Gastric sleeve surgery, known medically as sleeve gastrectomy, is becoming an increasingly popular choice for people with obesity.
The surgery involves removing a portion of the stomach to reduce its size, transforming it into a narrow tube or ‘sleeve’ that can hold less food. This significant reduction in stomach volume helps patients reduce their food intake and feel full much quicker.
Gastrectomy is highly effective for long-term weight loss and can significantly improve weight-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes. Patients can lose around 25-30% of body weight, which can lead to a marked improvement in quality of life.
Turkey has emerged as a leading destination for people seeking gastric sleeve surgery. The combination of affordable treatment options, high-standard medical facilities, and the allure of recovering in a scenic location has made Turkey an attractive option.
This guide explores the benefits, costs, and process of undergoing gastric sleeve surgery in Turkey, as well as how this compares to weight loss injections in the UK.
Why consider Turkey for gastric sleeve surgery?
Expertise and accreditation of turkish medical facilities
Turkey's healthcare system has undergone extensive improvements, making it a hub for medical tourism. Many Turkish hospitals are accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI), ensuring they meet international healthcare quality standards. These facilities are often staffed by experienced surgeons who specialise in bariatric surgery, offering high levels of care at a fraction of the cost found in the UK.
Gastric sleeve cost in Turkey compared to the uk
The cost of gastric sleeve surgery in Turkey is significantly lower than in the UK. On average, a gastric sleeve in Turkey can cost between £3,000 and £5,000, whereas in the UK prices range from £7,000 to £11,000.
Gastric sleeve prices in Turkey often include all aspects of the procedure, including aftercare and hospital stays. However, the quality of service and level of care you receive can vary by provider.
If you are committed to a gastric sleeve 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 operation, as well as the aftercare that they provide.
What is gastric sleeve surgery?
Gastric sleeve surgery is a permanent, irreversible procedure that reduces the size of your stomach. It is performed under general anaesthesia, using a laparoscopic method that makes several small incisions in your abdomen. This method minimises recovery time and reduces scarring and the risks of complications.
Pre-surgery requirements
Before undergoing surgery, patients must undergo comprehensive medical exams which may include blood tests, cardiovascular examinations, and nutritional assessments. Dietary and lifestyle adjustments are also necessary to prepare your body for surgery and post-surgery lifestyle changes.
The surgery experience
The procedure itself lasts one to two hours, with patients usually required to stay in the hospital for a few days for monitoring. The recovery process involves a gradual transition from liquid to solid foods over several weeks, with close monitoring for nutritional deficiencies.
Recovery and aftercare in Turkey
Post-surgery care in Turkey
Recovery in Turkey offers the benefit of recuperating in comfortable facilities tailored to the needs of medical tourists. The typical stay in Turkey after surgery is about one to two weeks, during which the patient receives post-operative care including pain management, dietary guidance, and wound care.
It is important to consider the level of care available if you develop serious complications during this period. Some facilities only offer very basic care; which would mean that you would need an emergency transfer to another facility if you become seriously unwell. What cover is provided by your care agreement should this happen?
Long-term and follow-up care
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.
Risks and considerations
Potential risks of gastric sleeve surgery
While gastric sleeve surgery is generally safe, it does carry significant risks. These can include complications such as infections, bleeding, long-term issues like vitamin deficiencies and acid reflux, a potential for leaks, and problems with eating and vomiting. If you’re considering gastric sleeve surgery in Turkey, it’s essential that you choose a trusted provider in order to minimise these risks. But 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.
Surgical complications can include perforations or obstructions in the stomach or bowel, blood clots, leaks into the bowel, infections, sepsis, and bleeding. Post-surgery, some patients find it difficult to eat what is typically regarded as a normal amount of food.
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 sleeve 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.
Is gastric sleeve right for you?
Candidates for gastric sleeve surgery typically have a BMI over 40, or over 35 with serious weight-related health issues. You must be ready both psychologically and physically, and will need to undergo a thorough medical and psychological evaluation to determine your suitability.
Alternatives to gastric sleeve in Turkey
Weight loss injections
If you’re hesitant about surgical interventions or have concerns about your safety with gastric sleeve surgery in Turkey, or in the UK, you may want to consider alternative treatments closer to home. Weight loss injections are non-surgical treatments that can help you lose significant 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 are available through trusted healthcare providers in the UK, such as Medicspot and London Weight Loss Clinic, and can help you significantly reduce your body weight without the risks associated with surgery.
Key takeaways
While gastric sleeve surgery in Turkey appears to be a cost-effective solution with potentially high standards of care, it's important to thoroughly consider all of your options. Weight loss injections available in the UK provide a non-invasive alternative that should be considered before opting for surgery. Healthcare providers like Medicspot can offer personalised assessments and help you make the best decision for your weight loss needs.
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