What is Gastric Sleeve Surgery (Sleeve Gastrectomy)?
Gastric sleeve surgery, scientifically known as Sleeve Gastrectomy, is a popular bariatric surgical method that provides permanent weight loss for individuals struggling with obesity. During this procedure, approximately 75-80% of the stomach is surgically removed. The remaining portion takes the shape of a banana, allowing the patient to consume significantly less food. Another crucial effect of the surgery is the removal of the part of the stomach responsible for producing Ghrelin, the hunger hormone. This ensures the patient feels full with less food and their appetite is drastically reduced, substantially increasing the chances of long-term success.
Who is Eligible for Gastric Sleeve?
Gastric Sleeve surgery is generally suitable for individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 and above, or those with a BMI of 35-39.9 who suffer from severe obesity-related health issues such as Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. These patients must have previously failed to achieve permanent weight loss through conventional methods like diet and exercise. The decision-making process involves a detailed evaluation by a specialized multidisciplinary team, considering not only physical criteria but also the patient’s psychological and mental readiness to handle the surgical risks. This thorough assessment is critical for the long-term success of the treatment.
How Long Does the Surgery Procedure Take?
The Gastric Sleeve surgery itself, when performed using the laparoscopic (keyhole) technique by an experienced surgical team, takes an average of 60 to 90 minutes. This duration does not include the anesthesia preparation and recovery stages. The length of the hospital stay typically ranges from 3 to 4 days. Patients begin to stand up and walk a few hours after the operation. While the time required for complete recovery and return to normal life varies from person to person, it usually occurs within 2 to 4 weeks. The organizational efficiency of the country where you receive treatment directly impacts how comfortable this entire process will be for you.
What are the Potential Risks of Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, Gastric Sleeve surgery carries potential risks. The most common include bleeding, infection, complications related to anesthesia, and the risk of a staple line leak. Although the risk of a leak is low, it is the most serious complication, and the surgeon’s experience plays a key role in minimizing this risk. It is of utmost importance that the surgery is performed in hospitals with international standards, sterile conditions, and a high volume of surgical experience to minimize all potential risks. The patient’s adherence to the doctor’s instructions is also a vital part of risk management.
What is the Expected Weight Loss After a Successful Surgery?
Patients who undergo Gastric Sleeve surgery are expected to lose, on average, 60% to 70% of their excess weight within the first 12 to 18 months. This success rate varies depending on how well the patient adapts to lifestyle changes following the surgical intervention, whether they engage in regular exercise, and how strictly they adhere to the nutritional guidelines. The surgery is merely a tool; personal motivation, expert dietitian support, and psychological counselling are crucial for lasting success. Having realistic expectations is the foundation for maintaining high motivation throughout the journey.
What Preparations Should Be Done Before Surgery?
The pre-operative preparation period is just as important as the decision for surgery and aims to ensure the patient is physically, mentally, and nutritionally ready. Comprehensive evaluations are typically conducted by a multidisciplinary team consisting of an endocrinologist, cardiologist, psychologist, and dietitian. The patient is required to undergo blood tests, endoscopy, and other necessary imaging. Most surgeons require patients to start a special low-calorie, high-protein diet immediately before the surgery to shrink the liver and make the operation safer and less complicated.
What Should the Post-Surgery Diet Plan Be Like?
The post-surgery diet plan is the beginning of a lifelong change and involves a gradual transition. The first few weeks involve a strict diet consisting of clear liquids, purees, and soft foods. This period allows the stomach to heal and adapt to its new, smaller capacity. Subsequently, the patient transitions to high-protein, low-sugar solid foods. Patients must adhere to rules such as consuming small portions, chewing food very well, and avoiding liquid intake half an hour before and after meals. Dietitian follow-up plays a vital role in preventing nutritional mistakes during this adaptation period.
What is the Importance of Lifestyle Changes?
Gastric Sleeve surgery is not a magic wand; lifestyle changes are essential for permanent weight loss and a healthy life. This involves not only what you eat but also how active you are and how you manage stress. Regular physical activity boosts metabolism, preserves muscle mass, and improves mood. Furthermore, abandoning emotional eating habits, joining support groups, or seeking psychological counselling plays a crucial role in maintaining new and healthy habits. The foundation of the surgery’s success lies in the patient’s willingness to embrace this new life.
