When you’ve tried every diet, joined every gym, and still find yourself struggling with weight that won’t shift, it’s natural to start thinking about surgery, and just as natural to have questions.
At Blackrock WeightCare, one of the first things people ask us is, “Is gastric sleeve surgery safe?” It’s an honest and important question, and the answer is – yes, it is very safe, especially when done under expert care with the right support before and after.
Let’s walk you through what it really involves, what makes it safe, and what life looks like afterwards.
What Exactly Is a Gastric Sleeve?
A gastric sleeve (also called sleeve gastrectomy) is a weight loss operation that makes the stomach smaller — about the size and shape of a banana. It helps you feel full after smaller meals and also lowers levels of the “hunger hormone” ghrelin, which means your appetite naturally settles.
It’s one of the most common and successful types of weight loss surgery worldwide, helping thousands of people take control of their health, regain energy, and feel like themselves again.
How Safe Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
In the right hands, gastric sleeve surgery is extremely safe. Like any operation, there are some small risks, but serious complications are very rare.
At Blackrock WeightCare, all procedures are performed by Mr William Robb, one of Europe’s most experienced robotic bariatric surgeons. Using advanced robotic technology, every movement is precise, steady, and carefully controlled, making the procedure even safer and recovery much smoother.
Every patient is cared for by a full team – surgeon, dietitian, psychologist, physiotherapist, endocrinologist, and nursing staff – all working together to make sure your experience is safe, supported, and stress-free.
Mr Robb has carried out more than 1,500 robotic procedures, including over 400 this year alone, with excellent safety outcomes and consistently high patient satisfaction.
You can rest assured – you’re in expert hands.
Understanding the Risks (and How We Manage Them)
Every surgery carries some risk, but at Blackrock WeightCare, safety is our top priority. Here’s what to know:
Short-term risks (rare):
- Minor bleeding or infection (less than 1%)
- Leakage from the staple line (extremely uncommon)
- Blood clots (prevented through medication and early movement after surgery)
Long-term considerations:
- Vitamin and mineral deficiencies (prevented through supplements and regular follow-up)
- Occasional reflux or heartburn (easily managed with medication if needed)
Before your surgery, our team will go through all of this with you carefully, so you understand exactly what to expect and how we’ll keep you safe every step of the way.
What Recovery Looks Like
Most people are pleasantly surprised by how well they feel after surgery.
You’ll usually stay in hospital for one or two nights, and many patients are up and walking within hours. Most return to normal daily routines in two to three weeks, depending on their job and comfort level.
In the first few weeks, your diet will start with liquids, then move to soft foods, and eventually to regular meals. Our dietitian will guide you through each stage, helping you adjust to new habits at your own pace.
We’ll also check in regularly – through clinic visits, phone calls, and video sessions – so you’re never left wondering if what you’re feeling is “normal.”
Recovery isn’t rushed here. It’s supported.
What Are the Long-Term Results?
The gastric sleeve doesn’t just change how much you eat – it changes how your body works.
Patients often see incredible improvements in their health, including:
- Better control of Type 2 diabetes
- Lower blood pressure
- Relief from joint pain and sleep apnoea
- More energy and improved mobility
- A renewed sense of confidence and freedom
Most importantly, it gives people back their life – the ability to travel, to move comfortably, to enjoy meals without guilt, and to wake up each morning feeling lighter, healthier, and hopeful again.
Choosing weight loss surgery is a big decision – one that takes courage, reflection, and trust. But when done safely, with the right team and aftercare, it can truly transform your life.
At Blackrock WeightCare, we’re here to make sure you never have to take that step alone. From your first call to long after your surgery, you’ll have the full support of a team that cares deeply about your success and wellbeing.
If you’ve been thinking about weight loss surgery, maybe this is your moment to start the conversation.
A healthier, more confident you might be closer than you think.
Your Health. We Care.
