Gastric Sleeve Surgery Ruined My Life: 12 Common Regrets

“Gastric sleeve surgery ruined my life!” It’s a phrase we hear often. But when you’re researching the best ways to treat obesity, the success stories of patients who achieved dramatic weight loss with gastric sleeve often dominate the conversation. After all, we’re much more likely to share our victories than our struggles!

The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach that works for everyone. Obesity is a disease that requires expert medical intervention for effective treatment. Gastric sleeve, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, can be a powerful tool for weight loss, but it comes with potential risks and drawbacks that should be carefully considered before committing to the surgery.

Before making a decision, it’s important to have the full picture. Below, we’ll explore some of the most common gastric sleeve regrets, plus a non-invasive alternative, so you can have an informed discussion with your doctor about the options available to you.

12 Common Gastric Sleeve Regrets

Weight loss procedures can be life-changing, but it’s important to acknowledge that gastric sleeve is a surgical intervention that involves permanent changes to the anatomy. While many people achieve positive results, it’s essential to consider the potential risks and drawbacks.

Let’s look at 12 common regrets and misconceptions associated with gastric sleeve surgery to help you set realistic expectations.

1. Surgical consequences

Gastric sleeve surgery, just like any major surgery, comes with risks such as scarring, infections, and bleeding. Leaks from the stapled areas are also a concern that may require further medical intervention. 

“So I think this is an individual, I have sensitive super fair skin and I scared badly. I even developed a scar on the location they put my IV in. I got the raised keloid scars,” shared a gastric sleeve patient on Reddit.

Why this happens

• Gastric sleeve is a surgical procedure that requires several small abdominal incisions to access and remove a portion of the stomach.
• Anytime the skin and tissue are cut, the body must heal through scar formation, which can result in visible or raised scars in some individuals.
• Because internal stapling is used, there’s also a small risk of leaks, bleeding, or infection as the body heals.
• The recovery process itself increases the short-term risk of blood clots, particularly if mobility is limited after surgery.

What people do to fix this

• For visible scars or keloids, patients typically visit a dermatologist for treatments such as silicone gels, steroid injections, or laser therapy.
• For infections or bleeding, prompt medical attention is essential; antibiotics or wound drainage may be required.
• Following proper wound care instructions and moving as soon as it’s medically safe helps reduce the risk of complications.
• Regular follow-up visits with the surgeon ensure healing is on track and any issues are caught early.

Recovery time can be significant. It may take as much as 4-6 weeks before patients can return to their normal routine. This can lead to additional stress and financial burdens associated with the procedure.

2. Social isolation

After gastric sleeve surgery, patients must follow strict dietary guidelines, including avoiding certain foods. This can make social situations and dining out challenging, especially in the weeks immediately following the surgery.

Some patients find that they need to bring their food to social gatherings or avoid them altogether, which can lead to feelings of isolation. Friends and family may not fully understand or be aware of dietary restrictions, making social interactions more stressful and less enjoyable.

“I did not want to go to gatherings or family dinners for the first month or 2 after I was sleeved. But, once I was on soft foods, and had meal prepped some soft foods I could take with me, it was a little easier.” — Reddit user

Why this happens

• Because post‑surgery dietary phases (liquid → soft → solids) are tightly controlled, many typical social meals don’t align with allowable foods.
• Gastric sleeve patients often must avoid common party foods (fried, high-fat, high-carb) or modify them, which makes participation more burdensome.
• Others may feel psychological pressure or embarrassment when they can’t eat “normally” in social settings.

What people do to fix this

• Many bring compliant foods or prepped meals to gatherings so they have a safe option.
• They may socialize around non‑food activities (walks, movie nights) to reduce the focus on eating.
• Some start conversations ahead of time (“I have restrictions, so I’ll eat light”) to reduce awkwardness.
• Over time, with adaptation, social dining can become easier as friends and family adjust.

That being said, following your doctor’s advice for integrating solid foods gradually, meal planning, and mindful eating can help make the transition easier. Eating smaller portions at special events will allow you to enjoy social activities without feeling self-conscious.

