What Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Gastric sleeve surgery involves reducing the patient’s stomach by 80% into the shape of a banana. It works by reducing the volume of the stomach, which consequently decreases the patient’s need to eat large quantities of food. The treatment is performed using laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery. Instead of making a large incision in the patient’s abdomen, 5 small incisions are made. The stomach is reached through these incisions, 80% of the stomach is removed, and the remaining part is stapled shut. Thus, the patient does not have a large incision scar on their body after the surgery. The small incisions made will eventually shrink and disappear to the point of being virtually invisible over time, leading to a much better cosmetic outcome.
What Are The Advantages Of Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Gastric sleeve surgery provides an easier recovery process compared to gastric bypass surgery. Moreover, because it is performed with closed surgery, there is no lengthy recovery period following the treatment. Additionally, unlike gastric bypass, no changes are made to the small intestine or the stomach’s entry and exit valves, which prevents the patient from experiencing severe issues with nutrient absorption or critical vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Therefore, adapting to the new stomach structure is quite easy. This is a significant advantage for patients concerned about lifelong malabsorption and the complexity of their supplement regimen after the procedure.
Who Is Suitable For Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Gastric sleeve surgery is suitable for individuals between the ages of 18 and 65 with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 and above. However, in some cases, patients who do not meet the age and BMI criteria may still receive treatment. The final decision in these situations is always made by a doctor based on the results of a consultation. For example, patients with a BMI under 40 who suffer from obesity-related diseases such as diabetes or sleep apnea can be treated. Also, individuals over the age of 65 who are otherwise in good general health may be candidates for the treatment. Therefore, to get the most accurate answer, you can send us a message and consult with our doctors.
How Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery Performed?
Gastric sleeve surgery is a surgical operation performed through small incisions made in your abdomen. In this method, surgeons use special instruments to remove approximately 80% of the stomach. The surgery is guided by a thin telescope with a small camera at the end, allowing the entire procedure to be monitored on a screen. The meticulous, step-by-step nature of the operation, executed via keyhole technique, is what makes the recovery phase shorter and the procedure less invasive compared to traditional open surgery methods.
Steps of the Surgery:
- First, the abdominal area is inflated with carbon dioxide gas. This provides the surgeon with a wider working space. Then, entry into the abdomen is made with a special instrument called a trocar.
- An important phase of the surgery is determining the new shape and size of the stomach. For this purpose, a silicone tube is inserted orally and extends into the stomach down to the pylorus (the stomach outlet).
- The surgeon separates the stomach from the surrounding fat tissue, blood vessels, and the spleen.
- The determined excess stomach tissue is cut and separated using special staplers (staple-like instruments). This removed piece is then taken out of the body and sent to the laboratory for pathological examination.
- Bleeding in the stapled area is controlled. If necessary, additional staplers or sutures may be applied to ensure a tight seal.
- Certain medications may also be applied to the wound to stop any residual bleeding and promote healing of the staple line.
- Finally, a silicone drain is placed in the surgical area to empty accumulated fluids, and the wound is closed aesthetically with absorbable sutures to minimize scarring.
How Long Does Gastric Sleeve Surgery Take?
Gastric sleeve is one of the most preferred surgeries for weight loss. This is because the closed technique is applied in gastric sleeve surgery, and the patient’s recovery period is shorter compared to other treatments, which makes it a frequent choice for patients. The surgery is not performed with open surgery, and the patient is under general anesthesia throughout the procedure. The operation lasts around 1 hour and 30 minutes on average. After the surgery, the patient must stay in the hospital for a few days for close monitoring before being discharged to the hotel for further recovery.
What Are The Potential Risks Of Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Not only gastric sleeve, but every surgery carries risks. Many operations performed under general anesthesia involve risks. However, these risks decrease or increase depending on the patient’s health status and the doctor’s success rate. Therefore, your risks will be minimized if you choose to have treatment with us, as we work with the best hospitals and doctors in Turkey. However, if you still want to know the risks of gastric sleeve surgery, the following risks have a slight chance of occurring: blood clots forming in the leg veins due to the patient’s weight, and respiratory problems occurring in 1% of cases, especially due to leakage from the staple line and related abscesses.
How Much Weight Can Be Lost With Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
The amount of weight a patient loses after surgery depends on the individual. However, on average, a patient is expected to lose 70% of their excess weight within one year, and this weight loss increases further in the following periods. In some cases, even if the patient regains some weight, the possibility of the patient returning to their former weight is only 1%. This is because the gastric sleeve significantly reduces the patient’s need to eat, and the patient experiences a feeling of fullness for a long time after a meal. Patients who adhere to diet and exercise after surgery are likely to experience even faster and more significant weight loss, maximizing the surgical outcome.
