Urla, surrounded by the olive trees and vineyards of the Aegean, known for its tranquility and high quality of life, has started to make a name for itself not only with gastronomy and art but also with modern health services. Turkey, in general, attracts international patients by offering high-standard bariatric surgery (obesity surgery) services at much more affordable costs compared to Western countries. If you are struggling with obesity and are considering Gastric Sleeve surgery, let’s take a detailed look at the advantages of having treatment in Urla, the costs, and how Cure Holiday can facilitate this vital process.
What is Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy)?
Gastric Sleeve is a bariatric surgical procedure where approximately 75% to 85% of the stomach is surgically removed, and the stomach is transformed into a banana-shaped, tube-like structure. This procedure both restricts the amount of food consumed by reducing the stomach’s volume and diminishes the patient’s appetite by removing the region (the fundus part of the stomach) where the hunger hormone Ghrelin is secreted.
Who is Suitable for Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
General eligibility criteria for Gastric Sleeve surgery include:
- Those with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher (Morbid Obesity).
- Those with a BMI between 35-40 who also have severe obesity-related health problems such as Type 2 Diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), sleep apnea, or high cholesterol.
- Having tried and failed other weight loss methods (diet, exercise).
- Possessing the psychological and mental maturity to adhere to lifestyle changes after surgery.
What Are the Advantages of the Surgery?
Gastric Sleeve is a relatively short and less complex procedure compared to other bariatric operations. Its main advantages are: Stomach functions are largely preserved, the risk of vitamin and mineral malabsorption is lower since the intestines are not intervened with (compared to Gastric Bypass), it provides rapid and effective weight loss, and dramatic improvement is seen in obesity-related diseases such as Type 2 Diabetes.
What is the Expected Weight Loss After Surgery?
Patients typically lose an average of 60% to 70% of their excess weight within the first 12 to 18 months following the surgery. The rate of weight loss is highest in the first few months. Success depends on how closely the patient adheres to the advice of their dietitian and doctor, especially regarding regular exercise.
How is Gastric Sleeve Surgery Performed? (Laparoscopic Method)
Gastric Sleeve is almost entirely performed using the laparoscopic (keyhole) method today. Special instruments and a camera (laparoscope) are inserted through a few small incisions (usually 0.5-1 cm) in the abdominal area. This results in less pain, a shorter hospital stay, and faster recovery compared to open surgery. The surgeon vertically cuts and removes a portion of the stomach.
What Are the First Days After Surgery Like?
Patients usually stay in the hospital for 2 to 4 days after surgery. For the first few days, fluids and painkillers are administered intravenously. After the first 24-48 hours, patients gradually start consuming clear liquids under the doctor’s supervision. Pain is usually minimal and can be controlled with medication. Moving early (walking) accelerates recovery.
What Are the Long-Term Risks and Complications of the Surgery?
Like any surgical procedure, Gastric Sleeve has risks. These include; the risk of leakage at the incision site (the most serious complication), infection, bleeding, anesthesia-related risks, and, rarely in the long term, worsening reflux or malnutrition risk (in cases of prolonged non-compliance with follow-up). Experienced surgeons minimize these risks.
How Does the Post-Surgery Diet Change?
The diet undergoes a lifelong change. The first 4 weeks usually involve a phased transition: Clear liquids (first week), pureed foods (second week), soft foods (third week), and then a slow transition to solid foods. Important rules: Portion control, chewing food slowly and well, separating solids and liquids (no fluids 30 minutes before and after meals).
Which Vitamin Supplements Are Required After Surgery?
Although the risk of malabsorption is low in Gastric Sleeve, supplementation is necessary because the stomach volume is reduced and the tolerance for some nutrients may change. Experts generally recommend lifelong use of Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, Calcium, and multivitamin supplements after bariatric surgery.
Is Gastric Sleeve a Reversible Surgery?
No, Gastric Sleeve is not a reversible surgery because the removed portion of the stomach cannot be reattached to the body. However, rarely due to reasons such as insufficient weight loss or severe reflux, the remaining tube stomach may be converted to another bariatric surgery like Gastric Bypass or SADI-S in the future.
Is There a Risk of Reflux After Surgery?
Gastric Sleeve surgery may worsen reflux complaints or cause new reflux development in some patients (especially those who had reflux complaints before the surgery). This is caused by the increase in pressure in the stomach. Patients experiencing reflux may be recommended another type of surgery, such as Gastric Bypass, which reduces reflux, or may be treated with medication by their doctors.
When Should Aesthetic Surgery (Body Contouring) Be Performed After Surgery?
