Gastric sleeve surgery in Singapore delivers reliable weight loss for eligible patients and well-structured care afterward. This article explains how the procedure works, typical before-and-after outcomes, recovery, costs including Medisave, and how ESG compares as a less invasive alternative.
TL;DR / Key Takeaways
- Gastric sleeve surgery Singapore reduces stomach size to produce sustained weight loss.
- Typical weight loss is substantial in the first 12–18 months, with clinical teams supporting long-term maintenance.
- Costs vary widely: subsidised public cases start in the low thousands, private packages can reach mid five figures.
- Some cases may be eligible for Medisave or insurer support; check MOH and hospital finance teams.
- ESG (endoscopic sleeve gastroscopy) offers a less invasive option with faster recovery but lower average weight loss.
What is gastric sleeve surgery and how does it work in Singapore?
Gastric sleeve surgery is a surgical reduction of stomach volume that limits food intake and reduces hunger. The operation removes about two-thirds of the stomach and shapes the remainder into a narrow tube or sleeve. This procedure changes gut hormones, which helps lower appetite and improves metabolic markers. It is usually done laparoscopically under general anaesthesia.
Typical before-and-after results in Singapore
Patients commonly lose most of their excess weight within 12–18 months after surgery. Clinical reports and centre data show average excess weight loss between 50% and 70% in the first year. Examples include progression from BMI >40 to the high 20s or low 30s for many patients. *Multidisciplinary follow-up with dietitians and psychologists improves long-term success.*
Recovery timeline after gastric sleeve surgery
Recovery starts with a short hospital stay and staged diet progression over weeks. Most patients stay 1–3 days in hospital, begin liquids for 1–2 weeks, then progress to pureed and soft foods over 4–8 weeks. Return to light work often occurs in 1–2 weeks, and full physical activity resumes by 6–8 weeks. Pain is usually manageable with standard medications.
Cost & Medisave coverage in Singapore
Costs vary by hospital, ward class, and surgeon; expect a broad range in 2025. Public, subsidised bills can start around SGD 4,000 to SGD 9,000 depending on ward and subsidy eligibility. Private packages at tertiary hospitals typically range higher, often between SGD 10,000 and SGD 25,000 for full packages. The Ministry of Health publishes procedure cost guides and subsidy details on its site: MOH Singapore. Some patients qualify for Medisave withdrawals and private insurance claims, but approval depends on clinical criteria and pre-authorisation by the hospital and MOH.
Providers and where to get gastric sleeve surgery in Singapore
Major public hospitals and private centres perform sleeve gastrectomy in Singapore. Typical providers include Singapore General Hospital, National University Hospital, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, and leading private hospitals such as Mount Elizabeth and Raffles. For obesity centre care details see SGH: SGH Obesity Centre. Private specialist clinics also offer ESG and surgical pathways; for an ESG overview view this provider page: panasiasurg.com ESG.
ESG vs gastric sleeve: how they compare
ESG is a non-surgical endoscopic procedure that reduces stomach volume by stitches rather than resection. ESG usually yields 15–25% total body weight loss over 12–24 months and has quicker recovery and lower immediate risk. Gastric sleeve tends to produce larger weight loss, roughly 50% excess weight loss in the first year for many patients, but it is a permanent surgical change. *Choose ESG if you want shorter recovery and lower procedural risk; choose sleeve for greater long-term weight loss when eligible.*
Summary:
Gastric sleeve surgery Singapore offers a proven route to major weight loss when paired with structured follow-up and lifestyle change. Costs and coverage vary, so confirm pricing and Medisave eligibility with your chosen hospital. For less invasive options, explore ESG with a qualified provider and review long-term goals before deciding.
FAQs
What are realistic weight loss expectations after gastric sleeve?
Most patients lose 40–70% of excess weight within 12–18 months, with continued gradual loss after that.
How long is hospital stay and downtime?
Typical hospital stay is 1–3 days and most people return to light activity in 1–2 weeks.
Does Medisave cover gastric sleeve surgery?
Medisave coverage is possible but requires clinical approval and depends on MOH rules and hospital pre-authorisation.
How do I choose between ESG and gastric sleeve?
Choose ESG for lower immediate risk and faster recovery; choose surgical sleeve for larger expected weight loss.
Who are the top bariatric surgeons in Singapore?
Public and private hospitals list accredited bariatric surgeons; consult hospital profiles and multidisciplinary obesity centres to compare credentials.
What follow-up care is required after surgery?
Follow-up includes dietitian visits, nutritional monitoring, and regular clinical reviews for at least 12–24 months.
