Gastric Sleeve

(Sleeve Gastrectomy)

A precise surgical reduction of stomach capacity to create a smaller, sleeve-shaped stomach, promoting significant weight loss through restricted food intake and hormonal changes while preserving normal digestive function for sustainable long-term results.

A gastric sleeve procedure, also called sleeve gastrectomy, is a transformative surgical intervention that permanently reduces the size of the stomach to help achieve significant weight loss. At our practice, we understand that the decision to pursue bariatric surgery comes after a long journey of weight management challenges and careful consideration. That's why we're committed to providing compassionate, expert care while helping you understand each step of your weight loss journey.

This effective procedure helps patients with obesity achieve substantial and sustainable weight loss by creating a smaller stomach that restricts food intake while also reducing hunger hormones. At Lifetime Surgical, our gastric sleeve approach utilizes the state-of-the-art DaVinci robotic surgical system, offering unmatched precision, enhanced visualization, and superior control compared to traditional laparoscopic techniques. We employ careful surgical planning, precise staple line creation, and comprehensive pre- and post-operative support, resulting in not only significant weight loss but also improvement or resolution of many obesity-related health conditions. The robotic approach provides additional benefits including smaller incisions, reduced post-operative pain, minimal scarring, and faster recovery time. Our multidisciplinary team guides you through the entire process, from pre-surgical preparation through post-operative lifestyle adaptation, ensuring the best possible outcomes for your individual health goals.

Indications & Symptoms

You may be a candidate for gastric sleeve surgery if you:

  • Have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher (extreme obesity)

  • Have a BMI between 35-40 with obesity-related health conditions such as:

    • Type 2 diabetes

    • High blood pressure

    • Sleep apnea

    • Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

    • Osteoarthritis

    • Heart disease

    • Dyslipidemia (high cholesterol or triglycerides)

  • Have made serious attempts at diet and exercise without achieving or maintaining significant weight loss

  • Are prepared to make lifelong changes in eating habits and lifestyle

  • Do not have conditions that would make surgery excessively risky

  • Have realistic expectations about the results of bariatric surgery

  • Are committed to long-term follow-up care

  • Understand the procedure and its potential risks and benefits

  • Have been cleared by psychological evaluation for bariatric surgery

  • Do not have untreated mental health conditions that would interfere with post-surgical adherence

  • Are not dependent on alcohol or illicit drugs

  • For adolescents: have reached physical maturity (typically age 13+ for girls, 15+ for boys)

  • Have no active gastrointestinal ulcers or severe reflux disease that would contraindicate sleeve gastrectomy

  • Are not pregnant or planning pregnancy within the first 18 months after surgery

  • Can demonstrate a history of obesity for at least 3-5 years

Treatment Approach

Our approach to gastric sleeve surgery combines surgical excellence with comprehensive care throughout your weight loss journey. The procedure begins with thorough preoperative assessment including nutritional, psychological, and medical evaluations to ensure you're well-prepared for surgery and the necessary lifestyle changes that follow. What sets us apart is our use of the advanced DaVinci robotic surgical system combined with our multidisciplinary team approach that provides support before, during, and long after your procedure to maximize your success.

The surgery is performed using the DaVinci robotic platform, which offers significant advantages over traditional laparoscopic techniques. The robot's articulating instruments provide enhanced dexterity and range of motion beyond what human hands can achieve, allowing for more precise tissue handling and staple line creation. The system's high-definition 3D visualization gives our surgeon unprecedented views of the surgical field with 10x magnification, enabling meticulous dissection and identification of critical structures.

Using the DaVinci system, we make 4-5 tiny incisions (typically 8mm or smaller) in the abdomen, resulting in minimal scarring compared to traditional approaches. After accessing the abdominal cavity, we carefully divide the attachments along the greater curvature of the stomach and insert a sizing tube to guide the creation of your new stomach. Using specialized surgical staplers with robotic precision, we remove approximately 80% of the stomach, leaving a narrow, banana-shaped "sleeve" that typically holds about 100-150 ml (compared to the original 1.5-liter capacity).

