achieved during this period significantly improves the patient’s quality of life.
By the end of two years, more than half of the patients report maintaining permanent weight loss, while a small group may experience complications. Maintaining weight loss during this process depends on:

The quality of preoperative education,
Commitment to behavioral changes,
Sustaining learned practices post-surgery.

Patients who abandon the weight loss process early (around six months) are more likely to regain the weight. Therefore, patients need to effectively use the necessary tools for successful outcomes. In the long run, this strategic approach maximizes the success of sleeve gastrectomy and ensures permanent weight control.

Will the Weight Return After Surgery?

The weight loss process after sleeve gastrectomy is not limited to surgery alone. Indeed, this process continues based on the patient’s lifestyle changes. Long-term success requires individual efforts and regular follow-ups. Patients can successfully manage their weight post-surgery by maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Changing eating habits is mandatory:

Prefer high-protein foods
Avoid processed foods
Ensure adequate water intake

An exercise routine helps with weight control:

Take daily light walks
Perform strength training several times a week

Additionally, regular doctor check-ups and dietitian consultations support the healthy progress of the weight loss process. Post-surgery weight management requires a disciplined lifestyle. Not reverting to old habits is the key to success in this process. Thus, patients can maintain the benefits of the surgery for a long time.