Are Vitamin and Mineral Supplements Necessary After Bariatric Surgery?
Although the parts of the stomach responsible for absorption are generally preserved in Gastric Sleeve surgery, some vitamin and mineral deficiencies may occur due to reduced food intake. This is particularly true for micronutrients like Vitamin B12, iron, calcium, and Vitamin D. Surgeons and dietitians strongly recommend that patients take supplements regularly for life and monitor deficiencies with periodic blood tests. These supplements are indispensable for maintaining bone health, reducing the risk of anemia, and keeping overall energy levels high, ensuring the patient’s well-being in the long run.
What are the Long-Term Effects of the Surgery?
The long-term effects of the surgery are generally positive; patients not only lose weight but also recover from many chronic diseases associated with obesity or experience a significant reduction in symptoms. The probability of Type 2 diabetes going into remission is quite high. However, in the long term, some patients may experience weight regain. This risk is associated with a relaxation of lifestyle rules. Regular medical follow-up and a lifelong commitment are essential for maintaining success. Working with the right center during this process is critical for long-term achievement.
Does Insurance Cover Such Treatments?
Insurance coverage for Gastric Sleeve surgery varies greatly depending on the country, the specific insurance plan, and the patient’s medical condition. In many Western countries, coverage requires the patient to meet specific BMI criteria, prove a long history of dieting attempts, and undergo psychological evaluations. However, private health insurance or international plans may sometimes cover these treatments. While this process can be bureaucratic and lengthy in Western European cities like Marseille, treatment in Turkey is generally offered under “health tourism” with specific packages and much faster processing.
What is the Post-Surgery Recovery Time Like?
Post-surgery recovery is quite fast thanks to the laparoscopic method used. Patients typically begin short walks on the first day after the operation. During the first week after discharge from the hospital, energy levels may be low, and rest is needed. Most patients can return to a desk job within 1 to 2 weeks, but they should avoid heavy lifting or strenuous physical activity for 4 to 6 weeks. The key to rapid recovery is strictly following all doctor’s instructions, particularly paying attention to adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration.
What Factors Affect the Cost of Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
The total cost of Gastric Sleeve surgery varies according to geographic location (country or city), the hospital’s and surgeon’s experience, the technology used (e.g., stapler brand), and the scope of pre-operative tests and post-operative dietitian/psychological support packages. In Western European countries, especially major cities like Marseille, these costs are very high due to the high general cost of living. In Turkey, however, despite providing services at international standards, the costs are much more economical thanks to the favorable exchange rate advantage, making it accessible to many.
When Might Revision Surgery Be Necessary?
Revision surgery may be required if insufficient weight loss is achieved after the initial bariatric surgery, if a significant amount of weight is regained, or if severe medical complications (such as intractable reflux) arise. Although rarely necessary after a Gastric Sleeve, weight regain usually results from the relaxation of lifestyle rules. In such cases, surgeons may revise the sleeve gastrectomy or convert it to a different procedure, such as a gastric bypass, in a second operation. This decision must be made very carefully by an experienced and specialized surgeon after a thorough evaluation.
What Should Be Considered When Choosing a Bariatric Surgeon?
Selecting a bariatric surgeon is the most critical decision directly affecting the surgery’s success. The surgeon must specialize in bariatric surgery and have a high volume and experience, particularly with Sleeve Gastrectomy operations. It is essential to check whether the hospital and surgeon hold international accreditations (such as JCI). Furthermore, one should inquire whether the surgeon works with a multidisciplinary team that covers not only the operation but also the pre-operative preparation and long-term follow-up. Easy and transparent communication is also of great importance throughout the process.
Receiving Gastric Sleeve Treatment in Marseille
Marseille is a major port city in France and a center with high healthcare standards typical of Western Europe. Bariatric surgery in France is generally conducted within the framework of strictly enforced national health protocols. However, the biggest disadvantages of receiving treatment in Marseille are the high costs and long waiting times. If not covered by national insurance, the total cost of the surgery can be several times higher than an equivalent or more comprehensive package in Turkey, posing a significant barrier for many international patients seeking affordability.