Is It Safe To Get Gastric Sleeve Surgery In Turkey?
Turkey can offer treatments that are higher quality and more successful than those found in many other countries, particularly due to its experienced surgeons and modern facilities. You can contact us to receive affordable treatments at the most successful hospitals in Turkey. We work with the best surgeons in the country, and the low cost of living and high foreign exchange rate in Turkey ensure that you receive treatment in the best hospitals with the finest equipment, yet at a lower cost than you would pay in your home country, guaranteeing both quality and value.
How Long Do The Results Of Stomach Surgery Last?
This process depends on the patient’s condition and nutritional routine. Although it is not possible to say exactly how much weight the patient will lose and in what time frame, it is possible to see a noticeable difference after at least 3 months. However, to see the final results, the patient should wait 1 year after the surgery. Nevertheless, the patient will have experienced significant weight loss between 3 and 6 months post-operation. It is crucial to remember that maintaining these results requires a lifelong commitment to the lifestyle changes adopted during this initial period.
What Is The Recovery Process Like After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Although the recovery process varies depending on the patient, those working in desk jobs or jobs requiring little movement can return to work within 1 to 10 days. However, patients working in heavy-duty jobs should wait up to 6 weeks before returning to work. This prolonged wait is important because patients doing heavy work are at risk of damaging their abdominal wall and experiencing bleeding at the incision sites, which could severely complicate the recovery process and compromise the surgical result.
Why Are Costs Lower In Turkey Compared To Europe?
The main reasons why healthcare costs in Turkey are lower compared to Europe or America include more favorable general operating expenses, personnel costs, and lower tax burdens. This does not mean that the quality of medical devices and surgical equipment is compromised; Turkey is known for its modern hospitals with international accreditations and highly experienced surgical teams. The price advantage stems from the country’s economic structure and incentives for health tourism. This enables patients to have the opportunity to receive high-quality service at much more affordable prices, making it a globally attractive medical destination.
What Is Included In The All-Inclusive Gastric Sleeve Package?
“All-Inclusive” gastric sleeve packages are generally designed to manage the treatment process for patients coming from abroad in Turkey comfortably and stress-free from start to finish. These packages cover not only the surgical operation itself but also airport welcoming and transfer services, accommodation in luxury hotels, hospital admission and discharge procedures, all necessary pre-operative medical tests, the cost of medical supplies used, and medications during the hospital stay. The initial consultations and nutritional counseling necessary for the first year of post-operative follow-up are also included in this scope, so patients do not encounter unexpected additional costs and can focus entirely on their recovery.
Does The Package Price Cover Pre-Operative Tests?
Yes, one of the most important advantages of all-inclusive gastric sleeve packages is that they cover the cost of the comprehensive pre-operative tests mandatory for determining surgical suitability. These tests generally include blood analyses, ECG, chest X-ray, internal medicine, and cardiology consultations, as well as an endoscopy. These preliminary evaluations are vital for minimizing the patient’s surgical risk and ensuring the surgical team makes the safest decision. Including the tests in the package eliminates the obligation for patients to make extra payments upon their arrival in Turkey.
How Many Days Of Hospital Stay Are Included In The Price?
In typical all-inclusive gastric sleeve packages, a hospital stay of generally 2 to 4 nights is included in the cost for the patient’s safe post-operative recovery period. This duration is considered sufficient for the surgical team to closely monitor the patient’s general condition, fluid intake, and potential early complication risks. Hospital accommodation is usually provided comfortably in single or suite rooms, often including facilities for a companion. If this period needs to be extended (due to medical necessity), it may be included in the initial cost in some packages, while in others, it may be subject to additional fees; it is important to clarify this detail before booking.
Is Accommodation For A Companion Included In The Package?
Many comprehensive all-inclusive packages also cover the accommodation expenses of one companion brought along for the patient’s comfort and emotional support. This accommodation is generally valid for a certain period in the hotel (4 or 5-star) where the patient stays after being discharged from the hospital. The companion’s meals and airport transfers may also be included in this coverage. This feature provides great comfort and cost advantage, especially for patients receiving treatment in a foreign country, allowing the patient to focus entirely on the recovery process without worrying about their support person.
Are Transfers Between The Airport, Hotel, And Hospital Included In The Package?
Absolutely yes. One of the cornerstones of the all-inclusive concept is that all of the patient’s transportation needs are met from the moment they arrive in Turkey. This covers transfer services provided by luxury, private vehicles, including airport to hotel, hotel to hospital, and return airport transfers. This service eliminates the stress of navigating a foreign city and ensures the patient moves with maximum comfort and safety during the pre- and post-operative period, allowing the patient to concentrate only on their treatment and recovery.
