Gastric band surgery involves placing a band around the upper part of your stomach to create a small pouch that holds food. This surgery limits how much you can eat and helps you feel full sooner. The band's tightness can be adjusted by adding or removing saline solution through a port placed under the skin.
The procedure is minimally invasive, which means it typically offers quicker recovery times than more invasive surgeries. It is also reversible and adjustable, providing flexibility in terms of weight loss management. Patients can achieve up to 26% weight loss, as well as experience improvements in weight-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes.
Turkey has become a popular destination for UK residents seeking gastric band surgery due to its combination of affordable healthcare and the opportunity for recuperation. However, you may want to consider non-surgical interventions like weight loss injections, which carry lower risk and fewer lifestyle disruptions, before committing to a gastric band in Turkey.
Why consider Turkey for gastric band surgery?
Quality of care in Turkish medical facilities
Many hospitals in Turkey are accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI), ensuring they adhere to rigorous healthcare quality and safety norms. These hospitals often employ experienced surgeons who specialise in bariatric procedures. Many UK patients have reported positive experiences, highlighting the professionalism and excellent care they received.
Cost-effectiveness of gastric band surgery in Turkey
The cost advantage is one of the most compelling reasons people choose Turkey for gastric band surgery. The cost of a gastric band in Turkey ranges from £3,000 to £5,000, lower than the average UK cost of £5,000 to £8,000. These costs often include all associated fees such as the surgery itself, hospital stay, and aftercare. However, additional expenses such as travel, accommodation, and medication may not be covered and should be considered.
If you are committed to a gastric band in Turkey, it’s important to focus less on benefits like an all-inclusive package or flights included, and more on the quality and reputation of the healthcare provider and surgeon responsible for your gastric band surgery.
The gastric band procedure in Turkey
Pre-surgery requirements
Before undergoing gastric band surgery, patients typically undergo a comprehensive assessment that includes blood tests, a physical examination, and consultations to discuss the surgical risks and lifestyle changes needed post-surgery. Dietary adjustments, such as reducing calorie intake and practising portion control, are essential to facilitate a smoother transition post-surgery.
The surgery experience
Gastric band surgery in Turkey is performed under general anaesthetic and usually takes one to two hours. The procedure is carried out laparoscopically, involving small incisions, which helps reduce recovery time and scarring. Most patients stay in the hospital for one to two days to ensure they are recovering well without any immediate complications.
Recovery and aftercare
Post-surgery care in Turkey
After the surgery, patients are provided with detailed dietary guidelines and support from nutritionists for the first few weeks to adjust to their new stomach capacity. Turkish medical facilities can offer great post-operative care with follow-up appointments arranged to monitor the patient's progress and adjust the band as necessary.
Long-term care and follow-up
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.
Risks and considerations
Risks of gastric band surgery in Turkey
While gastric band surgery is considered safe, it does carry risks such as infection, surgical complications, band slippage, and problems with eating and vomiting. Long-term risks include band erosion and nutrient deficiencies if dietary guidelines are not properly followed.
Surgical complications can include perforations or obstructions in the stomach or bowel, blood clots, leaks into the bowel, infections, sepsis, and bleeding. Some patients may struggle with adjusting to smaller portions post-surgery.
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 band 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.
Choosing the right clinic and surgeon in Turkey
It's crucial to select a clinic and surgeon with a strong track record in bariatric surgery. Look for JCI-accredited hospitals with experienced surgeons, and always check patient reviews and testimonials.
Alternatives to gastric band
Non-surgical weight loss options
If you are wary of surgical interventions, non-surgical treatments such as dietary modifications, physical activity, and weight loss medications like Mounjaro and Wegovy are available. These medications work by regulating appetite to help reduce body weight:
- Wegovy can help you lose around 15% of your body weight
- Mounjaro can help you lose up to 26% of your body weight
These weight loss injections can be effective alternatives for managing weight and improving your health without the risks associated with surgery. London Weight Loss Clinic and Medicspot are both trusted providers in the UK if you want to explore these options further.
Key takeaways
While gastric band surgery in Turkey offers a cost-efficient solution for weight loss, it's important to thoroughly evaluate all of your options. If you're considering this procedure, consult with a healthcare provider in the UK to make sure you are making an informed decision that aligns with your health needs and lifestyle preferences. If you have not yet tried weight loss injections, you may want to consider trusted UK providers like Medicspot.
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