3. Irreversible changes

Gastric sleeve surgery involves the removal of a portion of the stomach and the use of staples to create a slender, elongated structure that serves as the new stomach. After the surgery, the patient can only eat very small meals, which helps them lose weight.

Why this happens

• Part of the stomach is permanently removed, so natural stomach volume cannot be restored.
• Because the anatomical change is structural (not just behavioral), outcomes depend heavily on how the body adapts post‑op and how well lifestyle changes are maintained.
• If weight loss stalls or complications occur, patients may feel trapped by the decision.

What people do to fix this

• In some cases, a revision surgery is considered (e.g., converting sleeve to bypass or adding adjustments).
• Enhanced behavioral support and diet/fitness modifications are often pursued to maximize what the altered anatomy allows.
• Close monitoring and early intervention for complications or suboptimal weight loss.

The relatively permanent nature of the surgery can lead to regret. If complications arise or the expected results aren’t achieved, patients may wish they had explored other options. That said, the gastric sleeve surgery success rate is promising if you don’t get the expected results, so there is some flexibility.

4. Changes in the relationship with food

Patients must adapt to a new way of eating after gastric sleeve surgery to avoid discomfort and pain. The newly formed, smaller stomach can only handle small amounts of food at a time, and eating too quickly or consuming larger portions can lead to severe pain and discomfort.

Some patients experience sharp, uncomfortable pains if they overfill their stomach, requiring them to eat slowly and mindfully. Some patients may also experience a decreased sense of taste, a general disinterest in food, or digestive issues like gas and constipation.

Why this happens

• Because the stomach volume is drastically reduced, overfilling—even slightly—can stretch the tissue or stress staples, triggering pain or nausea.
• The body must adapt to new patterns of digestion and absorption; sensitivity to food textures, speed of eating, or certain food types is higher.
• Neurological and hormonal changes (gut hormones, neural feedback) can alter appetite, taste perception, and satiety thresholds.
• Digestive changes after surgery (slower transit, altered microbiome) can manifest as gas, bloating, or constipation, influencing how food is experienced.

What people do to fix this

• Eat very slowly and chew thoroughly to reduce discomfort.
• Use small, frequent meals with careful portion control.
• Stay on a protein-priority diet, minimizing more difficult foods until tolerance improves.
• Work with a bariatric dietitian to gradually reintroduce foods, monitor digestion, and address intolerances.
• Use supplements or probiotics (as clinically advised) to support gut health and relieve digestive symptoms (gas, constipation).
• Keep a food journal to note which foods cause pain or negative reactions and avoid or adjust them over time.

“I no longer think of foods being good or bad. Food is just food without moral value. I never restrict the type of food I eat, but I do limit the quantity.” — Reddit user in r/gastricsleeve, in discussion on relationship with food

5. Cost

The financial burden associated with gastric sleeve surgery can be substantial. The average upfront cost can vary greatly, depending on the location, the surgeon, the specific medical facility, and the length of your hospital stay.

Beyond the initial costs, it’s also important to be aware of expenses associated with follow-up care, potential complications, and nutritional supplements. These costs can be significant and add up quickly, especially if they aren’t fully covered by insurance.

“Out of pocket I probably paid 5 k … includes the ancillary payments to surgeon, anesthesiologist, etc.” — Reddit user on r/gastricsleeve, “I regret it so much” thread

Why this happens

• Surgical procedures involve many line‑items (surgeon fees, facility fees, anesthesia, hospital stay) which can multiply depending on region and facility quality.
• Postoperative care—nutritional counseling, lab work, supplements, management of complications—often aren’t fully covered or anticipated.
• Unexpected complications (e.g. leaks, strictures, infections) may necessitate additional procedures or hospital readmissions, increasing costs further.
• Many insurance plans have complex coverage rules for bariatric surgery, leaving patients responsible for co‑pays, deductibles, or uncovered services.

What people do to fix this

• Some patients negotiate payment plans or financing options with their provider.
• Others shop around, compare surgical centers and their all‑in pricing (including follow panels).
• Many use accelerated or bundled pricing packages that include post‑operative care.
• People also try to reserve an emergency fund for unexpected complications or supplemental costs (nutritional, lab, medications).