Are Anesthesia Fees Included In The Price?
Yes, all-inclusive packages cover the costs of the anesthesiologist’s fees, who is part of the surgical team and vital for the operation’s safety, as well as the cost of all anesthesia materials used. Anesthesia is an integral part of major operations requiring general anesthesia, such as gastric sleeve surgery. Including this fee in the package prevents patients from encountering unexpected surprise bills on the day of the operation and makes cost planning transparent. This comprehensive coverage ensures that there are no hidden charges related to the critical aspect of patient safety during the procedure.
Are There Any Hidden Costs I Should Be Aware Of?
Although all-inclusive packages are as transparent as possible, there are some situations patients should be mindful of. For example, the extension of the planned hospital stay (e.g., exceeding 4 days) due to a rarely occurring serious complication or the need for intensive care may lead to additional costs. Furthermore, personal expenses not specified in the package content (meals outside the hotel, shopping, excursions) and elements like vitamin supplements required for long-term use are not included in the package. Therefore, it is important to check the full scope of the package in writing before finalizing the arrangements.
Are Post-Operative Follow-up Services Included In The Cost?
Yes, the first year of post-operative follow-up services, which are vital for the continuity of a successful bariatric surgery process, are generally included in the package. This follow-up includes regular remote (online) consultations with the dietitian and surgical team. These meetings, held at specific intervals (e.g., monthly or quarterly) during the first year, are critical for monitoring the patient’s weight loss progress, nutritional habits, and vitamin levels. This service, which guarantees long-term success, is an important indicator of treatment quality and patient support.
How Does The Medical Team’s Experience Affect The Price?
One of the biggest factors influencing the price of gastric sleeve surgery is the experience and expertise level of the surgical team, especially the surgeon. Surgeons and teams with high volume, international recognition, and long-standing experience naturally offer higher-cost packages. This generally translates to a lower risk of complications, faster recovery processes, and better long-term outcomes. When comparing costs, you should remember that a low price should not be the sole criterion, and investment in experience is vital for your safety and the success of the operation.
Are Aesthetic Surgeries Included In The Initial Package?
No, as a rule, body contouring (plastic) surgeries aimed at eliminating skin sagging that may occur after rapid weight loss are not included in the initial gastric sleeve surgery package. Plastic surgery operations (tummy tuck, arm lift, etc.) are additional procedures performed with separate planning and cost, usually when weight loss has stabilized (generally 1-1.5 years after the surgery). All-inclusive packages focus on bariatric surgery; you will need to budget separately for aesthetic procedures.
What Is The Total Duration Of The Trip To Turkey?
The recommended total travel duration for gastric sleeve treatment in Turkey is generally 5 to 7 days, allowing the patient to safely complete pre-operative tests, undergo the surgery, and pass the early recovery period. This duration includes 2-4 nights spent in the hospital and the recovery days spent at the hotel. During this time, all your medical follow-ups are completed, and you are ensured to be in a safe condition to return to your country. This short duration makes planning quite easy, especially for working patients.
Are Dietitian Consultations Included In The Package?
Yes, dietitian consultations, which are an integral part of all-inclusive packages, cover both the pre- and post-operative processes. Before the surgery, the patient’s nutritional habits are evaluated, and the pre-operative diet program is determined. After the surgery, the patient’s transition stages to liquid, pureed, and solid foods are managed with regular remote follow-ups throughout the first year. This professional support is critically important for the patient to permanently adapt to the new nutritional regimen and prevent malnutrition.
Does The Package Include Mandatory Vitamin Supplements?
Although all-inclusive gastric sleeve packages generally cover the medications used during the hospital stay, they do not directly include the vitamin and mineral supplements that are mandatory for lifelong use in the main cost of the package. This is because the supplements are determined according to personal needs and blood test results, and it is more practical for the patient to procure them from their own country or a chosen pharmacy. Nevertheless, some premium packages may offer the first few months’ supply as a gesture. It is important to clarify this detail when purchasing the package.
What Are The Payment Options Used For The Surgery?
Health tourism centers in Turkey offer various options for international patients to easily make payments. The most common among these include bank transfer (via IBAN), cash payment upon arrival at the hospital (usually in Euro or USD), and credit card payment (may incur an extra fee due to bank commissions). The payment plan and accepted currencies should be clearly determined before the trip and secured with a contract to avoid being affected by exchange rate differences. Reliable coordinators like Cure Holiday help minimize exchange rate risk by ensuring transparency in payment processes.
Does Health Insurance Cover Any Part Of The Package Cost?