Our distinctive robotic approach includes:

  • Unprecedented surgical precision that ensures a perfectly uniform staple line

  • Enhanced 3D visualization allowing for meticulous tissue handling

  • Reduced tissue trauma leading to less post-operative pain and faster recovery

  • Careful testing of the staple line during surgery to ensure there are no leaks

  • Precise technique that preserves the pyloric valve and normal digestive pathway

  • Attention to the angle of His (where the esophagus meets the stomach) to reduce reflux risk

  • Meticulous staple line reinforcement to minimize bleeding and leak risk

  • Minimal scarring with significantly smaller incisions

The robotic advantage translates to patient benefits including:

  • Reduced post-operative pain

  • Lower risk of complications

  • Shorter hospital stay (often just overnight)

  • Faster return to normal activities

  • Minimal scarring for improved cosmetic results

  • Reduced risk of post-operative hernia

Throughout your care journey, our comprehensive program includes:

  • Detailed nutritional counseling before and after surgery

  • Psychological support for the emotional aspects of significant weight loss

  • Customized exercise plans developed with our exercise physiologists

  • Regular follow-up visits to monitor progress and address any concerns

  • Support groups led by bariatric professionals

  • Long-term monitoring for nutritional deficiencies with appropriate supplementation

This integrated approach combining robotic-assisted surgical excellence with comprehensive care ensures not just successful weight loss but sustained health improvement, addressing the physical, nutritional, and psychological aspects of obesity management for comprehensive, long-term success.

Recovery Guidance

Immediate Post-Procedure (1-3 days)

  • Expect a hospital stay of just 1 day for most patients due to the minimally invasive robotic approach

  • Experience significantly less post-operative pain compared to traditional laparoscopic techniques

  • Begin with clear liquids as directed by your surgical team, typically within hours of surgery

  • Work with nursing staff to ensure adequate hydration

  • Receive instruction on proper breathing exercises to prevent lung complications

  • Begin walking within hours of surgery to prevent blood clots and promote recovery

  • Manage discomfort with prescribed pain medication, which is typically minimal following robotic surgery

  • Experience some shoulder pain from residual CO2 gas used during surgery

  • Understand the importance of not overextending yourself despite feeling well

  • Meet with the dietitian to review your post-operative diet progression

  • Receive detailed discharge instructions about medications, diet, and activity

  • Learn to recognize signs of potential complications requiring immediate attention

  • Understand the importance of maintaining proper hydration (typically 64 oz. daily)

  • Prepare for your first follow-up appointment, typically scheduled 1-2 weeks after surgery

Short-Term Recovery (1-4 weeks)

  • Return to normal activities more quickly than with traditional surgical approaches

  • Resume light physical activity within days rather than weeks

  • Experience minimal discomfort at your small incision sites

  • Follow the prescribed diet progression:

    • Clear liquids (days 1-2)

    • Full liquids (days 3-14)

    • Pureed foods (weeks 3-4)

  • Focus on protein intake, aiming for 60-80 grams daily through protein shakes and supplements

  • Take all prescribed vitamins and minerals as directed

  • Avoid carbonated beverages, caffeine, alcohol, and straws

  • Sip water continuously throughout the day to maintain hydration

  • Begin taking small sips (1-2 oz.) at a time, allowing 30 minutes to consume 8 oz.

  • Attend your follow-up appointment for a wound check and diet advancement

  • Gradually increase walking distance daily

  • Avoid lifting more than 10-15 pounds for 2-3 weeks (shorter restriction than with traditional surgery)

  • Experience continued improvement in surgical discomfort

  • Monitor incision sites for proper healing, which typically occurs faster with smaller robotic incisions

  • Begin to notice significant changes in hunger and satiety cues

  • Track food and fluid intake carefully

  • Report any persistent nausea, vomiting, or inability to stay hydrated

  • Avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

  • Expect rapid weight loss during this period, often 2-4 pounds per week

  • Return to work as early as 1-2 weeks after surgery, depending on job requirements

Long-Term Recovery (1-6 months)

  • Continue advancing your diet according to the program guidelines:

    • Soft foods (months 1-2)

    • Regular, healthy foods with appropriate texture (months 3+)

  • Learn to eat mindfully with small bites, thorough chewing, and stopping at the first sign of fullness

  • Practice separating liquids from meals (typically no liquids 30 minutes before and after meals)