Rapid and significant weight loss after gastric sleeve surgery can cause sagging in the body. Aesthetic surgery (tummy tuck, arm lift, breast lift, etc.) is generally recommended 18 to 24 months after the surgery, when the weight has stabilized and the body’s adaptation process is complete.
What Are the Psychological Effects of Bariatric Surgery?
Gastric Sleeve triggers a major psychological change process, not just a physical one. While rapid weight loss increases self-confidence, the radical change in eating habits, saying goodbye to old habits, and adapting to a new identity can be challenging. Psychological support is crucial during this period.
Which Tests Are Performed Before Surgery?
The process before bariatric surgery is detailed and multidisciplinary. Comprehensive blood tests, endoscopy, chest X-ray, cardiology consultation, psychiatry/psychologist evaluation, and internal medicine consultation are required to assess the patient’s general health status, surgical risks, and potential for success.
What Are the Factors Affecting Gastric Sleeve Prices?
Prices vary significantly depending on the surgeon’s experience and specialization (bariatric surgeon), the quality and equipment of the hospital where the surgery will be performed (accreditations), the brand of surgical materials used (staplers), the length of hospital stay, and the additional services offered (dietitian follow-up, interpreter services, transfer).
Urla’s Serenity and Its Contribution to the Recovery Process
Urla is a peaceful and natural Aegean town, far from the complex metropolitan life of Izmir, known for its tranquility and high quality of life. Recovery after gastric sleeve surgery is a mental process as much as a physical one. Urla’s calm atmosphere, clean air, and stress-free environment provide an excellent setting for patients to rest and recover after surgery.
High-Standard Hospitals and Expert Bariatric Centers
Hospitals in Urla and its vicinity (Izmir) operate in accordance with international standards (such as JCI accreditation) and are equipped with the latest technology laparoscopic equipment. Health centers in Urla host experienced surgeons in the field of bariatric surgery who have received European standard training.
The Allure of Urla Gastric Sleeve Prices Compared to Europe
The prices for Gastric Sleeve surgery at bariatric surgery centers in Urla or Izmir are 60% to 75% lower compared to the same quality of surgery in countries like the UK, Germany, the US, or other Western European countries. This significant cost advantage makes the treatment accessible to international patients.
Urla’s Unique Gastronomy and Healthy Nutrition Environment
Urla is a region where the healthiest and most natural foods of the Aegean are grown (olive oil, herbs, fresh vegetables). Adopting healthy eating habits after surgery is of critical importance. Urla’s natural and light Aegean cuisine helps patients easily adapt to their new diet.
Easy Access via Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB)
Urla is just a short 40-50 minute drive from Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB), which has intensive international flights. This logistical ease means fast and comfortable transfers for patients arriving from abroad.
The Perfect Combination of Treatment and Holiday
It is possible to spend the recovery period in Urla’s chic boutique hotels or tranquil seaside facilities after the hospital stay. Light walks and rest after the surgery turn into a pleasant recovery holiday in the peaceful atmosphere of the Aegean.
Multidisciplinary Approach in Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric centers in Urla or affiliated Izmir hospitals are managed by a multidisciplinary team consisting not only of a surgeon but also experienced dietitians, psychologists, cardiologists, and internists. This holistic approach increases treatment success.
Long-Term Dietitian and Follow-up Support
The success of gastric sleeve surgery depends on long-term follow-up. Clinics in Urla and Cure Holiday offer their patients long-term (usually 1 year) remote dietitian and medical follow-up support even after discharge, helping them adapt to their new lifestyle.
Quality in Accommodation and Transfer Organization
Luxury accommodation options around Urla prioritize the comfort of health tourists. Special, comfortable transfers (airport-hotel-hospital) organized by Cure Holiday minimize the stress of patients before and after surgery.
Language Support and Ease of Communication
Health tourism-focused clinics work with interpreters and patient coordinators who provide services in many languages, including English, German, and Russian. Misunderstandings that may arise due to lack of communication before, during, and after the surgery are prevented.
Post-Surgery Psychological Support Opportunity
Bariatric surgery requires a radical change in eating habits. Bariatric centers in Urla provide support from psychologists and psychiatrists to facilitate this process, helping patients cope with emotional eating habits.
Use of Reliable Surgical Materials
Reputable hospitals in Turkey use only globally approved (FDA approved) and high-quality surgical staplers and equipment during surgery. This minimizes the safety risk of the surgery and the risk of complications.
Touristic and Cultural Riches
As energy levels increase during the recovery process, you can visit Urla’s art galleries, olive and vineyard routes, and the historical Sığacık Castle, enjoying a new life in the relaxing atmosphere of the Aegean.
