When we first started researching gastric sleeve surgery, this was the question we kept coming back to: is this really right for us? It’s a big, life-changing decision — not just a quick fix. So if you’re asking yourself the same thing, you’re already on the right track by taking it seriously.
Below, we’ll share what helped us decide, what to think about, and what life is actually like afterwards.
Understanding What the Gastric Sleeve Is
A gastric sleeve (or sleeve gastrectomy) is a form of bariatric surgery where around 80–85% of your stomach is removed. What’s left is a smaller, banana-shaped stomach that holds about 200ml. This means you can eat much less and feel full sooner.
It’s important to understand that the surgery isn’t magic — it’s a tool that makes weight loss possible, not automatic. You’ll still need to change your lifestyle and habits for long-term success.
Why We Considered Surgery
For us, it wasn’t about vanity or wanting a “quick fix.” It was about health, energy, and the ability to live freely again. Years of yo-yo dieting had left us exhausted and frustrated. We’d lose weight, gain it back, and start the cycle all over again.
When we began looking into the gastric sleeve, we were both at a point where nothing else was working long-term. We wanted something that would help us regain control of our health — but we also wanted to make sure we were ready mentally and emotionally.
Questions to Ask Yourself First
Before we committed, we spent months researching and asking questions. Here are a few that helped us decide if the gastric sleeve was right for us:
- Have you tried other weight loss methods, like diet and exercise, without lasting success?
- Are you prepared to completely change how you eat — smaller portions, slower eating, protein first?
- Can you commit to lifelong vitamin supplements and regular check-ups?
- Are you doing this for you and not because of pressure from others?
- Are you ready for the emotional side — including food grief and body image changes?
If you answered yes to most of these, you might be in the right mindset to explore the sleeve further.
The Mental and Physical Preparation
Before surgery, we had to complete a liver-reduction diet, which was challenging but vital. It shrinks your liver to make surgery safer. The real preparation, though, was mental.
We spent time learning about what life after surgery really looks like — from limited portions and no fizzy drinks to learning new eating habits entirely. We also talked openly about why we were doing this, and what our goals were. That mindset was key to our success later on.
The First Few Months: The Reality Check
The first few weeks after surgery are tough. You move from liquids to purées, then to soft foods, and eventually small portions of solids. It’s a strange adjustment — not just physically, but emotionally.
We both experienced what we call “food grief” — missing the comfort of food and struggling to watch others eat things we couldn’t. But as time went on, those feelings faded, replaced by pride, energy, and control we hadn’t felt in years.
Who It Might Not Be Right For
This surgery might not be right for you if:
- You’re looking for a quick fix or temporary results
- You struggle to follow medical instructions or dietary plans
- You’re not ready to address emotional eating patterns
- You’re unwilling to take lifelong vitamins and supplements
That doesn’t mean you’re not ready ever — just that it might be worth taking more time to build the right mindset first.
Our Results So Far
Now, 18 months after surgery, we’ve both hit our target weights. James has lost over 5 stone and Kirsten over 4 stone. More importantly, we feel healthier, more confident, and more in control of our lives.
But we’ve also seen people who had surgery around the same time lose only 20–30 lbs because they struggled to change their habits. That’s why preparation, mindset, and commitment are everything.Final Thoughts
Only you can decide if the gastric sleeve is right for you — but if you’re ready to make lifelong changes, it can truly transform your health and happiness.
Take your time to research, talk to your surgeon, and ask questions. Read experiences from others (like ours) and make sure your choice is informed, realistic, and yours alone.
If you do go ahead, remember: it’s not the end of your weight loss journey — it’s the start of a new, healthier chapter.
Disclaimer:
This post is based on our personal experience with gastric sleeve surgery. It should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your surgeon or healthcare provider before making any medical decisions.