  • Establish regular eating patterns with 3 small, protein-focused meals daily

  • Begin a structured exercise program as cleared by your surgeon, typically after 3-4 weeks (earlier than with traditional approaches)

  • Attend regular follow-up appointments to monitor weight loss progress

  • Have laboratory tests to check for nutritional deficiencies

  • Continue taking recommended vitamin and mineral supplements

  • Participate in support group meetings

  • Adjust to significant body changes, both physical and emotional

  • Learn to recognize and manage "head hunger" versus physical hunger

  • Establish sustainable eating habits for long-term success

  • Monitor for proper hydration and protein intake

  • Experience continued weight loss, typically 8-12 pounds per month during this period

  • Begin to notice improvement or resolution of obesity-related health conditions

  • Work with the bariatric team to address any challenges or plateaus

  • Appreciate the minimal scarring from your robotic procedure as incisions continue to fade

Long-Term Expectations

  • Expect to lose approximately 60-70% of excess body weight within 12-18 months

  • Weight loss typically stabilizes around 18-24 months post-surgery

  • Maintain regular follow-ups with the bariatric program:

    • Every 3 months during the first year

    • Every 6 months during the second year

    • Annually thereafter

  • Continue lifelong vitamin and mineral supplementation, typically including:

    • Multivitamin

    • Calcium citrate with vitamin D

    • Vitamin B12

    • Iron (for menstruating women)

  • Undergo regular laboratory testing to monitor for nutritional deficiencies

  • Expect significant improvement or resolution of many obesity-related conditions:

    • Type 2 diabetes (70-80% resolution)

    • Hypertension (70% improvement or resolution)

    • Sleep apnea (80% improvement or resolution)

    • Joint pain (70% improvement)

    • Improved fertility and reduced pregnancy complications

  • Maintain healthy eating habits and regular physical activity for lasting results

  • Some weight regain (5-10%) after 2 years is normal and not considered failure

  • Possibility of excess skin depending on amount of weight lost and individual factors

  • Potential for body contouring procedures after weight stabilization if desired

  • Lifetime commitment to the bariatric program for optimal long-term success

  • Continued focus on psychological adaptation to significant body changes

  • Most patients report substantial improvement in quality of life and self-esteem

  • Annual check-ups remain important for long-term success monitoring

  • Nearly invisible scarring thanks to the small incisions used in robotic surgery

Potential Risks

Common Side Effects

  • Surgical discomfort for 1-2 weeks, typically less pronounced than with traditional surgery

  • Temporary food intolerances, especially to dense proteins or dry foods

  • Hair thinning or loss during the rapid weight loss phase (typically resolves after 6-12 months)

  • Fatigue during the initial rapid weight loss period

  • Change in bowel habits (usually temporary)

  • Minor acid reflux or heartburn

  • Temporary difficulty tolerating cold temperatures

  • Feeling of restriction when eating too quickly or taking too large of bites

  • Nausea when overeating or not chewing adequately

  • Temporary taste changes

  • Mild dehydration requiring conscious effort to maintain fluid intake

  • Development of food preferences or aversions

  • Temporary menstrual irregularities in women during rapid weight loss

  • Dizziness from rapid movement (orthostatic hypotension)

  • Psychological adjustment to rapid body changes

Less Common Complications

  • Staple line leak (occurs in <1% of patients with robotic approach, lower than traditional techniques)

  • Bleeding requiring transfusion or reoperation (<1% with robotic precision)

  • Stenosis or narrowing of the sleeve (1%)

  • Severe or persistent gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

  • Wound infection requiring antibiotics or drainage (reduced risk with smaller robotic incisions)

  • Nutritional deficiencies despite supplementation

  • Gallstone formation during rapid weight loss

  • Small bowel obstruction from adhesions

  • Incisional hernia at port sites (significantly reduced with robotic approach)

  • Persistent nausea or vomiting

  • Gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying)

  • Port site infection requiring antibiotics or intervention

  • Venous thromboembolism (blood clots)

  • Dumping syndrome (less common than with gastric bypass)

  • Persistent abdominal pain requiring evaluation

  • Conversion to open procedure (extremely rare with robotic approach)

