In-depth look at procedures.
Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy)
The gastric sleeve is the most popular weight loss surgery in Turkey. It involves removing about 80% of the stomach, reducing its size and shaping it into a sleeve-like structure. This limits food intake and decreases hunger-inducing hormones like ghrelin. Patients can expect to lose 60-70% of excess weight within 1-2 years. The surgery is minimally invasive, typically performed laparoscopically, with a short recovery time of 1-2 weeks. Turkey is renowned for its competitive prices and highly skilled bariatric surgeons, making it an attractive destination for international patients seeking effective and safe weight loss solutions.
Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y)
Gastric bypass is a more complex procedure that combines restriction and malabsorption to achieve weight loss. The surgeon creates a small pouch from the stomach and directly connects it to the small intestine, bypassing a portion of the digestive system. This not only limits food intake but also reduces calorie absorption. Patients can lose up to 70% of their excess weight within 18 months post-surgery. Due to its complexity, it requires a longer recovery period but is highly effective in resolving obesity-related health issues like diabetes and hypertension. Turkish clinics offer affordable, world-class care with state-of-the-art facilities.
Adjustable Gastric Banding (Lap-Band)
This procedure involves placing an adjustable silicone band around the upper part of the stomach to create a smaller stomach pouch. The band is adjustable via a saline-filled port, allowing for controlled restriction of food intake. Weight loss with a gastric band is slower compared to other surgeries, typically about 40-50% of excess weight over two years. It’s a reversible procedure and less invasive than other options, but it requires frequent adjustments and a strong commitment to dietary changes. Many clinics in Turkey specialize in this procedure, offering expertise in band adjustments and post-surgery care.
Mini Gastric Bypass
A less invasive version of the traditional gastric bypass, the mini gastric bypass also reduces stomach size and reroutes the intestines. This procedure is simpler and shorter, with similar weight loss outcomes. Patients can lose up to 70% of excess body weight in a year. It’s especially effective in treating metabolic conditions such as type 2 diabetes and hypertension. Recovery is relatively quick, and the risk of complications is lower. Turkey has become a popular destination for mini gastric bypass due to its high success rates and affordable treatment packages.
Intragastric Balloon
The intragastric balloon is a non-surgical, temporary option for weight loss. A soft silicone balloon is inserted into the stomach via endoscopy and filled with saline to reduce the stomach's capacity. This promotes a feeling of fullness with less food intake. The balloon remains in place for six months to a year, during which patients can lose 20-30% of their excess weight. The procedure is ideal for those seeking less invasive options or who are not candidates for surgery. Turkey’s expertise in this technique, combined with its affordability, attracts numerous international patients annually.
Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS)
One of the most complex weight loss surgeries, BPD/DS involves a combination of sleeve gastrectomy and intestinal bypass. It reduces stomach size and reroutes a large portion of the intestines to limit calorie absorption. Patients can expect to lose up to 80% of their excess weight, making it one of the most effective procedures for severe obesity. It’s especially beneficial for those with metabolic disorders like diabetes. However, it has a higher risk of nutritional deficiencies and requires lifelong supplements. Turkey’s highly skilled surgeons and advanced technology make it a leading destination for this procedure.
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG)
This non-surgical procedure uses an endoscope to place sutures in the stomach, reducing its size without any incisions. ESG is ideal for patients who want a less invasive option but are not suitable candidates for more traditional surgeries. Patients can expect to lose around 20-25% of their total body weight within a year. Recovery is quicker compared to surgical options, with minimal downtime. ESG is gaining popularity in Turkey due to its affordability and the country's reputation for advanced endoscopic techniques.
Revisional Bariatric Surgery
Patients who have previously undergone weight loss surgery but experienced complications or insufficient weight loss can opt for revisional bariatric surgery. This may involve converting a gastric band to a sleeve or a sleeve to a bypass. Turkey offers highly experienced surgeons capable of managing complex revisional procedures. It is ideal for patients seeking to correct or enhance the effects of their initial surgery.