Gastric Sleeve Antalya, Turkey

Is Gastric Sleeve surgery in Antalya safe?

Yes, Gastric Sleeve surgery in Antalya is highly safe when performed by experienced, board-certified surgeons in accredited hospitals. Antalya has become a global center for bariatrics, meaning hospitals here are equipped with the latest technology and adhere to strict international safety protocols. Surgeons in Antalya typically perform a high volume of these surgeries, leading to exceptional proficiency. Additionally, reputable clinics perform rigorous pre-operative screenings, including blood tests, lung function tests, and cardiology clearances, to ensure you are a fit candidate for surgery. Post-operative care includes leak tests and 24/7 monitoring during your hospital stay to minimize any risks.

How much weight can I expect to lose after a Gastric Sleeve?

On average, patients who undergo Gastric Sleeve in Antalya lose between 60% and 70% of their excess body weight within the first 12 to 18 months. Weight loss is most rapid in the first six months. However, the Gastric Sleeve is a tool, not a magic fix. Your final result depends heavily on your commitment to the post-operative diet and lifestyle changes recommended by your medical team. Clinics in Antalya often provide a detailed nutritional plan to help you maximize your results. Many patients also find that the resolution of weight-related health issues, such as sleep apnea or joint pain, occurs very quickly after the initial weight loss.

What are the risks and complications of Gastric Sleeve?

As with any major surgery, there are risks, including infection, bleeding, or reactions to anesthesia. Specific to the Gastric Sleeve, the most serious but rare risk is a staple line leak. To prevent this, surgeons in Antalya perform multiple leak tests during and after the procedure. Other potential long-term complications include nutrient deficiencies or acid reflux. However, when compared to the long-term health risks of morbid obesity (heart disease, diabetes, etc.), the Gastric Sleeve is considered a low-risk procedure. Choosing a highly skilled surgeon and strictly following the post-op liquid-to-solid food progression significantly reduces the likelihood of complications.

What is the recovery time and when can I fly home?

Most patients stay in the hospital for 2 to 3 nights for monitoring and pain management. After discharge, you will stay in Antalya for another 3 to 5 days for a final check-up before being cleared to fly home. Generally, patients can return to light office work within 1 to 2 weeks and resume regular exercise within 4 to 6 weeks. The flight home is safe as long as you take precautions against blood clots, such as wearing compression stockings and walking in the cabin. Your surgeon in Antalya will provide a specific "fit to fly" certificate once they are satisfied with your initial healing progress.

Is the Gastric Sleeve reversible?

No, the Gastric Sleeve is a permanent and non-reversible procedure because a large portion of the stomach is physically removed from the body. However, if needed for medical reasons later in life, a Gastric Sleeve can be converted into a Gastric Bypass. Because it is permanent, it is vital that patients are psychologically prepared for the lifelong changes in eating habits that follow. Surgeons in Antalya often emphasize this during consultations to ensure patients have realistic expectations and a solid support system in place. The permanence is actually one of the procedure's benefits, as it provides a lifelong physical boundary to overeating.

What qualifications do Turkish bariatric surgeons have?

Surgeons in Antalya are highly qualified, having completed at least six years of medical school followed by specialized residency in general surgery and further fellowships in bariatric and metabolic surgery. Many are members of the International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO) and the Turkish Obesity Surgery Society. It is common for top Turkish surgeons to have trained or participated in exchange programs in Europe or the US. When researching, always verify that your surgeon is board-certified and ask about their specific complication rates and the total number of Gastric Sleeve procedures they have performed.

Why is it so much cheaper in Antalya than in the UK or US?

The lower cost in Antalya is not a reflection of lower medical quality. Instead, it is due to several economic factors, including lower costs of living, lower labor costs, and a favorable exchange rate for international patients. Furthermore, the Turkish government actively supports medical tourism, providing incentives for hospitals to maintain high international standards at competitive prices. Because Antalya hospitals treat a high volume of international patients, they can also negotiate better rates for medical supplies and technology. This allows them to offer all-inclusive packages that provide world-class care at a fraction of the price found in the West.

What does the post-op diet look like?

The post-op diet is a gradual progression designed to allow your new stomach to heal. For the first 2 weeks, you will be on a clear liquid diet. Weeks 3 and 4 involve pureed foods. By the second month, you move to soft foods, and eventually, you return to solid, high-protein meals in much smaller portions. Clinics in Antalya provide detailed nutrition guides and often offer remote access to a dietitian for the first year. The key is to prioritize protein and hydration while avoiding carbonated drinks and high-sugar foods that could lead to "dumping syndrome" or weight regain.

Will I need plastic surgery for loose skin later?

Loose skin is a possibility after any significant weight loss. Factors such as your age, starting weight, genetics, and how much you exercise play a role. Some patients find that their skin retracts well, while others may eventually choose "body contouring" or skin removal surgery after their weight has stabilized (usually 18-24 months post-sleeve). Many patients find that the health benefits and improved mobility far outweigh the concerns about loose skin. Interestingly, Antalya is also a global leader in plastic surgery, so many patients return to the same city later for their contouring procedures once they have reached their target weight.

How do I start the process for surgery in Antalya?

Starting the process is straightforward with PlacidWay. You begin by submitting an inquiry with your current weight, height, and medical history. We help you obtain a medical assessment from surgeons in Antalya. Once you are cleared for surgery, you can choose a package and schedule your dates. You will need a valid passport, and depending on your nationality, a simple e-visa for Turkey. Most clinics in Antalya handle all the logistics once you land, including transfers and hospital coordination, so you can focus entirely on your health and transformation. It is recommended to start the inquiry at least 4-6 weeks before your desired surgery date.

Bariatric & Metabolic Surgeons

Focused on Long-Term Health Outcomes

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Minimally Invasive Specialists

• • Provider Vetting: We pre-screen hospitals in Antalya to verify their certifications, surgeon credentials, and clinical safety records.
• • Direct Specialist Access: We help arrange initial consultations with bariatric surgeons so you can ask specific medical questions before you travel.
• • Cost Transparency: We provide detailed, itemized quotes from multiple clinics, ensuring you understand every inclusion in your package.
• • Appointment Coordination: Our team handles the scheduling of your surgery, pre-op tests, and post-op check-ups for a seamless timeline.
• • Patient Advocacy: We are with you from inquiry to recovery, serving as your point of contact for any questions or logistical needs.
• • Genuine Reviews: We provide access to verified patient feedback and before-and-after stories to help you make a data-driven choice.