Obesity is considered one of the most significant health problems of the modern era, affecting millions of people worldwide. This increasing prevalence has brought with it a demand for effective and permanent treatment methods. At this point, Turkey has become a prominent center for obesity surgery, thanks to its medical expertise and attractive prices. This guide will provide a detailed look at obesity treatment centers in Turkey, surgical and non-surgical options, treatment processes, and Cure Holiday as a professional partner that can guide you on this journey.
What is Obesity? Definition and Understanding
Obesity is a chronic disease caused by the excessive accumulation of fat in the body, which negatively affects health. It is diagnosed using a calculation method called Body Mass Index (BMI). Individuals with a BMI of over 30 are classified as obese, while those with a BMI of over 40 are considered morbidly obese. This is not just a cosmetic concern but also a serious medical condition that requires professional intervention.
Obesity as a Global Problem
In the last 40 years, the prevalence of obesity has nearly tripled worldwide. Like in Western countries, it has become an increasing problem in Turkey as well. The main reasons for this increase include poor eating habits, a sedentary lifestyle, genetic predisposition, and stress factors brought by modern life. Obesity threatens both individual health and public health systems.
Causes of Obesity: Genetic and Environmental Factors
There is no single cause of obesity; it usually results from a complex interaction of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Genetic predisposition may make an individual more prone to gaining weight, while environmental factors such as fast-food consumption, sugary drinks, and a sedentary lifestyle also play a critical role in the development of obesity. The combination of these factors makes the fight against obesity challenging.
Health Problems Caused by Obesity
Obesity paves the way for many serious health problems such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, stroke, sleep apnea, and some types of cancer. It also leads to physical discomforts that reduce the quality of life, such as joint pain and restricted movement. Untreated obesity can shorten life expectancy and endanger an individual’s overall health.
Alternatives in Obesity Treatment
The first step in obesity treatment is usually diet and exercise programs. However, when these methods fail or when the patient’s BMI is very high, surgical intervention becomes an option. Non-surgical options also include methods such as a gastric balloon and gastric botox. In this guide, we will comprehensively address both surgical and non-surgical treatments.
Obesity Treatment in Turkey: Why is it a Popular Destination?
Turkey has become a globally preferred destination for obesity treatment due to its high-quality healthcare services, experienced surgeons, modern hospitals, and competitive prices. It is possible to receive the same or better quality of service at a much more affordable cost compared to Western countries. Furthermore, Turkey’s geographical location and rich cultural heritage offer the opportunity to turn the treatment process into a holiday experience.
The Rise of Health Tourism in Turkey
Turkey is a rising star in health tourism, especially in fields like hair transplantation, aesthetic surgery, and obesity surgery. Government support for health tourism, the construction of modern hospitals, and the widespread adoption of international accreditations (such as JCI) have accelerated this rise. Patients who come to Turkey for treatment feel safe and comfortable.
Who is the Right Candidate for Obesity Surgery?
Obesity surgery is not a suitable option for everyone. It is generally recommended for individuals with a BMI of 40 or higher, or those with a BMI between 35 and 39.9 who have additional diseases related to obesity, such as diabetes or hypertension. It is also an important criterion for the candidate to have previously tried and failed with non-surgical methods like diet and exercise.
Pre-Obesity Surgery Preparation Process
The pre-operative process is key to success. Patients must undergo a comprehensive evaluation to determine if they are suitable for surgery. This evaluation includes different specialties such as endocrinology, cardiology, pulmonology, psychiatry, and dietetics. This multidisciplinary approach aims to minimize surgical risks and achieve the best possible results.
Obesity Surgery Methods: An Overview
There are many different methods used in obesity surgery. These operations fundamentally involve reducing stomach volume or rearranging the digestive system. The most common methods include Sleeve Gastrectomy, Gastric Bypass, and Gastric Balloon. Each method has its own advantages and risks, and the most suitable one is chosen according to the patient’s condition.
Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery: The Most Popular Method
Sleeve Gastrectomy is the most frequently performed obesity surgery method in Turkey and worldwide. In this surgery, approximately 80% of the stomach is irreversibly removed. The remaining part takes on a tube shape. This allows the patient to eat less and feel full more quickly. At the same time, because a part of the stomach that secretes the appetite hormone ghrelin is removed, appetite also decreases. The surgery is performed laparoscopically (closed method), and the recovery process is relatively fast.
Gastric Bypass Surgery: Mechanism of Action
Gastric Bypass is a mixed operation where both the stomach is reduced and a part of the small intestine is bypassed. This method allows patients to eat less and also reduces the absorption of the nutrients they consume. It can be an effective solution, especially for patients with additional diseases related to obesity, such as diabetes. Since it is a more complex operation than Sleeve Gastrectomy, it may require a longer hospital stay and more intensive follow-up.
Gastric Balloon Application: A Non-Surgical Option
The gastric balloon offers an alternative for patients who do not want a surgical procedure or are not suitable for one. A balloon is endoscopically placed in the stomach and inflated to occupy a volume. This allows the patient to feel full by eating less. The gastric balloon is usually removed after 6 or 12 months. Although it is less risky than surgery, it is not a permanent solution, and the patient can start to regain weight after the balloon is removed.
Gastric Botox: A New Treatment Approach
Gastric botox is one of the newest non-surgical obesity treatment methods. Botox injections are endoscopically applied to specific areas of the stomach. This slows down the contraction of the stomach muscles, prolonging the digestion time and allowing the patient to feel full for a longer period. It is not a permanent solution, and its effect usually wears off after 6 months. It can be a suitable method for individuals with a small amount of excess weight.
Revision Surgery: A Second Chance
In cases where the first obesity surgery is unsuccessful or weight regain occurs, revision surgery can be an option. These operations can be more complex and risky than the first surgery. Therefore, a detailed evaluation and working with an experienced surgeon are crucial before deciding on revision surgery.
Robotic Surgery: Integration of Technology into Health
Robotic surgery systems (e.g., the Da Vinci Robot) are widely used in modern hospitals in Turkey. Robotic surgery provides the surgeon with more precision, better visualization, and a less invasive operation. This means less blood loss, less pain, and a faster recovery for the patients.
The Quality and Accreditations of Hospitals in Turkey
Many obesity centers in Turkey provide services at international standards. Hospitals with prestigious accreditations such as Joint Commission International (JCI) offer the highest level of assurance regarding patient safety and service quality. A professional agency like Cure Holiday will direct you to these accredited and reliable hospitals.
Post-Surgery Hospital Stay Process
The hospital stay after obesity surgery is typically 3-5 days. During this period, patients are under the close supervision of the surgical team. Pain management is provided, initial fluid intake begins, and detailed information about the post-operative process is given. The patient is closely monitored during this period, and precautions are taken against potential complications.
Post-Surgery Nutrition and Diet Plan
Obesity surgery is not a magic wand. Success depends on the patient’s adherence to new eating habits after the surgery. The first few weeks after surgery involve a liquid-only diet, followed by a transition to pureed and soft foods, and finally, adaptation to solid foods. The support of a dietitian is vital during this process.
The Importance of Vitamin and Mineral Supplements
Especially after surgeries that affect absorption, such as Gastric Bypass, patients may need to use vitamin and mineral supplements for life. Deficiencies in Vitamin B12, iron, calcium, and Vitamin D can be common. Regular use of these supplements prevents long-term health problems.
Physical Activity: An Indispensable Part of a New Life
Physical activity is very important for continued weight loss and as a part of the new lifestyle after surgery. Activity begins with walks in the first phase and can progress to more intense exercises later on. Regular exercise helps maintain muscle mass and speeds up metabolism.