Private health insurance of patients coming from abroad in their home countries generally does not directly cover the cost of elective bariatric surgical procedures like gastric sleeve. Insurance coverage is usually limited to life-threatening emergencies or treatments specifically stated in the insurance policy. However, some insurance companies may cover a portion of the pre-operative tests or emergency treatment costs abroad. For definitive information, it is essential to discuss the details of your policy with your insurance provider before coming to Turkey.
How Does City Selection Affect Costs?
Turkey offers high-quality health services in different cities, but the choice of city where the surgery will be performed can affect the cost. Large cities like Istanbul, Izmir, and Antalya generally offer more developed and comprehensive packages because they have greater competition and international patient volume. Transportation and accommodation costs can also vary from city to city. When comparing costs, it is important to consider not only the price but also the comfort and transfer convenience offered by the hospital’s location.
Are Language Interpretation Services Included In The Package?
Yes, professional language interpretation services are essential for all-inclusive packages offered to international patients. This service is provided to ensure seamless communication at every stage, from the patient’s welcoming at the airport to hospital admission, all consultations with the surgeon and other medical personnel, and discharge procedures. Interpretation service is a critical factor for the patient to feel safe and fully understand the medical information they receive.
What Kind Of Accommodation Is Provided In The Package?
Accommodation in all-inclusive packages is generally provided in 4 or 5-star hotels that comply with international standards for the post-hospital recovery period. The duration of accommodation usually ranges between 2 and 4 nights, and single or shared room options with a companion are offered depending on the package scope. It is particularly important that the accommodation is in a location close to and easily accessible from the hospital for the patient’s comfort and quick intervention in emergencies.
Does The Package Cover Revision Surgery If Necessary?
Standard all-inclusive gastric sleeve packages generally cover the cost of the initial surgery. If the need for revision surgery (corrective surgery) arises, this procedure is evaluated differently depending on whether it is a complication of the first surgery. Generally, correcting a rare and serious complication arising from the initial surgery may be covered by the center’s guarantee, while revisions requested for reasons such as insufficient weight loss are subject to a separate cost. You should carefully review your contract for the terms of revision.
Are Post-Discharge Medications Included In The Package?
All medications used during the hospital stay after the surgery (painkillers, antibiotics, etc.) are generally included in the all-inclusive package. However, medications that need to be used for the first few weeks after discharge (e.g., stomach protectors, blood thinners) and long-term mandatory vitamin/mineral supplements may be requested from the patient as a separate cost item in some packages. This can vary depending on the package scope and the pharmacy where the medications are procured; it is important to get clear information on this matter.
How Does The Exchange Rate Affect The Final Cost?
Health tourism costs in Turkey are generally determined in Euro or USD, but exchange rate differences at the time of payment may affect the payment made by the patient according to their own currency. Patients often prefer to make payments via bank transfer from their home countries, and to protect against currency fluctuations, it is important to fix the payment date early or clarify the price with a contract. Reliable coordinators like Cure Holiday help minimize exchange rate risk by ensuring transparency in payment processes.
What Are The Necessary Documents For Travel And Surgery?
The basic documents you need to have with you when traveling to Turkey for gastric sleeve surgery are a valid passport, medical reports showing your health history and chronic diseases, a list of medications you use, and details of any previous weight loss attempts. If you plan to use any part of your insurance, insurance policy details are also required. Your center will provide you with a list of all necessary documents for scheduling and process management before your trip.
Is The Price Fixed Or Does It Change According To BMI?
Most all-inclusive packages offer a generally fixed price. However, an additional risk or time fee may be requested from patients with a very high BMI (e.g., 60 and above), those with additional medical risks, or those requiring a surgically more challenging operation due to previous abdominal surgeries. This additional fee may result from the need for extra surgical equipment or a longer operation time to increase the safety of the surgery. Therefore, it is important to clarify the final price by notifying your BMI value in advance.
Are Travel-Related Health Checks Included In The Package?
Packages cover mandatory pre-operative medical tests (blood, endoscopy, etc.). However, PCR tests or other special entry/exit health checks that may be required according to the current travel rules of your country or Turkey are generally not included in the package. The cost and organization of these checks are the patient’s own responsibility. However, your health tourism coordinator will certainly guide you on where and how to get these tests done.
What Happens To Long-Term Accommodation In Case Of Complication?
When longer-than-anticipated hospital stay is required due to the development of a complication, which is one of the rarest and most undesirable situations in surgery, hospital costs may exceed the initial scope of the package. Reliable health tourism companies offer an additional insurance or guarantee option for such situations. The contract terms should clearly state how much of the patient’s extra accommodation and treatment expenses are included in the package and at what point additional fees are charged.