  • Development of or worsening of depression during adjustment period

  • Excessive weight loss or malnutrition

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

  • Persistent vomiting or inability to tolerate fluids for 24 hours

  • Severe abdominal pain that is getting worse rather than better

  • Fever over 101°F (38.3°C)

  • Heart rate over 120 beats per minute at rest

  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

  • Chest pain or rapid breathing

  • Severe, uncontrolled diarrhea

  • Excessive bleeding from incision sites

  • Increasing abdominal distension or bloating

  • Drainage of pus or foul-smelling fluid from an incision

  • Calf pain, swelling, or redness (potential blood clot)

  • Severe, persistent nausea

  • Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)

  • Dark, tarry stools or bright red blood in stool

  • Persistent hiccups that don't resolve

  • Increasing redness, warmth, or drainage at incision sites

  • Confusion or extreme lethargy

  • Severe heartburn unrelieved by medications

Experience Speaks

Dr. Nguyen’s Insights: Gastric Sleeve & Gastric Bypass

Drawing from thousands of successful bariatric procedures, Dr. Nguyen shares his expertise to help you understand these life-changing weight loss surgeries and choose the right path for your individual journey.
What are the key differences between Gastric Sleeve and Gastric Bypass?
  • Both procedures are highly effective, but they work in distinctly different ways, which helps me guide patients toward the best option for their individual situation.

  • Gastric Sleeve involves creating a long, thin stomach by removing about 80% of the original stomach. This procedure focuses purely on restriction—reducing the amount of food you can eat at one time. The major advantage is that we don't alter your small intestine or change how your body absorbs nutrients, which means there's no risk of malabsorption or vitamin deficiency issues. Patients typically achieve about 60% excess weight loss. However, some patients may experience increased reflux or heartburn after this procedure, particularly if they had these issues before surgery.

  • Gastric Bypass creates a small stomach pouch about the size of your thumb and then reroutes a portion of your small intestine to connect directly to this pouch. This procedure works through both restriction and malabsorption—you eat less and absorb fewer calories from what you do eat. Patients generally see about 70% excess weight loss, which is slightly higher than the sleeve. An added benefit is that gastric bypass typically eliminates or significantly reduces reflux and heartburn. However, because we're bypassing part of the intestine, there is some risk of malabsorption, which means patients need to be more diligent about taking vitamins and having regular lab work.

  • The choice between these procedures depends on factors like your current health conditions, weight loss goals, and lifestyle preferences. During your consultation, we'll carefully evaluate and discuss which option might align best with your individual circumstances.

How does Dr. Nguyen decide whether a patient should have Gastric Sleeve or Gastric Bypass surgery?
  • The decision between gastric sleeve and gastric bypass is highly individualized, and I believe in taking a collaborative approach with each patient. Rather than simply telling someone which procedure they should have, I conduct a thorough evaluation and engage in detailed discussions to understand what would work best for their unique situation.

  • During our consultation process, I consider several important factors: your current health conditions, particularly issues like diabetes or severe reflux; your weight loss goals and timeline expectations; your lifestyle and eating habits; any previous abdominal surgeries; and your comfort level with the different aspects of each procedure.

  • I also spend considerable time understanding what the patient hopes to achieve and any concerns they might have. Some patients are drawn to the simplicity of the gastric sleeve and prefer avoiding changes to their intestinal anatomy, while others are motivated by the potentially higher weight loss results of gastric bypass.

  • Ultimately, this is a partnership decision. I provide my medical expertise and recommendations based on what I believe will give you the best outcomes, but I also want to ensure you feel confident and comfortable with the choice we make together. The 'best' procedure is the one that aligns with your health needs, lifestyle, and personal preferences—because when patients feel good about their decision, they tend to have better long-term success.

What are Dr. Nguyen’s tips and insights that can assist with a faster or easier recovery from both procedures?
  • Recovery success after bariatric surgery really comes down to two fundamental principles that I emphasize with every patient. First, strict adherence to the post-operative nutrition program is absolutely critical. This isn't just about eating less—it's about eating the right foods in the right way. Following the structured diet phases we provide, with a strong emphasis on adequate protein intake, helps ensure proper healing while protecting your muscle mass during weight loss.

  • Protein becomes even more important after bariatric surgery because your body needs it to heal incisions, maintain muscle tissue, and support your metabolism as you lose weight. I typically recommend prioritizing protein at every meal and following the specific guidelines we'll provide about portion sizes, eating slowly, and chewing thoroughly.

