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Sleeve Gastrectomy
A sleeve gastrectomy is one of the most commonly performed bariatric procedures worldwide and can be an effective treatment option for people living with obesity and weight-related health conditions. At Intus Dunedin, sleeve gastrectomy forms part of our comprehensive bariatric and weight management service, where surgery is considered alongside medical management, nutrition, psychology, and lifestyle support to help patients achieve sustainable, long-term health improvements.
Who might benefit?
Sleeve gastrectomy may be considered when:
Obesity is affecting your health, mobility or quality of life
Non-surgical treatment(diets or medications) have not provided sufficient or lasting benefit
You have conditions such as type 2 diabetes, sleep apnoea or high blood pressure
Have struggled with repeated weight loss and regain
Are committed to making long-term lifestyle changes following surgery
Have undergone a comprehensive assessment by our bariatric team
The best procedure depends on your health, eating patterns, medications and treatment goals. If you have significant reflux, a gastric bypass may sometimes be more appropriate.
Every patient is different, which is why surgery is only recommended after careful assessment by our multidisciplinary team.
What's Involved in a Sleeve Gastrectomy?
A sleeve gastrectomy, sometimes called a gastric sleeve, is a permanent keyhole operation that can provide significant, long-term weight loss and improve obesity-related health conditions.
During the operation, approximately 75–80% of the stomach is removed, leaving a narrow, sleeve-shaped stomach. This allows people to feel satisfied with smaller portions and changes gut signals involved in hunger, fullness and blood-sugar regulation.
Unlike gastric bypass, the intestine is not rerouted, so food continues to follow its normal pathway through the stomach and intestines.
What to Expect at Intus
At Intus Dunedin, a Sleeve Gastrectomy is delivered as part of a comprehensive bariatric and weight management programme designed to support long-term success.
From your initial assessment through to surgery and ongoing follow-up, you'll be cared for by our multidisciplinary team led by Dr Nigel Rajaretnam.
With access to bariatric nurse specialists, bariatric dietitians, psychologists, surgeons, and dedicated support staff, you'll receive personalised care and ongoing guidance to help you achieve sustainable weight loss and long-term health improvements.
Before your procedure
Before surgery, you'll undergo a comprehensive assessment with the Intus bariatric team, which may include:
Medical assessment
Bariatric nurse consultation
Nutrition assessment
Psychology support where appropriate
Pre-operative investigations
A short pre-operative diet to prepare the liver for surgery
We'll explain every stage of the process and ensure you're fully prepared before your operation.
After your procedure
Recovery continues well beyond surgery.
Patients receive ongoing support from the Intus multidisciplinary team, including:
Regular surgical follow-up
Nutrition advice as food intake progresses
Monitoring of vitamin and mineral requirements
Lifestyle support
Long-term follow-up to support sustainable weight management
Surgery is one part of your journey, with ongoing support helping you achieve lasting health outcomes.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
Our multidisciplinary bariatric team can help you understand whether surgery is the right option for you.
New patients to the Intus Dunedin bariatric service can book a free one-hour consultation with a Bariatric Nurse Specialist to discuss available treatment options, with no obligation to proceed. Contact Intus Dunedin to learn more or book your appointment.
Find A Specialist
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Dr Nigel Rajaretnam
Upper GI, Bariatric, Endocrine & General Surgeon