Facilitating Adaptation to Post-Surgery Lifestyle Change
Urla’s healthy living philosophy and quality food and beverage culture enable patients to adapt to new, healthy portion control and eating habits more motivatedly.
Transparency of Treatment and Absence of Hidden Costs
Hospitals in Urla/Izmir serving international patients generally offer “all-inclusive” package pricing. This ensures that the patient knows the total cost, including hospital expenses, surgical equipment, doctor’s fee, accommodation, and transfer, in advance.
What is Cure Holiday and Why is it a Vital Partner?
Cure Holiday is a specialized intermediary organization in international health tourism. In a critical treatment process like obesity surgery, it connects patients with the best bariatric surgeons and fully equipped hospitals in Urla/Izmir. Its main mission is to organize treatment, accommodation, and logistics processes under one roof, safely and transparently.
Cure Holiday’s Comprehensive Gastric Sleeve Packages
Cure Holiday adopts the concept of “holistic health travel.” Their packages usually include:
- Detailed pre-operative medical tests.
- Gastric Sleeve surgery by an expert bariatric surgeon.
- Length of stay in a fully equipped hospital.
- Necessary post-operative medication and medical supplies.
- Recovery period accommodation in a 4/5 star hotel.
- VIP transfers from airport-hotel-hospital.
- Multilingual interpretation service.
- 1 year of remote dietitian and medical follow-up support.
Free and Remote Pre-Evaluation Process
When you contact Cure Holiday, a dedicated coordinator is assigned to you. This coordinator gathers your medical history, BMI information, and existing health issues to arrange a free pre-consultation with bariatric surgeons in Urla. This way, you clarify your eligibility for surgery and the estimated cost before coming to Turkey.
Guarantee of Reliable Surgeon and Hospital Selection
The success of Gastric Sleeve surgery depends on the surgeon’s experience. Cure Holiday collaborates only with bariatric surgeons and JCI-accredited hospitals in Urla and Izmir that have international accreditations, a high volume of cases, and a proven track record of success. This meticulous selection process keeps patient safety at the highest level.
Price Transparency and Prevention of Hidden Costs
Bariatric surgery is a costly process. Cure Holiday offers package prices transparently from start to finish. All expenses, from pre-operative tests to surgical staples, accommodation, and follow-up, are included in a single price, eliminating the risk of unexpected additional fees that can be encountered abroad.
Personal VIP Assistance During Treatment
A personal patient coordinator accompanies you throughout your entire trip (from airport arrival to departure). This assistant provides appointment coordination, interpretation, and caters to all your needs at the hospital and hotel. This prevents you from feeling alone in a foreign country and allows you to focus solely on recovery.
Comfortable and Safe Transfer Logistics
Cure Holiday organizes all transfers between Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport and the hospital and hotel using luxurious and comfortable private vehicles. This seamless logistical support is critical for your comfort and safety during the sensitive post-operative period.
Long-Term Medical Follow-up After Surgery
One of the greatest advantages of Cure Holiday is that they do not leave the patient alone after discharge. The remote follow-up service, usually lasting 1 year, provides regular meetings with your dietitian, checks your vitamin supplements, and ensures instant connection with your physician in case of possible health issues. This follow-up is vital for long-term success.
Success Stories and International References
Cure Holiday shares before/after photos and positive feedback from numerous international patients who underwent Gastric Sleeve surgery in Urla/Izmir on its website and social media channels. These real references are a source of confidence and motivation for potential patients.
Support for Transitioning to a New Lifestyle in Urla
Cure Holiday supports not only the surgery but also the transition to a new lifestyle. These support programs, combined with Urla’s natural, healthy, and calm environment, help patients achieve their nutrition and physical activity goals more easily.
Access to Turkey’s Best Bariatric Surgeons
Since Cure Holiday works with surgeons who adhere to the highest standards of expertise and ethics in the region, patients are guaranteed access to Turkey’s best bariatric specialists in the field, without being hindered by geographical barriers.
Guide to Taking the First Step with Cure Holiday
To start a new life in Urla and plan your gastric sleeve surgery process, fill out the contact form on Cure Holiday’s website or reach out via WhatsApp. Immediately start your free pre-evaluation and receive a personalized health holiday package price quote.
Why Urla and Cure Holiday?
Gastric Sleeve surgery is a life-changing decision rather than just an aesthetic procedure. Urla’s peaceful Aegean environment offers a perfect atmosphere for post-operative recovery and establishing new habits.
Cure Holiday manages this complex and important process with high-quality hospitals, expert surgeons, transparent prices, and flawless logistical support, taking all the stress off the patient. Contact Cure Holiday to both restore your physical health and discover the beauties of the Aegean, and step into a new life!
