Transform Your Life with Dr. El Djouzi | Bariatric Surgery

Which weight loss surgery is right for you?

The gastric sleeve or the gastric bypass?

Get expert guidance on choosing between the gastric bypass and gastric sleeve with Dr. El Djouzi's advanced personalized assessment tool.

*This assessment reflects current standards in bariatric surgery in the USA, but is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.*

Why Take This Assessment?

Every patient is unique. This tool helps identify the best surgical option for your specific needs.

Personalized Match

Get a recommendation tailored to your health profile, lifestyle and goals.

Compare Options

Understand the key differences between the gastric sleeve and bypass.

Expert Guidance

Based on 15+ years of experience and 2,400+ successful surgeries.

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Our commitment to excellence has earned us the trust of thousands of patients who have transformed their lives through bariatric surgery.

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Dr. Sofiane El Djouzi in his bariatric office

Meet Dr. Sofiane El Djouzi

Dr. Sofiane El Djouzi is a leading bariatric surgeon dedicated to helping patients reclaim their health through personalized, evidence-based care. He holds a Doctor of Medicine, a Master of Science in Advanced Surgical Endoscopy and an MBA. He is board-certified by the American Board of Surgery, a Diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine, and a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of England, the American College of Surgeons and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery.

  • Dual board-certified in General Surgery and Obesity Medicine
  • Fellowship-trained in advanced GI, minimally invasive, bariatric and endoscopic surgery
  • Former Assistant Professor of Surgery at Loyola University's Stritch School of Medicine
  • Former proctor and instructor in robotic surgery
  • 15+ years of bariatric experience with over 2,400 successful procedures
  • Recognized among the top 1% of bariatric surgeons nationwide

Dr. El Djouzi combines advanced laparoscopic, robotic and endoscopic techniques with holistic, long-term support — addressing nutrition, emotional well-being and lifestyle — for safer procedures, quicker recovery and lasting success.

★★★★★ 4.9 / 5 – Over 400 verified Google reviews

Gastric Sleeve vs. Gastric Bypass

Compare the two most popular bariatric procedures side by side.

Gastric Sleeve

  • Removes 80% of the stomach
  • No rerouting of intestines
  • 60–70% excess weight loss within 1–2 years
  • Lower risk of nutritional deficiencies
  • Cannot be reversed once performed
  • Ideal for patients with moderate weight loss goals

Gastric Bypass

  • Creates a small stomach pouch
  • Reroutes part of the small intestine
  • Over 75% excess weight loss within 1–2 years
  • Most effective for diabetes remission
  • Can be reversed, but extremely rare
  • Best for patients with significant weight loss needs

Sleeve vs. Bypass FAQs

Surgery Types & General Information

The gastric sleeve removes about 80% of your stomach, creating a smaller, tube-shaped stomach. The gastric bypass creates a small stomach pouch and reroutes part of your intestines. The bypass typically results in more weight loss and is more effective for diabetes, while the sleeve is simpler with fewer long-term complications.
The best surgery depends on your health conditions, weight loss goals and lifestyle. Our assessment tool considers factors like your BMI, medical conditions (especially diabetes), eating habits and personal preferences. Generally, bypass is recommended for higher BMIs or severe diabetes, while sleeve works well for moderate weight loss needs.
The gastric sleeve cannot be reversed because part of the stomach is permanently removed. The gastric bypass can technically be reversed, but this is extremely rare and only done in exceptional circumstances due to the complexity and risks involved. Both surgeries should be considered permanent lifestyle changes.

Weight Loss & Results

With gastric sleeve, patients typically lose 60–70% of their excess weight within 1–2 years. Gastric bypass patients usually lose 75% or more of their excess weight in the same timeframe. Individual results vary based on adherence to dietary guidelines, exercise and starting weight.
Gastric bypass has the highest diabetes remission rates, with up to 90% of patients experiencing significant improvement or complete resolution. The sleeve also helps with diabetes (about 60–70% remission rate) but is generally less effective than bypass due to the hormonal changes from intestinal rerouting.
Weight loss begins immediately after surgery. Most patients lose 20–30 pounds in the first month, with the most rapid loss occurring in the first 6 months. Weight loss typically plateaus around 12–18 months. Bypass patients often lose weight slightly faster initially due to the malabsorptive component.

