Gastric Sleeve Turkey

What does a gastric sleeve do?

Gastric sleeve surgery significantly reduces the size of your stomach, turning it into a narrow, tube-like structure. This limits how much food you can eat at once, helping you feel full with smaller portions. But beyond restricting volume, the procedure also lowers the production of hunger-related hormones like ghrelin. As a result, you may experience fewer cravings and a more manageable appetite—two important factors for long-term weight loss success.

How common is gastric sleeve surgery?

Gastric sleeve surgery is currently the most widely performed bariatric procedure worldwide. In the United States alone, it accounts for over half of all weight loss surgeries, with approximately 150,000 procedures carried out annually. Globally, the number exceeds 380,000 per year. In Turkey—particularly in medical tourism hubs like Istanbul—the popularity of gastric sleeve surgery has grown significantly due to high-quality care, experienced surgeons, and affordable prices. Still, despite its benefits, only a small percentage of eligible individuals pursue the procedure.

Why Gastric Sleeve Surgery Is So Popular in Turkey

In recent years, Turkey—particularly Istanbul—has become one of the most sought-after destinations for gastric sleeve surgery. This rise in popularity is due to a combination of high medical standards, internationally experienced bariatric surgeons, and cost-effective all-inclusive packages. Patients from countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, and Gulf nations often choose Turkey for its excellent outcomes and shorter waiting times. Istanbul, in particular, offers world-class healthcare with modern hospitals, making it a hub for medical tourism in bariatric surgery.

Is the gastric sleeve safe?

Yes, gastric sleeve surgery is considered a safe and effective weight loss procedure especially when compared to the long-term health risks associated with obesity, such as diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. Studies have shown that the complication rate for gastric sleeve is even lower than that of some common surgeries like gallbladder removal or hip replacement.

In Turkey, where thousands of successful gastric sleeve operations are performed each year, the procedure is typically carried out using minimally invasive (laparoscopic or robotic) techniques. This leads to smaller incisions, less post-operative pain, and a quicker recovery time one of the reasons why many international patients choose Istanbul for their bariatric treatment.

Procedure Details

Who is a candidate for gastric sleeve surgery?

To be eligible for gastric sleeve surgery, patients typically must meet the following criteria:

• You are classified as having class III obesity, with a BMI of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or more with obesity-related conditions like type 2 diabetes or sleep apnea.

• You have made previous efforts to lose weight through diet, exercise, or supervised medical programs, but these have not resulted in sustained weight loss.

• You are physically and mentally ready for surgery and the lifestyle changes that follow. In most cases, patients will undergo evaluations with a team of healthcare professionals, including dietitians and psychologists, before proceeding.

What should you do before gastric sleeve surgery?

If you’re approved for surgery, your preparation begins about two weeks in advance with a low-calorie liquid diet. This diet helps reduce fat around the liver and abdominal area, lowering the risk of complications.

Your surgeon will also ask you to fast for at least 12 hours before the operation. This ensures an empty stomach during the procedure, which is critical for your safety.

How is gastric sleeve surgery done?

In most cases, gastric sleeve surgery is performed using laparoscopic or robotic techniques. These minimally invasive methods involve small incisions rather than one large cut, which reduces pain, speeds up healing, and minimizes scarring.

However, depending on individual anatomy or surgical history, some patients may require open surgery.

What happens during the operation?

1. You’ll be placed under general anesthesia.

2. A small incision is made in your abdomen, through which a port is inserted.

3. Carbon dioxide gas is used to expand the abdomen for better visibility.

4. A laparoscope (a small camera) and surgical tools are inserted through additional ports.

5. The surgeon measures and cuts the stomach, removing about 75–80% of it.

6. The remaining stomach is stapled and shaped into a narrow tube.

7. All instruments are removed, and the small incisions are closed.

How long does the surgery take?

Gastric sleeve surgery typically takes 60 to 90 minutes. While the procedure itself is relatively quick, most patients stay in the hospital for 1 or 2 days, especially in top clinics in Istanbul, where aftercare is closely monitored to ensure a safe recovery.

What happens right after surgery?

You’ll have regular follow-ups with your surgeon or bariatric team to track your progress. They’ll check your weight loss, evaluate your nutrition, and make sure you’re adjusting well to the new lifestyle. You’ll also begin taking vitamin supplements and learn how to gradually transition from liquids to solid foods.

Do I need to follow a strict diet after surgery?

Yes. Initially, you’ll follow a structured diet plan starting with liquids, then progressing to pureed foods and eventually small portions of solid foods. Since your stomach can hold less food, every bite must be nutritionally valuable. Long-term success depends on following a balanced, protein-rich diet and continuing vitamin supplementation for life.