A gastric balloon is a less invasive alternative to traditional weight loss surgeries in Turkey. It involves the placement of a filled balloon into the stomach to help fill the stomach, so that you want to eat less, and therefore consume fewer calories. Turkey is known for its medical tourism and offers this procedure with cost savings compared to private surgery in the UK.
This procedure may be suitable for patients who are looking for a reversible and less invasive option compared to surgical alternatives. Benefits include weight loss of around 10% within six months (the period the balloon typically stays in), improvement in obesity-related health conditions, and a lower risk of surgical complications.
You may want to consider weight loss injections given that they can achieve similar or better weight loss outcomes without the need to travel to Turkey and without the risks of surgery. If this is of interest to you, trusted providers in the UK like London Weight Loss Clinic offer programmes that include Mounjaro (up to 26% weight loss) and Wegovy (around 15% weight loss).
Why consider Turkey for gastric balloon surgery?
Excellence in medical standards
Some of Turkey's medical facilities boast international accreditations from organisations like the Joint Commission International (JCI). These facilities are staffed by experienced medical professionals who provide comprehensive care and bariatric surgery, and most speak excellent English.
Cost benefits for UK patients
The cost of a gastric balloon in Turkey is often lower than in the UK. Typically, the price ranges from £1,500 to £3,000 in Turkey, compared to upwards of £2,000 to £5,000 in the UK.
These prices often include all related medical fees, such as the procedure itself, medical consultations, and aftercare, providing cost savings without compromising on the quality of care.
When choosing a gastric balloon in Turkey, prioritize the healthcare provider's quality and reputation over all-inclusive package deals.
The gastric balloon procedure in Turkey
Pre-surgery considerations
Patients are required to undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation to make sure they are suitable candidates for the gastric balloon in Turkey. This includes assessments of their physical health, nutritional habits, and psychological readiness for undergoing a weight management procedure.
Experience during the procedure
The gastric balloon procedure is quick, usually taking about 20-30 minutes, and is performed on an outpatient basis. The patient can return to normal activities within a few days.
Aftercare and recovery
Immediate post-procedure care in Turkey
After the procedure, patients might experience nausea or discomfort, which typically subsides, after days or weeks, depending on the surgery and the individual. Turkish clinics often offer support during this period, including ensuring hydration and providing close monitoring to ensure a comfortable recovery.
Long-term success and dietary guidance
Once back in the UK, follow-up care includes regular check-ups, depending on your care agreement. Note that your NHS GP is not responsible for the follow up care for private surgery. Check your care agreement to ensure that you have follow-up with a private specialist to monitor your health, nutritional intake, and weight loss progress. It is important you adhere to dietary guidelines in order to maintain weight loss whilst still getting the nutrients needed to stay healthy.
Turkish clinics should provide detailed long term dietary advice and lifestyle counselling to help patients make the most of their gastric balloon and sustain weight loss after its removal.
Risks and considerations
Understanding the risks
The gastric balloon is generally safe but can include risks such as possible discomfort, gastric irritation, problems with eating and vomiting, and in rare cases, balloon deflation or obstruction. Choosing a reputable clinic in Turkey is crucial for minimising these risks and ensuring access to prompt medical care if complications arise. Even the most professional surgeries result in complications; so it is important to know that one in 500 bariatric surgeries in Turkey result in death.
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
As a doctor, I urge you to research thoroughly before considering gastric balloon surgery in Turkey. I strongly advise exploring other weight loss treatments from trusted UK providers first. Your health is paramount, and it's crucial to make an informed decision.
Suitability for gastric balloon
This procedure is best suited for patients with a BMI of 30-40 who haven't had success with diet and exercise alone but may not qualify for, or want, more invasive types of surgery.
Alternatives to a gastric balloon in Turkey
Other weight loss options
Alternatives to a gastric balloon include more permanent surgical options like gastric sleeve or gastric bypass, as well as non-surgical treatments such as diet, physical exercise, and weight loss medications like Mounjaro or Wegovy. Make sure you use a trusted provider like London Weight Loss Clinic or Medicspot if you are considering weight loss injections in the UK.
Key takeaways
Opting for a gastric balloon in Turkey offers UK residents a cost-effective, less invasive alternative to other weight loss surgeries. However, it's essential to carefully evaluate this option through extensive online research of various sources, and consult with healthcare professionals to determine the best approach based on your individual health needs and weight loss goals.
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