6. Lifestyle changes

It’s important for patients to have realistic expectations. Gastric sleeve surgery is not a quick fix or a magical solution for treating obesity. While it can help jump‑start significant weight loss, like any other method, maintaining long‑term results requires an ongoing commitment to healthy diet and lifestyle changes.

The need for permanent dietary and lifestyle changes can be challenging to maintain, affecting social interactions and daily routines. This can impact social relationships as patients may feel the need to decline certain events centered around eating.

“So yeah, there it is. I regret doing my sleeve when I did and I wish I’d known more about basically everything prior to getting it done.” — Reddit user, in r/gastricsleeve “2 Years Post‑Op Gastric Sleeve: I Regret It” thread

Why this happens

• Because the stomach is smaller, patients must adapt to new eating schedules, smaller meals, and stricter food choices permanently.
• Old habits (snacking, large meals, processed foods) are ingrained, so changing them long term is difficult.
• Social norms and environments (celebrations, family meals, dining out) frequently revolve around foods that don’t align with post‑sleeve diets, creating friction.
• Without ongoing behavioral counseling or support, it’s easy to slip into less optimal patterns, which erode results and lead to regret.

What people do to fix this

• Many enroll in long‑term support groups, therapy, or bariatric coaching to maintain behavioral accountability.
• Use meal planning, prepping, and structured routines so diet changes feel less ad hoc and burdensome.
• Gradually expand permitted foods (under guidance) to add variety without derailing progress.
• Engage family/friends in education so that social situations become more accommodating.
• Track progress (journaling, apps) and revisit diet/exercise plans when adherence weakens.

Additionally, daily routines must be adjusted to prioritize physical activity and nutritious meals. This ongoing effort is required for sustained weight loss, no matter which method you choose, and it can be challenging to maintain without adequate support.

7. Loose skin

Excess skin is a common consequence of significant weight loss, including that achieved through gastric sleeve surgery. As the body rapidly sheds pounds, the skin often fails to shrink proportionately, leaving behind a large amount of excess skin.

“Now I’m stuck with this body, and I can’t get my stomach back to how it was. It’s been messing with my mental health lately … God I wish I can reverse time and just not do it.” — Reddit user in bariatric forum discussing loose skin regret

Excess skin after significant weight loss can sometimes be managed through a well-balanced diet, hydration, and regular exercise. Over time, the skin may become firmer and toned, so patience is key.

Skin removal surgery, or body contouring, may also be considered to improve physical appearance and self-esteem, but it may not be covered by insurance. Patients need to weigh the potential costs and discuss options with their care provider before deciding to have surgery.

Why this happens

• When skin has been stretched over a long period (especially with obesity), it loses elasticity, collagen, and the capacity to contract fully once weight is lost.
• The speed of weight loss often outpaces the skin’s ability to adapt and retract.
• Factors such as age, genetics, sun damage, smoking, and how long the skin was stretched can worsen loose skin tendencies.
• Because gastric sleeve leads to relatively rapid and large weight loss compared to slower dieting, the risk of loose skin is higher.

What people do to fix this

• Strength training and resistance exercises can help build muscle underneath, which can improve the appearance of sagging skin.
• Topical treatments or creams (e.g. retinoids, firming lotions) are sometimes used, though outcomes are modest.
• Maintaining hydration, good nutrition (especially protein, vitamins, minerals), and skin care support skin health.
• When skin laxity is severe and negatively affecting quality of life, many patients consult a plastic surgeon for body contouring (e.g. panniculectomy, abdominoplasty).
• Some save and plan for staged skin removal or lift procedures only after weight has stabilized for 1–2 years.

8. Dumping syndrome

Dumping syndrome occurs in 20 to 50% of people who have gastric surgery. It’s caused by rapid gastric emptying, where food moves too quickly from the stomach into the small intestine without being digested.

“I get dumping syndrome from anything sweet, even fruit sometimes. It’s awful — nausea, sweating, and lightheadedness within 10 minutes. I have to read every label now.” — Reddit user, r/gastricsleeve

Rapid gastric emptying can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and diarrhea, particularly after consuming high amounts of sugar or carbohydrates. Patients who struggle with dumping syndrome must carefully monitor their food intake to avoid triggering symptoms.

