Does Bariatric Sleeve Surgery Take Away Cravings?

Gastric sleeve surgery is a life-changing weight loss procedure that removes about 80% of the stomach. One of its biggest benefits is reducing hunger and cravings, especially for unhealthy foods. But does it eliminate them completely? Here’s what you need to know.

Quick Facts:

Procedure: Laparoscopic, reduces stomach size.
Effect on Cravings: Greatly reduces, especially in the first 1–2 years.
Mechanism: Lowers the hunger hormone ghrelin.
Pain Level: Managed with medication.
Recovery: 2–4 weeks.
Long-Term Success: Requires healthy habits and follow-up.

What is Bariatric Sleeve Surgery?

Also known as gastric sleeve surgery, this procedure removes a large portion of the stomach, leaving a tube-shaped “sleeve.” This reduces how much you can eat and changes your hunger hormones.

How It Affects Cravings:

The surgery removes the part of the stomach that produces ghrelin, the “hunger hormone.” With less ghrelin, most patients feel significantly less hungry and have fewer cravings, especially for sugary and fatty foods.

Ideal candidate for bariatric surgery:

You can be an ideal candidate if:

You have a BMI of 35 or higher.
If you have obesity related complications.
If you have cardiovascular disorders.
If all other weight loss methods have not worked.

Common Changes After Surgery:

Reduced appetite and fewer hunger pangs.
Less desire for sweets, junk food, and carbs.
Possible food aversions (to meat, fried foods, etc.).
Feeling full quickly.
Improved control over emotional eating.

The Process of Surgery

Step 1: Consultation

We evaluate your health, weight loss goals, and eating habits.
We explain how the surgery affects cravings and appetite.

Step 2: Surgery

Performed laparoscopically under general anesthesia.
Stomach is reduced by about 80%.

Step 3: Recovery & Diet Phases

Weeks 1–2: Liquid diet, very low hunger
Weeks 3–4: Pureed foods, cravings remain low
Months 1–6: Soft then solid foods, appetite control is easier
6–12 months: “Honeymoon phase”, strongest craving reduction

Step 4: Long-Term Management

Follow-up visits with your bariatric team.
Nutritional and psychological support to maintain results.

Benefits of Sleeve Surgery for Cravings:

Reduces ghrelin, the hunger hormone.
Smaller stomach limits overeating.
You feel full faster and longer.
Helps break unhealthy eating cycles.
Makes mindful eating easier.
Can reduce diabetes, blood pressure, and more.
Supports sustained weight loss.

How to Maintain Reduced Cravings After Surgery:

DO:

Eat protein with every meal.
Drink plenty of water.
Follow your dietitian’s plan.
Exercise regularly.
Attend support groups.
Practice mindful eating.

DON’T:

Skip meals or protein.
Drink sugary beverages.
Graze throughout the day.
Ignore emotional eating triggers.
Isolate yourself from support.

Sleeve Surgery vs. Other Bariatric Procedures:

Effect on Cravings: Sleeve greatly reduces cravings; gastric bypass also reduces cravings; gastric band has minimal effect.
Ghrelin Reduction: Sleeve significantly lowers it; bypass moderately lowers it; band does not affect it much.
Dumping Syndrome: Possible with sleeve; more common with bypass; rare with band.
Best For: Sleeve is best for patients with strong hunger signals; bypass is good for those with diabetes; band is adjustable and reversible.

How Long Do the Craving Reductions Last?

Most patients experience strong craving reduction for 1–2 years after surgery, the “honeymoon phase.” Over time, some cravings may return, especially if healthy habits aren’t maintained. The surgery gives you a powerful tool, but long-term success depends on your lifestyle.