Is There A Guarantee For The Surgical Procedure?
It is not legally possible to provide a medical guarantee for bariatric surgical procedures, as every medical outcome depends on the patient’s biological makeup and compliance. However, reliable centers generally offer a commitment for additional treatment or a corrective operation for a certain period (e.g., the first 1 year) for issues caused by technical errors, such as a staple line leak or early complications. A weight loss guarantee, however, depends on the patient’s adherence to lifestyle changes and cannot be promised.
How Important Is The Quality Of Hospital Accreditation?
The quality of hospital accreditation (e.g., international certifications like JCI – Joint Commission International) is vital for the safety and success of the surgery. Accredited hospitals have proven that they have international standard equipment, hygiene, patient safety protocols, and experienced personnel. Many hospitals in Turkey have such international accreditations. This provides an important assurance about the quality of the service patients will receive abroad and is a factor that affects cost but should not be compromised.
Does The Package Cover Special Needs Equipment?
Standard all-inclusive gastric sleeve packages generally include basic medical supports that the patient may need during the surgery process and hotel accommodation (e.g., wheelchair support within the hospital). However, special needs equipment that the patient does not bring from their own country and needs for long-term use (e.g., continuous medical oxygen device or a special wheelchair) is not included in the package. If there are such special requirements, they should be shared with the organization team before the trip, and the procurement process should be clarified.
What Is The Scope Of Post-Operative Patient Care?
The scope of post-operative patient care includes a process that begins after discharge from the hospital and continues with long-term follow-ups. This scope generally includes remote dietitian and doctor consultations during the first year, a support line you can contact in emergencies, and the interpretation of periodic blood test results. This comprehensive care ensures that the patient is not alone on their weight loss journey and that nutritional deficiencies or psychological difficulties that may arise are intervened in promptly.
How Is Travel Insurance Managed For Patients?
Although all-inclusive packages generally cover their own medical services and complication risks, international travel insurance or comprehensive complication insurance should be arranged separately by the patient. These insurances may cover situations such as travel cancellations, lost luggage, as well as rare but serious medical conditions that may require long-term treatment. Your health tourism coordinator can provide you with consultation regarding these insurance options, but procuring the policy is the patient’s responsibility.
Are Pre-Operative Psychological Evaluations Included In The Package?
Yes, pre-operative psychological evaluations and consultations, which are vital for determining surgical suitability, are generally included in the all-inclusive package. This evaluation measures the patient’s potential to adapt to the new lifestyle post-surgery, emotional eating habits, and realistic expectations from the surgery. These consultations ensure that the surgical team is confident that the patient is ready for the operation both physically and mentally.
How Can I Verify The Credentials Of The Surgical Team?
Reliable health tourism companies and hospitals operating in Turkey should transparently share the surgical team’s diplomas, specialization certificates, and national/international accreditation documents (e.g., Turkish Medical Association membership). Patients can verify the team’s competence by requesting this information and checking the accreditation status of the hospitals through the websites of relevant institutions (e.g., JCI or the Ministry of Health). This transparency is a fundamental criterion for the patient to make a safe choice.
What Is The Best Time To Travel To Turkey For Surgery?
The best time to travel to Turkey for gastric sleeve surgery generally depends on the patient’s personal preferences and climate expectations. Spring (April-June) and Autumn (September-October) are the periods when temperatures are milder, and the travel/recovery process is more comfortable. These seasons are ideal for turning your pre- and post-operative rest period into an enjoyable mini-holiday experience. Summer months can be excessively hot, while there might be disruptions in airport transfers during the winter months.
How Does The All-Inclusive Concept Provide Peace Of Mind?
The all-inclusive concept means that every detail of the patient’s medical journey abroad (transfers, accommodation, medical process, interpretation) is managed by a single package and coordinator. This completely eliminates the patient’s anxiety about navigating, communicating, or encountering unexpected costs in a foreign country. The patient can focus solely on recovery, which significantly enhances psychological comfort and thus the speed of physical recovery, directly contributing to the operation’s success and providing a truly stress-free experience.
Conclusion: Why Should You Contact Cure Holiday?
As Cure Holiday, we are here to transform the complex process of gastric sleeve treatment in Turkey into a transparent, safe, and comfortable experience for you. Our all-inclusive packages combine the highest quality surgical service with the most experienced teams, offered at Turkey’s advantageous cost structure. For this important life-changing decision, please contact Cure Holiday immediately for professional support regarding cost transparency, long-term follow-up support, and flawless organization. We look forward to creating a personalized treatment and cost plan just for you.