Why this happens

• Gastric sleeve surgery removes much of the stomach’s reservoir capacity, meaning food passes into the small intestine more rapidly than before.
• The smaller stomach produces less digestive enzyme activity and less pyloric regulation (the valve that normally slows gastric emptying).
• When undigested or high-sugar food hits the small intestine quickly, it draws in fluid, causing bloating, cramps, and diarrhea.
• This sudden shift can also trigger insulin and hormone spikes, leading to dizziness or fatigue after eating.

What people do to fix this

• Avoid foods that trigger symptoms—especially simple sugars, refined carbs, and very fatty foods.
• Eat smaller, slower, and more frequent meals to keep digestion steady.
• Combine carbohydrates with protein or fat to slow absorption.
• Avoid drinking fluids during meals (wait at least 30 minutes before and after).
• Work with a registered dietitian to develop a meal plan that minimizes triggers while maintaining nutrition.

9. Psychological challenges

Patients who face ongoing mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and body image issues sometimes find that these concerns intensify after the surgery.

Weight loss often leads to boosts in self-esteem, but in some patients, rapid changes can spark a loss of self-identity. While relationships with family and friends may improve, shifts in roles, perceptions, or jealousy can strain or even sever relationships.

It’s essential for patients to enter surgery with realistic expectations, a robust support system, and access to mental health resources. Proactively addressing these psychological challenges can help navigate the emotional complexities of surgery and dramatic weight loss.

Why this happens

• Because surgery alters not just physical shape but also daily routines, social dynamics, and self-perception, patients may struggle to reconcile who they were before with who they are becoming.
• Many people use food as emotional coping; when that coping mechanism is disrupted by surgery, there may be a void (emotional eating tendencies shift).
• Unrealistic preoperative expectations (believing the surgery will “fix everything”) can backfire, causing disappointment if life challenges remain or new ones emerge.
• Nutritional changes, micronutrient deficiencies (e.g. B12, vitamin D), and hormonal shifts can influence mood and mental health.
• Stress from complications, extended recovery, and the pressure to maintain weight loss adds to emotional strain.

What people do to fix this

• Many patients pursue psychological or psychiatric support (therapy, counseling) before and after surgery to build coping skills.
• Some engage in support groups (in-person or online) to share experiences and normalize challenges.
• Practicing mindfulness, journaling, or cognitive-behavioral techniques to promote awareness of emotional patterns.
• Regular mental health check-ins (screening for depression, anxiety) and early intervention if symptoms worsen.
• Nutritional monitoring and supplementation to correct deficiencies that may affect mood.
• Encourage open communication in relationships (partners, family) to realign expectations and navigate role changes together.

10. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Increased incidence of acid reflux and heartburn post-surgery are common. This condition occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing.

“I have never had heartburn/acid reflux in my life, and only developed it after I was sleeved. It is so uncomfortable… I’ve been on twice-daily Protonix and it just takes the edge off.” — BariatricPal user.

The reduced stomach size and altered positioning of the digestive tract associated with gastric sleeve surgery may affect the normal function of the lower esophageal sphincter. This can lead to acid reflux and other symptoms of GERD.

Managing GERD requires dietary changes, such as avoiding spicy or acidic foods and eating smaller meals. It may also help to avoid lying down immediately after meals. Medications can also be helpful to control the symptoms.

Why this happens

• Gastric sleeve surgery reduces the stomach’s volume and changes its shape, which can increase pressure against the lower esophageal sphincter (LES).
• The removal of the stomach’s fundus—where acid typically pools—reduces gastric compliance, meaning acid and gas are more likely to push upward.
• In some patients, the LES may weaken after surgery, leading to persistent reflux symptoms.
• Rapid weight loss and inflammation during healing can temporarily worsen reflux before stabilization occurs.
  (*Sources: National Library of Medicine; Cleveland Clinic)

What people do to fix this

• Avoid trigger foods (spicy, acidic, fried, or caffeinated).
• Eat smaller, slower meals and avoid eating within three hours of bedtime.
• Elevate the head of the bed to reduce nighttime reflux.
• Use prescribed proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers under medical supervision.
• If symptoms persist, a gastroenterologist may evaluate for complications like esophagitis or discuss surgical revisions such as conversion to gastric bypass.