Bariatric Surgery Standards in France
Bariatric surgery standards in France are high and generally subject to European Union (EU) regulations. Hospitals possess modern technology, and doctors are well-trained. However, the French healthcare system is primarily set up to serve local citizens and is not focused on international medical tourism. This means that as a foreign patient, you may face difficulty finding personalized patient coordination or all-inclusive treatment packages. Securing this highly tailored service in Marseille will require extra effort and expense, reducing convenience.
Accreditation Status of Hospitals in Marseille
Major public and private hospitals in Marseille are regularly inspected and accredited by the French health authorities (Haute Autorité de Santé – HAS). This signifies that they provide quality service. However, international accreditations like JCI (Joint Commission International), sought after by international patients, are not as common as they are in major health tourism centers in Turkey. While international accreditation signifies a global quality assurance for a foreign patient, verifying this detail can be challenging in a city like Marseille.
Gastric Sleeve Surgery Prices in Marseille
The cost of a Gastric Sleeve operation in Marseille, outside of insurance coverage, typically ranges between 15,000 Euro and 25,000 Euro. This price generally includes only the surgical intervention and a short hospital stay. Pre-operative consultations, tests, post-operative dietitian follow-up, and any complications are often excluded from this package. This high cost stems from the elevated personnel and operating expenses in Western Europe. Consequently, it is not a budget-friendly option for most international patients looking for value.
Difficulties in Finding an Expert Surgeon in France
High-calibre bariatric surgeons are certainly available in Marseille. However, reaching these surgeons and securing an appointment can require a long waiting period. Waiting lists in French public hospitals are extensive, and appointments in private practices are also expensive. Furthermore, the number of surgeons with international reputations who consistently work with foreign patients is not as high as in Turkey. This factor significantly complicates and delays the process of planning your treatment, which is critical for an urgent health issue like obesity.
Language Barrier and Communication Issues in Marseille
If you do not speak French, you may encounter serious language barriers when receiving treatment in Marseille. Even if hospital staff, nurses, and some doctors speak English, fully understanding critical medical details and post-operative care instructions can be difficult. This can lead to misunderstandings and stress, especially during a sensitive recovery period. In contrast, health tourism companies like Cure Holiday in Turkey offer 24/7 support in patients’ native languages, completely eliminating this barrier and ensuring smooth communication.
Appointment and Waiting Times in the French Health System
The French healthcare system is generally known for long appointment and waiting times, particularly for specialized surgical procedures. Reaching a bariatric surgeon in Marseille and scheduling a surgery date can take months or even over a year due to the necessary bureaucratic processes and insurance approvals. International patients typically find these long waiting times unacceptable, as obesity treatment is a health issue where time should not be wasted. In Turkey, this entire process can be planned much faster, thanks to the organization provided by Cure Holiday.
Post-Surgery Accommodation and Care Expenses in Marseille
Post-surgery accommodation and the costs of extra care you might need during the recovery period in Marseille are quite high. The city has a high cost of living; hotel accommodations, dining, and other basic needs require a significant budget. The fact that treatment packages usually do not cover these extra expenses further increases the total cost. Cure Holiday’s packages in Turkey, conversely, include luxury accommodation, transfers, and even guidance services in some cases, making costs transparent and predictable.
Ease/Difficulty of Travel and Visa Procedures
Travel to Marseille is easy for European Union (EU) citizens as it is within the Schengen area, but visa procedures for patients coming from other countries can be time-consuming and complex. Lengthy applications may be necessary at French consulates to obtain a medical visa. This adds an extra bureaucratic burden to an already stressful treatment process. Turkey offers more flexible and faster processes for health tourism visas, significantly simplifying travel planning with Cure Holiday.
