Gastric sleeve: Can you gain weight again after this operation?
Are you worried about knowing if You can gain weight again after the gastric sleeve operation?
Are you considering having yourself performed a gastric sleeve or some other bariatric surgery, But you're afraid that the rebound effect will cause you to regain all the weight you've lost?
It's a very common concern, after all, if you're going to have a gastric sleeve, one of your priorities should be that it gives you results.
That is why in this post we will discuss whether it is possible to gain weight after a gastric sleeve operation, the reasons why it happens, and what you should do to prevent a rebound effect.
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Can you gain weight again after a gastric sleeve?
Yes, it is possible to gain weight after a gastric sleeve operation. In fact, about 50% of patients regain some of the weight they lost between 12 and 18 months after having a gastric sleeve procedure, according to the Atlantic Medical Group. However, It is only a recovery of 5% of the excess weight. This is not so worrying, because the gastric sleeve helps lose between 60 and 70% of the excess weight.
What causes the rebound effect?
There are many reasons why you can put on weight again after a gastric sleeve operation; these are the main causes:
1. Bad eating habits
Poor eating habits are the main reason why a patient regains some of the weight they lost after a gastric sleeve operation, as pointed out by the Cleveland Clinic.
Many patients believe that the gastric sleeve can produce all the weight loss they are looking for without any extra effort.
However, the truth is that this weight-loss surgery must be accompanied by a total change in lifestyle, starting with diet, otherwise the gastric sleeve may not be sufficient to achieve effective weight loss.
Among those that could be considered bad eating habits are some, such as:
- Getting loaded with food
- Eating too much and at any time
- Serving too large portions
- Eating a lot of junk food
- Eating a lot of processed food
2. Water retention
Fluid retention is another common reason why a gastric sleeve patient regains some of the weight they lost. This can be caused by inflammation and other problems associated with the surgical procedure that involves the gastric sleeve.
According to Healthline, A portal specialized in medicine, such as , is a problem that usually resolves on its own. However, in some cases, it may require specific treatments to be resolved.
3. Excessive consumption of alcohol
Alcohol itself is a drink with a high sugar content, which already represents a problem when you are following a diet and need to control everything you consume.
But it also presents other problems; after a gastric sleeve operation, your body will be more susceptible to alcohol, and its consumption will increase the risk of you losing control of your diet and eating much more than you should.
Therefore, it is best to avoid drinking alcohol if you want to ensure that your gastric sleeve procedure will be successful., as suggested by the experts of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.
4. Low physical activity
Lack of physical activity is another important reason why a patient with a gastric sleeve could regain some of their weight. After all, physical activity helps reduce excess fat and calories, which greatly contributes to weight loss.
If a patient does not exercise frequently or has a more or less active lifestyle, they are much more prone to weight gain because they are not doing anything to deal with the excess calories, fat, and sugars they consume daily.
How to avoid the rebound effect and not gain weight again after a gastric sleeve?
The best way to avoid the feared rebound effect and not put on weight again after having a gastric sleeve is to watch your diet, get enough physical activity, and follow your bariatric surgeon’s instructions.
Remember that gastric sleeve surgery is not a magic solution; it requires a change in your lifestyle not only to achieve results but to ensure that these results are sustained over time.
Have you been thinking about having this bariatric surgery, but you are worried about the gastric sleeve price, Its effectiveness or possible complications? Schedule an appointment Free consultation and we clear up all your doubts.

Dr. Cristobal Garza
I am a bariatric surgeon certified by the Mexican College of Obesity Surgery. Over the last 10 years, I have helped more than 3,500 patients overcome their obesity and live a happier, healthier life.

I had a gastric sleeve operation 7 years ago and I have gained 15 kg back; can it be adjusted? Thank you.
Hello, Tania.
If you are interested in more information about any of our procedures or about bariatric surgery, you can send us a WhatsApp message at +52 878 115 7532 and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
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