11. Nutritional Deficiencies

Gastric sleeve surgery permanently alters the digestive system, which can lead to nutritional deficiencies over time. The reduced stomach size leads to decreased nutrient absorption, making it challenging for the body to obtain adequate levels of certain nutrients from food alone.

“I take my vitamins daily and get labs done every six months. My B12 still dropped, so my doctor added monthly injections. It’s just part of the routine now, and I feel a lot better.” — user response in BariatricPal Nutrient Deficiency thread

Deficiencies in vitamins and minerals like B12, iron, calcium, and vitamin D can have severe consequences if left untreated, such as anemia, bone disorders, and neurological complications.

Regular blood tests may be necessary to monitor and adjust supplementation to maintain long-term health.

Why this happens

• Because part of the stomach is removed and its surface area reduced, less gastric acid and intrinsic factor are available for proper digestion and absorption of nutrients (especially B12).
• Food moves through the digestive tract more quickly and in smaller amounts, so there is less time and surface area for absorption of minerals and vitamins.
• Some vitamins (e.g. B12, iron) require an acidic environment and binding proteins to absorb properly; the altered anatomy disrupts that process.
• Even with supplements, adherence, formulation, and individual metabolism can lead to suboptimal levels over time.
• Studies show that micronutrient deficiencies persist even years after surgery if follow-up care and supplementation are inconsistent.

What people do to fix this

• Take lifelong, specialized multivitamin and mineral supplements formulated for bariatric patients.
• Monitor nutrient levels regularly (e.g. annually or more frequently) via blood tests.
• Add specific supplementation (e.g. B12 injections, iron, calcium + vitamin D) when lab levels fall.
• Work with a bariatric dietitian to design a diet that maximizes nutrient density from permitted foods.
• Adjust supplement timing or form (chewable, liquid, slow-release) to improve absorption.
• Be vigilant and proactive — deficits tend to develop slowly, so early detection matters.

12. Weight Regain

Despite initial success, some patients experience weight regain over time due to stretching of the stomach or returning to poor eating habits. The body’s metabolism can also adapt over time, leading to a potential slowdown or pause in weight loss.

“I regained about 25 lbs after 2 years. Went back to basics—protein first, no drinking with meals, tracking again—and it’s coming off slowly. It’s definitely a lifelong process.” — Bariatric Pal user on Weight Regain After Sleeve thread

Managing weight regain after bariatric surgery can be managed with a multifaceted approach, including lifestyle adjustments, gastric sleeve revision, weight loss medication, and ongoing support from healthcare providers.

Why this happens

• Over time, the stomach pouch can expand slightly, allowing larger food volumes.
• Some patients gradually revert to pre-surgery eating patterns such as grazing or high-calorie snacking.
• The body’s metabolism adapts to sustained calorie restriction by lowering energy expenditure.
• Hormonal shifts (e.g., ghrelin and leptin changes) can gradually re-increase appetite and hunger cues.
• Lack of long-term follow-up or accountability may make it harder to maintain early results.
  (Source: ASMBS)

What people do to fix this

• Revisit their bariatric care team to identify behavioral, hormonal, or mechanical causes of regain.
• Work with a dietitian to re-establish portion control and balanced macronutrient intake.
• Engage in structured support programs or online accountability groups.
• Incorporate regular strength training to boost metabolism and maintain lean muscle.
• Consider non-surgical revision procedures such as Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) or TORe for pouch tightening.
• In some cases, add GLP-1 medications under medical supervision to assist appetite control and metabolic balance.

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG): A Non-Surgical Alternative to Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty, or ESG Stomach Tightening, is a non-surgical alternative to gastric sleeve that offers several advantages without the surgical risks. While ESG typically results in 3-5% less weight loss compared to gastric sleeve, it has the significant benefit of being a non-surgical procedure. This minimally invasive procedure is performed endoscopically, which means no scarring, no incision, and a dramatically shorter recovery time.