Marseille’s Position in Terms of Bariatric Surgery Experience
While Marseille is strong in general medicine, it has not gained a reputation as a global “center” for bariatric surgery. Cities in Turkey, such as Istanbul, Izmir, or Antalya, on the other hand, have successfully performed thousands of obesity surgery cases globally and have become a worldwide reference point in this field. As an international patient, choosing a geography with the most experience and focus in this field is a logical and pragmatic approach to securing the best outcome.
Post-Treatment Follow-up Processes and Accessibility
If you have surgery at a hospital in Marseille, obtaining international follow-up service once you return home can be challenging. French doctors are often reluctant to provide remote follow-up for patients outside their system, which complicates the critical dietitian and medical surveillance services essential for your long-term success. Cure Holiday completely resolves this issue by offering remote consultation and follow-up support to patients treated in Turkey, even after they have returned to their home countries, ensuring continuous care.
Additional Tourism Opportunities and Cost in Marseille
Marseille is a beautiful Mediterranean city with attractive tourist sites you can visit before or after treatment. However, the cost of these tourist activities is quite high. Restaurants, museums, and excursions are much more expensive compared to equivalent activities in Turkey. For patients who want to keep their budget under control during the treatment process, the holiday and tourism opportunities in Marseille create an extra layer of luxury and cost. In Turkey, both treatment and vacation can be combined much more economically within a comprehensive package.
The Rising Success of Medical Tourism in Turkey
Turkey has experienced an incredible surge in the field of medical tourism over the last two decades, with Gastric Sleeve treatment at the center of this success. With its high-tech hospitals, international accreditations like JCI, and a high volume of cases handled by Western-trained surgeons, it has become a global center of attraction. Turkey offers the highest cost-effectiveness ratio, providing not only a price advantage but also standing out with its patient-focused service quality, making it a compelling alternative.
Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Turkey with Cure Holiday
Cure Holiday is a leading health tourism brand specializing in obesity surgery in Turkey, providing exclusive services to international patients. Our goal is to combine the highest medical standards with the comfort of a five-star hotel and zero bureaucracy, transforming our patients’ weight loss journey into the most comfortable experience possible. Choosing Cure Holiday provides you with not just surgery, but a complete package where every detail, from airport transfers to interpreter services, is meticulously taken care of, ensuring a smooth process.
The Advantageous Cost of Gastric Sleeve Treatment in Turkey
The cost of Gastric Sleeve treatment in Turkey is typically one-third or one-fourth of the price of an equivalent treatment in Marseille, which offers a significant financial benefit. This economic price difference results from the lower general living and operating costs in Turkey, and certainly does not imply any compromise in quality. Cure Holiday leverages this cost advantage to offer comprehensive packages that include surgery, hospital stay, accommodation, transfers, and post-operative follow-up services.
Why Should You Choose Cure Holiday?
There are multiple compelling reasons to choose Cure Holiday: Comprehensive packages, treatment in internationally accredited hospitals, easy access to some of the world’s most experienced bariatric surgeons, and personalized patient care. A dedicated interpreter and patient coordinator assigned specifically to you organize all procedures on your behalf throughout your treatment process, eliminating any communication issues. This holistic approach minimizes the stress of receiving treatment abroad and allows you to focus solely on your recovery.
Cure Holiday’s Expert Bariatric Surgeon Staff
Cure Holiday collaborates only with internationally certified surgeons who specialize in their field and have performed thousands of successful bariatric surgical operations. These surgeons are trained according to Western standards and utilize the most current laparoscopic techniques. Their high volume of cases continuously enhances their experience, which minimizes the risk of post-operative complications. The experience of our surgeons often surpasses that of many specialists you might find in Marseille.
International Quality Certificates of Hospitals in Turkey
The hospitals Cure Holiday collaborates with hold globally recognized accreditations, such as JCI (Joint Commission International). JCI is the gold standard that indicates a hospital provides the highest level of service in terms of patient safety, quality standards, and clinical management. These accreditations prove that healthcare services in Turkey are not only affordable but also internationally competitive and reliable. This provides a level of assurance that goes beyond the local accreditations available in Marseille.
