Quick answer: A gastric sleeve is a permanent keyhole operation that makes your stomach much smaller, which reduces how much you can eat and changes hunger hormones. Weight loss injections are prescription medicines that reduce appetite while you keep taking them. Surgery is a bigger, irreversible step that is generally aimed at people with a higher BMI. Injections avoid surgery, but weight often returns after stopping them.
How a gastric sleeve works
During a sleeve gastrectomy, a large part of the stomach is removed, leaving a narrow tube or “sleeve”. You feel full after much smaller meals, and appetite usually drops. At Look Younger Clinic, the surgery is laparoscopic (keyhole), takes about 45 to 60 minutes, and patients usually stay in hospital for two nights.
How weight loss injections work
Weight loss injections are prescription medicines, usually injected under the skin, that act on appetite and fullness signals. They are used alongside changes to diet and activity. Because they only work while you are taking them, many people regain weight after stopping.
Comparison
| Gastric sleeve | Weight loss injections | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | One-off operation | Ongoing medication |
| Reversible? | No | Yes, you can stop |
| Typical candidate | Higher BMI, other methods tried | Depends on prescriber’s assessment |
| Hospital stay | Usually 2 nights | None |
| Long-term commitment | Lifelong diet changes and supplements | Continued treatment to maintain results |
Who may be suitable for a gastric sleeve?
At our clinic you may be eligible if your BMI is 35 or over and other weight loss methods have not worked. Before surgery you will follow a low-calorie diet for between five days and six weeks, depending on your BMI. If you suffer from reflux, a sleeve is generally not recommended, and a gastric bypass is usually considered instead.
Who may prefer injections?
- People who do not meet the criteria for surgery.
- People who want to avoid an operation.
- People who accept that treatment may need to continue long term.
Injections must be prescribed by a qualified clinician after a medical assessment.
Cost at Look Younger Clinic
At the time of writing, our UK gastric sleeve is listed at £2,700 and gastric bypass at £3,300. Blood tests are included to check your nutrition. See gastric sleeve cost.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use injections before or after a gastric sleeve?
Some patients do, under medical supervision. Discuss your options with your surgeon or prescriber.
Will I need vitamins after a gastric sleeve?
Yes. Most people need lifelong vitamin and mineral supplements and regular blood tests.
Is a gastric sleeve safe?
Like any operation it carries risks, which your surgeon will explain in detail at consultation.