  • The second key factor is early mobilization—getting up and moving as soon as you're able and as much as you can tolerate. I understand that movement might feel challenging initially, but gentle activity starting with short walks is incredibly beneficial. It helps prevent blood clots, reduces the risk of pneumonia, minimizes uncomfortable gas buildup, and can help accommodate a smoother recovery.

  • The patients who recover most swiftly are those who treat these guidelines as non-negotiable parts of their recovery plan rather than suggestions. Your commitment to proper nutrition and staying active in those crucial first weeks sets the foundation for both your immediate recovery and your long-term success with weight loss.

What factors could complicate or lengthen the recovery process for both Gastric Sleeve and Gastric Bypass?
  • Several factors can influence your recovery timeline after bariatric surgery, and understanding these helps us prepare the most effective recovery plan for your individual situation. Your overall health status is the most significant predictor of recovery speed—patients who are managing multiple medical conditions or have compromised immune systems may need additional time and support during their healing process.

  • The degree of obesity itself can present unique challenges during recovery. Higher BMI patients may experience slower wound healing, have an increased risk of complications, and find early mobility more difficult—yet movement remains crucial for preventing blood clots and other post-operative issues. This is why I work closely with patients to develop realistic activity goals that gradually build their strength and endurance.

  • Respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD deserve special attention in bariatric surgery recovery. These conditions can affect your ability to clear anesthesia from your system and may make the deep breathing exercises we recommend more challenging but vital. Since proper lung function is essential for preventing pneumonia and ensuring adequate oxygen delivery during healing, we often coordinate with pulmonologists to optimize lung function before surgery.

  • The encouraging news is that many of these factors can be addressed proactively. We frequently work with patients before surgery to optimize their health conditions, adjust medications, and create customized recovery protocols. Some patients may benefit from additional respiratory therapy, specialized pain management approaches, or extended monitoring periods. By identifying and planning for these factors ahead of time, we can often minimize their impact and still achieve excellent outcomes—it may just require a more individualized approach to your recovery timeline.

What are Dr. Nguyen’s specific recommendations for the diet plan following surgery?
  • The post-operative diet progression is carefully structured to ensure your new stomach heals properly while helping you adapt to your body's changed needs. This phased approach is generally the same for both gastric sleeve and gastric bypass patients, and following it precisely is crucial for your success and safety.

    • Phase 1: Full Liquid Diet begins immediately after surgery and typically lasts for the first 1-2 weeks. During this phase, you'll consume only clear and full liquids like protein shakes, broths, sugar-free beverages, and thin soups. This allows your stomach to heal without the stress of processing solid foods while ensuring you get essential nutrients, particularly protein.

    • Phase 2: Soft Blended Foods comes next, usually lasting another 1-2 weeks. Here we introduce pureed or very soft foods that require minimal chewing—think yogurt, cottage cheese, soft scrambled eggs, and well-blended soups. Everything should have a smooth, pudding-like consistency. This phase helps bridge the gap between liquids and regular foods while continuing to protect your healing stomach.

    • Phase 3: Regular Foods typically begins around the 4-week mark, though this timing can vary based on individual healing. Even when you progress to regular foods, portion sizes will be much smaller than before surgery, and you'll need to chew thoroughly and eat slowly. We can help provide specific guidelines about which foods to introduce first and how to recognize when you're ready for each advancement.

  • Throughout all phases, protein remains the top priority, and we'll work closely with you to ensure you're meeting your nutritional needs.

What is the expected recovery timeline for Gastric Sleeve and Gastric Bypass?
  • Most of my patients can expect a full recovery within 4 weeks of their gastric sleeve or gastric bypass surgery. This timeline applies to patients who are in relatively good health going into surgery and follow their post-operative instructions carefully.

  • However, recovery is very individualized, and some patients may need 6 to 8 weeks to realistically reach complete recovery. This extended timeline is more common for patients who may be more debilitated before surgery—those managing multiple health conditions, patients with higher BMIs, or individuals with conditions like sleep apnea, diabetes, or mobility limitations that can affect healing.