Comprehensive Pre- and Post-Operative Care Packages at Cure Holiday
Cure Holiday packages cover not just the surgery but the entire treatment journey. All necessary pre-operative blood tests, consultations, and endoscopy are included. Post-operatively, dietitian and psychologist support, medications, and all required medical supplies are integrated into the package. This “turnkey” approach brings together services you would have to source separately from different providers in Marseille into a single comprehensive package, providing both cost savings and organizational ease.
Easy Communication Without Language Barriers: The Cure Holiday Difference
One of the biggest advantages for international patients coming to Turkey for treatment is the complete removal of the language barrier. Cure Holiday provides professional interpreters who offer 24/7 service in the patients’ native languages (English, German, French, Arabic, and more). This allows you to fully understand medical instructions, ask questions, and comfortably share all your concerns. This personalized communication directly improves the quality of your recovery process and reduces anxiety.
Short Waiting Times for Surgery in Turkey
Health tourism centers in Turkey are organized to ensure international patients can quickly access urgent and planned treatments. Unlike the long waiting lists in Marseille, it is possible to organize your treatment plan with Cure Holiday within a few weeks. Preventing the delay of the surgery is also medically important as it stops the further progression of obesity-related health risks. Cure Holiday efficiently plans the most suitable surgical date for you, respecting your time and health needs.
Accommodation and Transfer Facilities During Treatment
Cure Holiday typically includes accommodation in luxury hotels and all transfers between the airport and the hospital (with VIP vehicles) in its treatment packages. This eliminates the details you would have to organize yourself in Marseille, which would incur extra costs. You are provided with a high-comfort environment where you can feel relaxed and safe during your treatment, allowing you to focus on your recovery. This organized travel and accommodation arrangement simplifies the process immensely.
Spending the Recovery Period in the Comfort of a Holiday in Turkey
One of the most appealing aspects of receiving treatment in Turkey is the opportunity to spend the recovery period in a holiday setting rich in cultural and historical treasures. Cure Holiday offers accommodation options in the historical texture of Istanbul, on the sunny coasts of Antalya, or in the Aegean atmosphere of Izmir. Unlike the high-cost and intense environment of Marseille, you can experience a relaxing and culturally enriching recovery period in Turkey at a lower cost. The treatment seamlessly turns into a restorative break in your life.
Cure Holiday’s Long-Term Follow-up Support After Treatment
The success of Gastric Sleeve surgery depends on close follow-up during the first year after the operation. Cure Holiday provides remote dietitian and medical counselling services to its patients for at least one year, even after they have returned home. This continuous communication and support help patients adapt to their new diet plan and maintain their weight loss goals. This international follow-up support, which Marseille struggles to offer, is one of Cure Holiday’s strongest commitments to your long-term health.
Health Tourism and Cultural Experience in Turkey
Turkey is a country rich in history and culture. You can spend part of the time allotted for your treatment exploring Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys, the ancient ruins of Ephesus, or Istanbul’s magnificent mosques at much more affordable prices, unlike the high-cost experiences you might have in Marseille. Cure Holiday offers the opportunity to turn your medical treatment into an unforgettable cultural trip, allowing you to heal not just your body but also your soul.
More Experience in Turkey Compared to Marseille
Turkey offers a much richer experience with its geographical diversity and cultural depth, unlike the limited and expensive tourism opportunities offered by Marseille. It boasts many different atmospheres, from the unique beaches of the Aegean and Mediterranean to the mystical mountains of Eastern Anatolia. By extending your treatment period with Cure Holiday, you can spend your recovery process exploring different cities and experiences. This plays a significant role in alleviating the psychological burden of the treatment.
Cure Holiday: The Right Decision for Your Weight Loss Journey
In conclusion, Gastric Sleeve surgery is not just a surgical procedure but the first step toward a new life. While Marseille offers the high standards of Western Europe, it has serious disadvantages like long waiting times, high costs, and a lack of integrated packages for foreign patients. Turkey, with Cure Holiday, combines world-class medical expertise, JCI-accredited hospitals, personalized service, and an outstanding price-performance ratio in a single comfortable package. By choosing Cure Holiday for this life-changing journey, where every detail is considered, you secure both your health and your budget for the future.
