Expert interview with Prof. Dr. med. Karl Miller

Permanently smaller – without surgery

Many people have tried countless diets without the success they hoped for. Alongside the gastric balloon, which reduces the stomach for 4, 6 or 12 months, the Weight Doctors® offer the Weight Doctors SLEEVE®, a permanent stomach reduction that does not require a surgical operation.

Prof. Dr. med. Karl Miller, specialist in general and visceral surgery and Global Medical Director of the Weight Doctors®, was one of the initiators of the Weight Doctors SLEEVE®. In this conversation he explains how the procedure works and what patients can expect.

How does the Weight Doctors SLEEVE® work?

The procedure reduces the stomach permanently without the need for an operation. The endoscopic stomach reduction is achieved with carefully placed anchors with special threads. Depending on size, starting weight and stomach volume, the doctor places around 6 to 8 anchors. They are used to create folds in the stomach wall, which reduce its volume.

Who may be suitable for treatment?

The Weight Doctors SLEEVE® is suitable for people with marked overweight or obesity. Today, the recommended BMI is 27–40 for the endo sleeve and 35–49 for the Extended Sleeve and Extended Sleeve+. Just as important as BMI are willingness and motivation to change something.

Are there medical reasons against it?

Yes. In individual cases, the specialists at the Weight Doctors® decline to treat a patient if there are serious pre-existing conditions. In that case, the risks – in particular those of the necessary anaesthesia – have to be discussed individually. That is why a personal consultation before any treatment is essential.

How much weight can you lose?

That depends above all on how willing you are to change your eating and exercise habits. In Prof. Miller’s experience, the greatest weight loss takes place in the first 2 years. Because the stomach stays permanently smaller, you have considerably longer to change your habits than, for example, with a gastric balloon. Results vary from person to person.

How long do treatment and recovery take?

The procedure takes 30–60 minutes and is usually carried out as an outpatient: you stay at the clinic for around 4–5 hours. Most people are presentable again in public after 3–4 days.

What happens after the treatment?

After the procedure there are 2 fixed follow-up appointments. The Weight Doctors® team accompanies you for a year and stays in touch with you to document your progress and support you with nutrition and exercise.

The initial consultation is available in person at all Weight Doctors® locations, and also by telephone or video.