  • Within the first week or two, most of my patients feel well enough to return to light activities and desk work. By 4 weeks, the majority can resume normal daily activities without restrictions. However, your body continues healing internally, and your new eating patterns are still developing during this time.

  • The 6- to 8-week timeframe ensures that even patients with more complex health situations have adequate time for complete healing before returning to all activities, including heavy lifting or strenuous exercise. During our pre-operative consultation, I'll give you a more personalized estimate based on your individual health status and circumstances.

  • Remember, these timelines represent full recovery—many patients feel significantly better much earlier in the process. The key is being patient with your body and not rushing back to full activity too quickly, as this can sometimes set back your progress.

What should patients expect regarding the cost of Gastric Sleeve and Gastric Bypass procedures?
  • The cost structure for bariatric surgery depends primarily on your insurance coverage and eligibility. Most of my patients have their gastric sleeve or gastric bypass procedure covered through insurance, provided they meet the qualifying criteria. Depending on your specific insurance provider, these criteria typically can include having a BMI over 40 (or over 35 with obesity-related health conditions), documented attempts at non-surgical weight loss, and clearance from various specialists.

  • When insurance covers the procedure, your out-of-pocket responsibility will vary significantly based on your specific insurance plan. Factors like your deductible, co-pay, out-of-pocket maximum, and whether you've met your annual limits all influence your final cost. I strongly recommend contacting your insurance provider before scheduling surgery to understand your expected expenses.

  • For patients who choose self-pay options or don't have qualifying insurance coverage, the cost typically ranges between $15,000 to $18,000. This range can vary based on several factors, including the specific procedure chosen, the complexity of your case, any additional services required, and facility fees.

  • Our office staff works closely with patients to verify insurance benefits and provide cost estimates before proceeding. We believe in complete transparency about healthcare costs, so you'll have a clear understanding of your financial responsibility upfront. 

  • The most important thing is ensuring you receive the care you need to improve your health and quality of life, and we'll work with you to navigate the financial aspects as smoothly as possible.

What are the costs and success rate of Revision Bariatric Surgery?
  • Revision bariatric surgery follows a similar cost structure to primary bariatric procedures. Most revision surgeries are covered through insurance, provided the patient meets the qualifying criteria for revision. Insurance companies typically require documentation showing medical necessity for the revision, such as inadequate weight loss from the original procedure, weight regain, or complications that warrant surgical intervention.

  • When insurance covers revision surgery, your out-of-pocket costs will depend on your specific insurance plan's deductible, co-pay, and whether you've met your annual out-of-pocket maximum. As with primary procedures, I recommend verifying your benefits with your insurance provider before scheduling.

  • For patients pursuing self-pay options, revision bariatric surgery typically ranges between $15,000 to $18,000, similar to primary procedures.

  • Regarding success rates, revision bariatric surgery achieves approximately 70% success at the 5-year mark. However, it's crucial to understand that success is heavily patient-dependent. Factors that significantly influence outcomes include the reason for revision, how well patients adhere to post-operative dietary guidelines, their commitment to lifestyle changes, and their overall health status.

  • Patients who struggled with dietary compliance after their first surgery may face similar challenges with revision surgery. This is why my team and I spend considerable time during the consultation discussing what led to the need for revision and developing strategies to optimize success the second time around. The goal is not just to perform another surgery, but to set you up for long-term success.

What would Dr. Nguyen want patients to know before considering Gastric Sleeve or Gastric Bypass surgery?
  • There are several crucial insights I want every bariatric surgery patient to understand before we proceed. First, experiencing some pain after surgery is completely normal and expected—this is your body's natural response to healing. The encouraging news is that post-operative pain is generally very manageable with the medications we'll prescribe, and most patients find their discomfort decreases significantly within the first few days.

  • Another cornerstone of successful bariatric recovery is maintaining physical activity as soon as you're able. While it may feel challenging to move when you're experiencing discomfort, gentle activity—even just taking short walks throughout the day—plays a vital role in your healing journey. This early activity helps maintain good blood circulation, prevents complications like blood clots, minimizes the gas-related discomfort that many patients experience, and significantly contributes to faster overall recovery.