Psychological Support: Mental Transformation
Obesity is not only a physical problem but also a psychological one. The rapid weight loss and the process of adapting to a new lifestyle after surgery can bring psychological challenges. Seeking support from a psychologist or therapist helps manage this process in a healthier and more successful way.
Medical Tourism Consultancy and Agencies
Working with a medical tourism agency on your obesity treatment journey in Turkey makes the entire process much easier and more comfortable. These agencies organize everything on your behalf, from finding the right hospital and experienced surgeon to arranging flights and accommodation, as well as transfer services.
Your Journey with Cure Holiday: How Can They Help?
Cure Holiday is your most reliable partner on your obesity treatment journey in Turkey. With years of experience, they help you choose the most suitable surgeon and hospital. They closely monitor the entire process before and after the treatment, provide translation services, and plan your stay in Turkey in the most comfortable way. Working with Cure Holiday removes all the question marks in your mind, allowing you to focus only on healing and starting a new life.
The Costs of Obesity Surgery in Turkey
The costs of obesity surgery in Turkey are quite low compared to Western European and North American countries. Although prices vary according to the chosen surgical method, the quality of the hospital, and the surgeon’s experience, they are generally offered in all-inclusive packages. These packages can cover the surgery, hospital stay, medications, and follow-up processes.
The Price-Performance Balance: Why is Turkey Advantageous?
Turkey not only offers affordable prices but also provides high-quality service for these prices. Experienced surgeons, modern medical equipment, and hospitals with international standards like JCI ensure that you get more than your money’s worth. This price-performance balance makes Turkey an attractive option.
Insurance and Payment Options
Some private insurance companies may partially or fully cover obesity surgery. However, patients usually have to pay these costs out of pocket. Centers in Turkey offer various payment options for international patients, such as credit cards and bank transfers. Cure Holiday can assist you to ensure the payment process goes smoothly.
Travel and Visa Procedures to Turkey
Turkey does not require a visa from citizens of many countries, or there is a visa-on-arrival policy. However, a visa application may be required for some countries. It is important to research travel and visa procedures in advance when planning your treatment. Cure Holiday will provide you with all the necessary information during this process.
Accommodation and Transportation Arrangements
Medical tourism packages in Turkey often include hospital and hotel transfers, and even accommodation. Cure Holiday will organize the most suitable hotel options for your treatment process and arrange all your transfers between the hospital and the hotel.
Pre- and Post-Surgery Consultancy in Turkey
Obesity centers in Turkey offer comprehensive consultancy services to their patients before and after surgery. All your questions about the surgery are answered, your nutrition and exercise plans are created, and your recovery process is closely monitored.
Obesity Surgery Outcomes and Success Rates
Obesity surgery enables 80-90% of patients to permanently lose 60-70% of their excess weight. However, success depends on lifestyle changes after the surgery. Surgery is not a solution on its own; it is a new beginning.
Long-Term Increase in Quality of Life
After obesity surgery, patients’ quality of life increases dramatically. Problems like breathing issues, joint pain, and sleep apnea disappear. Patients lead a more active life, their self-confidence increases, and their social lives become richer.
Success Stories of People Who Had Surgery
There are thousands of success stories of people who have undergone obesity surgery in Turkey. These stories can be inspiring for those who want to start a new life.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
This section provides answers to the most frequently asked questions about obesity surgery. The answers to questions such as how long the surgery takes, what the recovery process is like, and whether there will be pain can be found under this heading.
Take the First Step with Cure Holiday: What Can We Do For You?
The fight against obesity can be a difficult process, but you are not alone. The high-quality and affordable obesity treatment options offered by Turkey can open a new door for you on this path. Cure Holiday is ready to make all the preparations on your behalf to help you pass through this door
with confidence. You can trust us to find the right treatment, the most experienced surgeon, and the best accommodation. If you are ready to take the first step towards a new and healthy life, contact Cure Holiday and take advantage of our free consultancy service. Remember, this is not just an operation; it is the beginning of a new life.
