Turkey is renowned for its medical tourism, particularly for procedures like gastric sleeve surgery. In this post, we will explore highly-rated hospitals in Turkey known for performing gastric sleeves, discuss the costs associated with the surgery, and consider why non-surgical options such as weight loss injections might be a safer and more practical choice.
We are aware of six British nationals having died in Turkey in 2023 following medical procedures. Some British nationals have also experienced complications and needed further treatment or surgery following their procedure.
– GOV.UK
Hospitals in Turkey for gastric sleeve surgery
This list is not an endorsement and does not reflect the best hospital for gastric sleeves in Turkey. It is based on research as of 14/05/2024. You should always do your own research from various sources before undertaking any kind of medical procedure or surgery.
Memorial Hospitals Group
- Rating: Often rated among the top medical facilities in Turkey, Memorial Hospitals Group is ranked 4.8 stars on Trustpilot with 451 reviews.
- Cost: Their website states gastric sleeves start from €3,000.
İrmet Hospital International
- Rating: Known for high patient satisfaction rates and modern facilities, İrmet Hospital has 4.5 stars on Trustpilot with 95 reviews (note that this is a low number).
- Cost: Their website does not have upfront pricing and requires you to request a quote.
Clinic Antalya
- Rating: Clinic Antalya provides care with a team of specialists in bariatric surgery. It has 4.9 stars on Trustpilot with 150 reviews.
- Cost: Their website does not have upfront pricing and requires you to request a quote.
Gastric sleeve surgery benefits and risks
Gastric sleeve surgery can offer significant weight loss by removing about 80% of the stomach, limiting the amount of food that can be ingested and helping to decrease appetite. However, like all surgeries, it comes with risks:
- Complications such as infections, blockage/obstruction, bleeding, and long-term issues like vitamin deficiencies
- Permanent changes to the digestive system that require lifelong commitments to diet changes and nutritional management
Why gastric sleeves may not be the best solution
While gastric sleeve surgery can be effective, it's not suitable for everyone. It requires a permanent alteration to the digestive system and carries risks that can impact long-term health.
The success of the surgery often depends on the patient's ability to adhere to strict dietary changes and regular physical activity, as well as the competency of the surgeon.
Safer alternatives available in the UK
Weight loss injections
Before considering surgery, it's worth exploring non-surgical options like weight loss injections. These include:
- Saxenda (Liraglutide): It mimics a hormone that regulates appetite, helping users feel fuller sooner. Lose around 10% of body weight.
- Wegovy (Semaglutide): This injection helps reduce appetite and is suitable for long-term weight management. Lose around 15% of body weight.
- Mounjaro (Tirzepatide): This is the newest addition to weight loss treatments, combining methods that aid in blood sugar control and reduced appetite. Lose up to 26% of body weight.
These treatments offer significant weight loss without the risks associated with surgery and can be an effective first step before considering more invasive procedures.
Make sure to use a trusted provider in the UK, such as London Weight Loss Clinic or Medicspot to avoid counterfeit medication and ensure a thorough medical review.
Key takeaways
While Turkey offers some reputable hospitals for gastric sleeve surgery, it's important that you consider all of your options.
Non-surgical treatments like weight loss injections provide a safer and less invasive alternative, allowing you to manage your weight without the risks and long-term commitments of surgery.
It's advisable to discuss all possible weight loss methods with a healthcare provider like Medicspot to choose the best solution tailored to your health needs and lifestyle preferences.
About the author
Dr Adam Abbs is an NHS-trained GP with a keen focus on digital health, AI in healthcare and personalised and lifestyle medicine, including weight loss. Dr Abbs is a leader in the innovation of effective, accessible and safe healthcare delivered via remote care. Dr Abbs is an expert medical writer and authored the RCGP-accredited Handbook of Remote Consultations in 2020. GMC Number 7078829 Irish Medical Council 429282