Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Gastric sleeve surgery, also called sleeve gastrectomy, is a type of weight loss surgery that removes a large part of the stomach, leaving behind a tube-shaped, smaller portion. It reduces the stomach’s capacity and limits the amount of food that can be eaten at one meal, which in turn decreases calorie intake and supports weight loss.
Clinichub brings together international patients seeking answers to questions such as “What is gastric sleeve surgery?”, the suitability for the surgery, and how much weight loss is possible, with highly trained and skilled surgeons specialising in weight loss surgery.
Who Qualifies for Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
The requirements for gastric sleeve surgery primarily include diagnosis of class III obesity, also known as morbid obesity (BMI of 40 or higher, or BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health problems).
Most patients have already tried to lose weight through diet and exercise but were unable to achieve long-term success.
BMI Requirements
The main criterion for gastric sleeve surgery is having a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher. In some cases, the procedure may also be performed on individuals with a BMI of 35 or above with obesity-related health problems.
Health Conditions and Comorbidities
Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, insulin resistance, high cholesterol, arterial disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, or joint problems related to obesity may increase the medical necessity of gastric sleeve surgery. Sleeve gastrectomy can improve metabolic health in addition to weight loss, especially in patients with a BMI of 35 or higher.
Medical Evaluation and Testing
A comprehensive, multidisciplinary medical evaluation is performed before gastric sleeve surgery. Blood tests, metabolic and hormonal evaluations, and nutritional histories are assessed. Comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and sleep apnea are reviewed in detail.
Pre-Op Diet Requirements
Following a special diet programme for gastric sleeve surgery before and after is important for minimizing the risk of complications. Two weeks before the operation, it is recommended to increase protein intake, reduce carbohydrate consumption, and eliminate sugar from the diet completely. Two days before the operation, the patient should follow a clear liquid diet of caffeine-free, sugar-free, and preservative-free fluids only.
Post-Surgery Diet Guide
The diet following gastric sleeve surgery is planned in stages by experienced dietitians. A clear liquid diet is recommended for the first week. In the second week, patients transition to a full liquid diet. Pureed and soft foods are added to the diet in the third week. From the fourth week, solid foods are gradually and carefully reintroduced. Sugary, carbonated, and high-fat foods are not recommended.
Week 1-2: Clear and Full Liquids
During the first week, a clear liquid diet should be observed. Water, sugar-free herbal teas, clear meat broth, and sugar-free, pulp-free liquids are recommended. Sugary, carbonated, and caffeinated beverages should be restricted.
In the second week, patients transition to a full liquid diet. Sugar-free protein shakes, fat-free and strained soups, sugar-free milk, yogurt, and pudding can be consumed. Solid foods are still avoided.
Week 3-4: Pureed and Soft Foods
Pureed foods are added from the third week. Pureed fish, well-cooked and mashed vegetables, soft eggs, cottage cheese, avocado puree, and low-fat yogurt are suitable options. Slow eating is important.
In the fourth week, soft solid foods are gradually added to the diet. Well-cooked chicken and fish, soft vegetables, fruit, and low-fat cheese can be consumed.
Long-Term Nutrition Guidelines
In the long term, protein-rich, low-sugar, and low-fat foods are recommended. Grilled or boiled chicken and fish, well-cooked vegetables, fruit and low-fat dairy products should form the basis of the diet.
Period |
Diet |
Foods |
|
Week 1 |
Clear Liquid Diet |
Water, sugar-free teas, clear chicken or meat broth |
|
Week 2 |
Full Liquid Diet |
Sugar-free protein shakes, fat-free and strained soups, sugar-free milk, yogurt, and pudding |
|
Week 3 |
Pureed Diet |
Pureed fish, well-cooked and mashed vegetables, soft eggs, cheese, avocado puree, and low-fat yogurt |
|
Week 4 |
Soft solid foods |
Well-cooked chicken and fish, soft vegetables, fruit, and low-fat cheese |
Gastric Sleeve Surgery Cost Comparison
The cost of gastric sleeve surgery can differ significantly from one country to another. Healthcare services, hospital infrastructure, and accreditation by international organisations, the training and experience of surgeons and medical staff, and postoperative care services significantly impact the total cost. Costs may also differ depending on whether the procedure is a primary gastric sleeve operation or gastric sleeve revision surgery, because revision procedures often require more complex planning and surgical expertise.
Costs by Country
The cost of gastric sleeve surgery varies from country to country. In some countries, the cost may cover only the surgical procedure itself, whereas in others, it may also include preoperative evaluations and follow-up care. Therefore, cost comparisons should not only cover the surgery itself, but also the full scope of services.
Why is Turkey Affordable?
Compared to many Western countries, the overall cost of living is lower, and incentives from the government to support medical tourism help to reduce operating costs for hospitals and clinics. This naturally reduces the cost per patient, helping to make the gastric sleeve surgery cost in Turkey more accessible while continuing to meet high medical standards.
Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Turkey
Turkey has become one of the leading destinations for gastric sleeve surgery thanks to its advanced healthcare infrastructure, highly trained surgeons, and internationally accredited hospitals. From the initial consultation to post-surgery follow-up and accommodation, the entire process is managed in a well-planned and patient-safe manner.
All-Inclusive Packages
ClinicHub’s all-inclusive gastric sleeve surgery Turkey packages are designed to simplify and organise the process for international patients, from the initial free consultation and personalised treatment planning to accredited hospital surgery and structured postoperative follow-up. ClinicHub reduces the need for patients to handle logistical details on their own by managing accommodation and care coordination within a single, well-planned system.
Experienced Surgeons and Accredited Hospitals
ClinicHub collaborates with internationally trained and experienced best gastric sleeve surgery surgeons in Turkey and accredited hospitals equipped with advanced medical technology. The expert teams use the latest surgical techniques for weight loss procedures. They prioritise patient safety and long-term outcomes. Thanks to modern operating rooms, multidisciplinary medical teams and high hygiene standards, surgical processes are carried out in a safe, controlled and patient-centred way.
Post-Operative Support and Follow-Up Care
The post-operative period is as important as the surgical procedure. For this reason, ClinicHub doctors closely observe patients immediately after surgery, until the effects of anaesthesia subside, and throughout their hospital stay. Even after patients return to their hotels, experienced doctors and nurses provide 24/7 postoperative care and guidance.
2-Year Nutritionist Support Program
As part of the 2-Year Nutritionist Support Programme, patients are supported to promote sustainable weight loss after surgery and prevent nutritional deficiencies. Nutrition plans are regularly updated within the evaluation of the pros and cons of gastric sleeve surgery, with ongoing monitoring of protein intake, vitamin and mineral balance, and portion control.
Regular Follow-Up Appointments
Regular follow-up appointments are important for assessing whether recovery is progressing as planned. During these visits, your weight, muscle mass, vitamin and mineral levels, general health, and the outcome of the gastric sleeve surgery in Turkey are evaluated in detail.
24/7 Medical Consultation
After gastric sleeve surgery, patients are closely monitored in the hospital until the anesthesia has completely worn off. During this period, their vital signs, fluid intake, and possible gastric sleeve surgery side effects are regularly checked. Patients are observed in the hospital for one night or several nights if necessary. After being discharged, ClinicHub’s 24/7 postoperative care and follow-up support continue uninterrupted until patients return home.
Personalized Diet Plan Adjustments
Each patient’s body structure, metabolism, daily lifestyle habits, activity level, and muscle mass are different. Nutrition plans are therefore updated regularly according to each patient’s specific needs. For example, in some patients, additional protein may be included to prevent muscle loss.
