How Much Weight Can Patients Expect to Lose After Sleeve Gastrectomy in Turkey?

Most effective Sleeve Gastrectomy in Turkey

If you have been struggling with obesity and diet after diet hasn't worked, you might be looking at weight loss surgery as a real solution. One of the biggest questions on your mind is likely: How much weight can I actually expect to lose? It is the most common question patients ask when considering travelling abroad for this procedure. In short, most patients lose about 60-70% of their excess weight within a year and a half, but the journey starts much faster than that.

Turkey has become a global hub for bariatric surgery, not just because of the affordable prices, but because of the high success rates and experienced surgeons. In this guide, we will break down exactly what the weight loss timeline looks like, answer your most pressing questions about the process, and help you understand what to expect from sleeve gastrectomy in Turkey.

What is the average weight loss 3 months after gastric sleeve?

The first few months after surgery are often called the "honeymoon phase" because the weight comes off very quickly. During this period, your body is recovering, and your calorie intake is significantly lower due to the post-op diet. Most people see a dramatic drop on the scale.

For example, if you have 100 pounds (45 kg) of excess weight to lose, you might lose around 25 to 35 pounds (11-15 kg) in just the first 90 days. This rapid change is motivating, but it is important to stay hydrated and follow your nutritionist's advice to ensure you are losing fat, not muscle.

How much weight will I lose after 1 year?

By the time you reach your one-year "surgiversary," the results are usually life-changing. Gastric sleeve results at this stage often show a massive reduction in body mass index (BMI) and the resolution of obesity-related conditions like sleep apnea or high blood pressure.

It is important to remember that weight loss slows down as you get closer to your goal. While the first few months are fast, months 6 through 12 are about steady, consistent progress. Staying active and sticking to high-protein meals are key to hitting that 70% mark.

What is the cost of sleeve gastrectomy in Turkey compared to the UK and USA?

One of the main reasons patients travel is the significant cost difference. In countries like the USA or UK, bariatric surgery is expensive and often not covered by insurance unless you meet very strict criteria. Turkey offers high-quality medical care at a fraction of the price due to lower labor costs and government support for medical tourism.

Below is a comparison table to give you a clear idea of the savings:

Country	Average Cost (USD)	What is Included?
Turkey	$2,500 – $4,000	Surgery, Hotel, Transfers, Tests, Meds
United Kingdom	$13,000 – $16,000	Surgery & Hospital Stay Only
USA	$15,000 – $25,000	Surgery Only (often hidden fees)
Ireland	$12,000 – $15,000	Surgery Only

Most packages in Turkey are "all-inclusive," meaning you don't have to worry about booking a hotel or finding a taxi from the airport. It is all handled for you.

Am I eligible for gastric sleeve in Turkey?

Doctors in Turkey follow international guidelines for bariatric surgery eligibility. The primary factor is your Body Mass Index (BMI).

• BMI 40+: You are eligible regardless of other health conditions.
• BMI 35-39.9: You are eligible if you have a comorbidity, such as type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, or high blood pressure.
• BMI 30-34.9: Some clinics may consider you if you have poorly controlled type 2 diabetes, but this is evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Before you fly, you will typically send a medical history form to the surgeon to confirm your eligibility.

What is the monthly weight loss timeline?

Understanding the timeline helps manage expectations. Here is a general breakdown of what patients experience:

• Month 1: Rapid loss, often 10-15% of total body weight. Much of this is water weight and initial fat loss.
• Month 3: You may have lost about 30-35% of your excess weight. Energy levels start to return.
• Month 6: You are halfway there! Expect about 50% of your excess weight to be gone.
• Month 12: You are nearing the finish line with 60-70% excess weight loss.
• Month 18: Maintenance phase begins.

Will I regain weight after gastric sleeve surgery?

Surgery is a tool, not a magic wand. While the gastric sleeve physically restricts how much food you can eat, it is possible to "cheat" the surgery by grazing on high-calorie soft foods like ice cream or milkshakes. This is often why some patients see weight creep back on after 2-3 years.

However, the majority of patients maintain a significant weight loss 5 to 10 years later. Success depends on using the first "honeymoon" year to build solid habits that stick for life.

How long is the recovery time in Turkey?

Recovery is relatively quick because the procedure is performed laparoscopically (keyhole surgery). You will likely be up and walking a few hours after surgery to prevent blood clots.

Most patients take 2 to 3 weeks off work. If you have a physically demanding job, you might need 4 to 6 weeks. While you are in Turkey, the medical team will monitor you for any immediate complications before you are allowed to fly back.

What does the diet look like after surgery?

You cannot eat a steak immediately after surgery! Your stomach needs time to heal. The diet is strict and broken into phases:

• Week 1-2 (Liquids): Water, broth, protein shakes, and sugar-free jelly.
• Week 3-4 (Purees): Mashed potatoes, yogurt, blended soups.
• Week 5-6 (Soft Foods): Scrambled eggs, soft fish, cooked vegetables.
• Week 7+ (Solids): Return to normal textures, focusing on protein first.

Is gastric sleeve surgery in Turkey safe?

Turkey is a world leader in medical tourism. Many hospitals are accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI), which is the gold standard for global healthcare. Because surgeons in Turkey perform hundreds of these procedures a year, their expertise is often very high.

That said, all surgeries carry risk. Complications like staple line leakage happen in about 1% of cases globally. Choosing a reputable clinic and following pre-op instructions lowers this risk significantly.

Will I have loose skin after weight loss surgery?

When you lose 100 pounds quickly, your skin may not snap back completely. This is a natural side effect of massive weight loss. Factors like your age, genetics, and how much weight you lose play a role.

Some patients choose to have body contouring surgery (like a tummy tuck) 18 to 24 months after their bariatric procedure, once their weight has stabilized. Many clinics in Turkey also offer these plastic surgery packages.

Can I get pregnant after gastric sleeve?

Obesity often causes fertility issues, so many women find it easier to get pregnant after losing weight. However, rapid weight loss can affect the nutrients available for a growing baby.

Surgeons strongly advise waiting until your weight has stabilized (usually 1.5 years) to ensure both you and the baby are healthy and safe.

Does hair loss occur after gastric sleeve?

It can be scary to see hair in the shower drain, but do not panic. This is a temporary reaction to the physical stress your body is under. It is not permanent baldness.

Your hair will grow back once your weight stabilizes. Taking your recommended bariatric vitamins and getting enough protein is the best way to minimize this side effect.

How does gastric sleeve affect diabetes?

The surgery affects hormones in your gut that control blood sugar. Many patients see their blood sugar levels normalize even before they lose a significant amount of weight. It is one of the most powerful benefits of the surgery beyond just the cosmetic changes.

Why is weight loss surgery cheaper in Turkey?

A common misconception is that "cheaper means worse quality." In reality, the cost of medical labor, rent, and administration in Turkey is much lower than in the US or Europe. The exchange rate also favors patients paying in Dollars, Pounds, or Euros, allowing clinics to offer premium services at budget prices.

How to choose the right clinic in Turkey?

Not all clinics are created equal. When researching, look for transparency. Do they show before-and-after photos? Can you speak to a past patient? Do they have a clear plan for follow-up care once you return home?

Taking the time to choose the right provider ensures that your weight loss journey is safe, successful, and supported every step of the way.