How ESG works

ESG Stomach Tightening involves using an endoscopic suturing device to create a sleeve-like shape within the stomach. It reduces the stomach’s capacity by narrowing its opening and restricting the volume of food it can hold, mimicking the effects of surgical gastric sleeve. ESG helps patients feel fuller sooner and consume fewer calories, promoting weight loss over time.

How ESG Stomach Tightening outperforms gastric sleeve surgery

Minimally invasive approach

Unlike traditional gastric sleeve surgery, ESG requires no incisions and no removal of stomach tissue. The procedure is performed entirely through the mouth using a flexible endoscope, avoiding external wounds, scars, or stitches. With fewer surgical steps involved, ESG carries a significantly lower risk of complications such as infection, bleeding, or leaks—common concerns with traditional gastric sleeve surgery.

Faster recovery and less downtime

ESG is an outpatient, non-surgical procedure—most patients return home the same day and resume normal activities within 2–3 days. In contrast, gastric sleeve surgery typically requires hospitalization and several weeks of recovery. For busy professionals or parents, this shorter downtime is a major advantage.

Durable, effective weight loss

Both ESG and gastric sleeve reshape the stomach to limit food intake and promote long-term weight loss. ESG produces an average 18–20% total body weight loss, only 3–5% lower than the results typically seen with surgical sleeve procedures. For many patients, that small difference isn’t worth the added surgical risks, pain, and recovery time. ESG has also shown similar improvements in metabolic health markers like diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea.

No permanent alteration to the body

Gastric sleeve surgery involves irreversible removal of part of the stomach, whereas ESG simply uses internal sutures to reshape it. The natural anatomy remains intact, meaning there’s no permanent alteration or scarring. In some cases, the sutures can be revised or removed if needed, offering greater flexibility for future treatment options. This makes ESG particularly appealing to patients who prefer a reversible, less invasive solution.

Things to consider

Success with ESG requires a commitment to sustainable lifestyle changes, including maintaining a calorie deficit, eating mindfully, and staying active. Bariendo’s registered dietitians and nurse practitioners provide ongoing support to help patients adapt and maintain results long-term. 

ESG is approved for individuals with a BMI over 30 and may also be suitable for those with a slightly lower BMI who have obesity-related conditions such as diabetes, sleep apnea, or high blood pressure. In comparison, gastric sleeve surgery typically requires a BMI of 40 or 35 with a related condition, making ESG accessible to a broader range of patients seeking a safe, proven, non-surgical weight loss solution.

Who developed the ESG procedure?

ESG Stomach Tightening was invented by Dr. Christopher C. Thompson, co-founder of Bariendo and Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Thompson is widely considered the father of bariatric endoscopy. He developed and patented non-surgical endoscopic suturing techniques for obesity treatment while a fellow at Harvard.

In 2012, Dr. Thompson performed the first ESG procedures using the current technology. Today, he leads in clinical research, device innovation, and training in endoscopic weight loss, having performed over 6,000 such procedures with international referrals.

A patient success story

Helen lost 63 pounds, about 26% of her body weight, in just six months after undergoing ESG with Bariendo. Before the procedure, traditional methods like dieting, willpower, and exercise hadn’t given her lasting results. 

Helen only missed three days of work for recovery and credits Bariendo’s team for guiding her every step of the way. With ongoing support and encouragement, she continues to lose weight, gain confidence, and enjoy a healthier, more active life.

“The ESG procedure has changed my whole lifestyle; you can do it too!” Helen says.

Avoid the Regrets of Gastric Sleeve Surgery

If you’re exploring weight loss options but hesitant about surgery, ESG Stomach Tightening offers a proven, minimally invasive alternative that helps you achieve your goals without scars, hospitalization, or irreversible changes.

With its shorter recovery time, strong long-term results, and lower complication risk, ESG allows patients to avoid the most common gastric sleeve regrets while still achieving transformative results.

As the pioneers of ESG Stomach Tightening, Bariendo’s physicians are world leaders in endoscopic weight loss. Schedule a consultation today, explore flexible financing options, and take the first step toward safe, sustainable weight loss, supported by a dedicated care team every step of the way.