  • Setting realistic expectations is equally critical for long-term success. Bariatric surgery is a powerful tool, but it's not a magic solution. Your commitment to following post-operative guidelines, attending follow-up appointments, and embracing lifestyle changes will largely determine your outcomes. Some patients lose weight quickly, while others have a more gradual journey—both patterns can lead to excellent results.

  • I also want patients to understand that this surgery addresses the physical aspect of weight management, but the mental and emotional components require ongoing attention too. Many of my most successful patients work with counselors or support groups to develop healthy coping strategies that don't involve food.

  • Finally, remember that choosing bariatric surgery is choosing a lifelong commitment to your health. The patients who thrive are those who view this as the beginning of a new chapter, not a quick fix. Trust the process, be patient with yourself, and don't hesitate to reach out to our team whenever you need support along your journey.

What to Expect When You Choose Us

From your first consultation through your complete recovery, we provide:

  • Thorough evaluation and explanation of your condition

  • Clear discussion of all treatment options, including non-surgical alternatives when appropriate

  • Detailed pre-operative instructions to help you prepare

  • Compassionate care during your hospital stay or outpatient procedure

  • Comprehensive follow-up care and support during recovery

  • Ongoing availability to address questions or concerns

We understand that facing any weight loss surgery can be intimidating, but you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Our team is committed to providing expert care with a personal touch, ensuring you feel supported, informed, and confident every step of the way.

Your health and wellbeing are our highest priorities, and we're honored to be part of your care team.

Why Choose Bariatric Surgery?

All our bariatric procedures are performed by our highly trained surgical team using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques. We're committed to providing you with the most effective, life-changing weight loss options because we believe you deserve:

  • Significant and sustainable weight loss

  • Improvement or resolution of obesity-related health conditions

  • Reduced need for medications for conditions like diabetes and hypertension

  • Enhanced mobility and physical comfort

  • Improved quality of life and self-confidence

  • Lower lifetime healthcare costs and fewer obesity-related medical visits

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About

Dr. Richard Nguyen

Dr. Richard Nguyen is a board-certified General Surgeon with over 20 years of surgical expertise and fellowship training in Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery from Vanderbilt University. Since establishing his practice in San Jose in 2007, he has pioneered innovative surgical techniques, including single-incision laparoscopic procedures and mastery of the da Vinci Robotic Surgical System. Beyond his acclaimed bariatric surgery practice, he has earned national recognition for his specialized expertise in both non-mesh and advanced mesh hernia repairs, while also serving as a critical approach surgeon for anterior spine access procedures. Dr. Nguyen combines technical precision with personalized care across multiple premier facilities throughout the South Bay Area.

We are affiliated with the following Hospitals/Surgical Centers:

Good Samaritan Hospital, San Jose, CA
Los Gatos Community Hospital-El Camino, Los Gatos, CA
Silicon Valley Surgery Center, Los Gatos. CA
Fremont Surgery Center, Fremont, CA
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Real Clients, Real Results

Hear directly from patients whose lives have been transformed through Dr. Nguyen's surgical expertise and compassionate care. Their success stories inspire our work every day.
Crystal S. smiling one year after gastric sleeve surgery
Crystal S.

I would refer Doctor Nguyen to anyone, in fact I have and they have all had the same experience as me. He is truly great. I owe all my success to Doctor Nguyen and I thank him for all the work he has done for me and continues to do so. He is extremely amazing, and I am very grateful to him.

Lisa Q. standing outdoors following 100‑lb weight loss
Lisa Q.

At 50, I now have a life I had only dreamed of a year before. My body tells me if I am done eating. This surgery is a tool that I have used to the fullest. It is not an easy way out. It still took work. But I honestly know that I would not be living this amazing new life if I didn’t step forward to embrace this life-saving surgery.

Rickie W. celebrating diabetes remission post‑bypass
Rickie W.

Dr. Nguyen has changed my life completely. I feel so much better and I also feel like I’ve got control of my life again…I had high blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol. I took at least 5 different medications for the past 30 years. NOW, after surgery I take no medications only vitamins!

Your Next Step

Wondering which surgical procedure might be right for your condition? We're here to help you understand your treatment options and develop a personalized surgical plan. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.

Your path to improved health may be more achievable than you think—with advanced surgical techniques leading to faster recovery, reduced complications, and a significantly enhanced quality of life.

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