Risks & Recovery

Both surgeries are very safe when performed by experienced surgeons. Sleeve risks include acid reflux and potential leaks. Bypass risks include dumping syndrome, nutritional deficiencies and internal hernias. Overall complication rates are low (1–3%), and Dr. El Djouzi's complication rates are well below the national average.
Most patients stay 1–2 nights in the hospital for either surgery. Return to work is typically 2–3 weeks for desk jobs, 4–6 weeks for physical jobs. The sleeve generally has a slightly easier recovery since it's less complex. Full recovery and adaptation to new eating habits takes about 3–6 months for both procedures.
About 20–30% of bariatric patients choose to have body contouring procedures after reaching their goal weight. This depends on factors like age, skin elasticity and amount of weight lost. These procedures are typically done 12–18 months after bariatric surgery when weight has stabilized.

Life After Surgery

Both surgeries require similar dietary progressions: liquids for 2 weeks, purees for 2 weeks, then soft foods before regular textures. Long-term, you'll eat smaller portions (4–6 oz) of protein-rich foods. Bypass patients must avoid sugar and high-fat foods to prevent dumping syndrome. Sleeve patients may need to limit spicy or acidic foods if reflux develops.
Yes, lifelong vitamin supplementation is required for both surgeries. Bypass patients need more extensive supplementation including B12 injections, iron, calcium and vitamin D due to malabsorption. Sleeve patients typically need a daily multivitamin, B12 and possibly iron. Regular blood work monitors for deficiencies.
Yes! Many women find fertility improves after weight loss. We recommend waiting 12–18 months after surgery before becoming pregnant to ensure weight stabilization and proper nutrition. Pregnancy after bariatric surgery requires close monitoring but is generally very safe with proper vitamin supplementation and prenatal care.

Cost & Insurance

Most insurance plans cover bariatric surgery when medical criteria are met (typically BMI over 40, or over 35 with obesity-related conditions). Coverage requirements vary, but often include documented weight loss attempts and psychological evaluation. Our insurance team helps navigate the approval process and can verify your benefits.
Gastric bypass is typically slightly more expensive due to its complexity and longer operating time. However, when covered by insurance, patient costs are usually similar. For self-pay patients, the sleeve is often \$2,000–3,000 less expensive. We offer financing options and transparent pricing for all procedures.
Revision rates are low (5–10%) but can occur if weight regain happens or complications develop. Sleeve patients can be converted to bypass if needed. Bypass revisions are more complex but possible. Dr. El Djouzi specializes in revision surgeries and can discuss options if previous surgery hasn't met your goals.

Your Surgery Assessment

Let's find the best option for you

Step 1 of 13

Let's get to know you

Your information helps us personalize your recommendation

Step 2 of 13

Your current measurements

This helps us calculate your BMI and surgical eligibility

Step 3 of 13

Have you been diagnosed with Barrett's esophagus?

This is a condition where the esophagus lining changes

Step 4 of 13

Do you experience heartburn or acid reflux?

This is important for choosing the right procedure

Step 5 of 13

Do you have a hiatal hernia?

A condition where part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm

Step 6 of 13

Have you been diagnosed with diabetes?

Both surgeries can improve diabetes, but one may be more effective

Step 7 of 13

Do you have any of these conditions?

Select all that apply

Step 8 of 13

Do you currently smoke or use tobacco?

Smoking increases surgical risks and must be addressed

Step 9 of 13

How would you describe your eating habits?

Be honest — this helps us find the best fit

Step 10 of 13

How often do you take pain relievers?

Like ibuprofen, aspirin or Aleve

Step 11 of 13

Have you had abdominal surgery before?

This can affect surgical approach

Step 12 of 13

What matters most to you?

Your preference helps guide our recommendation

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