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Diabetes surgery in Turkey

Diabetes surgery, also known as metabolic surgery, is a treatment option for people with type 2 diabetes, often carried out alongside weight-loss surgery. This guide covers what it involves, who it may suit, and what to expect for recovery.

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Medically reviewed by Assoc. Prof. Muhammed Zübeyr Üçüncü. Written by Kubilay Aydeger.
Updated 9 September 2026 · Editorial standards

Diabetes surgery in Turkey at a glance

starting price, 13 June 2025from €2,700Treatment only
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Figures are ranges, not promises. Suitability needs an individual assessment by a doctor.

Diabetes surgery clinics in Turkey

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Patient stories

Patients treated through Flymedi, in their own words. Nothing loads or plays until you press play.

Louren

Gastric sleeve

Spoken in EnglishSource: YouTube

Jacqueline Davies

Gastric sleeve

Spoken in EnglishSource: YouTube

Deborah McElroy

Gastric bypass surgery

Spoken in EnglishSource: YouTube

Noel

Gastric sleeve

Spoken in EnglishSource: YouTube

Kimberley Pattern

Gastric sleeve

Spoken in EnglishSource: YouTube

Imre Fulop

Gastric bypass surgery

Spoken in EnglishSource: YouTube

Pam Gibson

Gastric sleeve

Spoken in EnglishSource: YouTube

Lee

Gastric sleeve

Spoken in EnglishSource: YouTube

Alex

Septoplasty

Spoken in EnglishSource: YouTube

Laura

Dental implants

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Reviews on Trustpilot

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Why are these clinics ranked this way?

Clinics are scored from patient reviews and ordered by Flymedi. The facts behind each position are listed below. How ranking works.

RankClinicFlymediScoreLead doctorExperienceFromWhy it is ranked here
1Luna Clinic Turkey9.4İbrahim Karataş11 years€2,700Treatment onlyMost reviewed on this page (888 reviews). Lowest listed price on this page. Declares TURSAB, MOH, ESCAD, TTB. 32 doctors listed.
2Istanbul European Clinic9.3Bariatric surgery11 years€2,800Treatment onlyDeclares TURSAB, MOH, ASAPS, ESCAD, ESHRS, ISAPS, TTB. 24 doctors listed.
3Memorial Sisli Hospital9.14 doctorsNot listed€3,700Treatment onlyDeclares JCI, EFI, ISO 9001:2000, TTB. 4 doctors listed.
4Medipol Mega University Hospital9.44 doctorsNot listed€4,000Treatment onlyDeclares JCI. 4 doctors listed.
5Acibadem Healthcare Group9.54 doctorsNot listedPrice on request4 doctors listed.
6Medical Park Gaziosmanpasa Hospital9.74 doctorsNot listed€3,250Treatment onlyHighest FlymediScore on this page. Declares JCI, CEN, EMBT, ISCT, CIBMTR. 4 doctors listed.
7Ethica Incirli Hospital9.14 doctorsNot listedPrice on requestDeclares TTB. 4 doctors listed.
8Liv Hospital9.46 doctorsNot listed€4,300Treatment onlyDeclares ASAPS, ISO 14001, ISO 9001:2015, JCI, TÜV SÜD. 6 doctors listed.
9Acibadem Bodrum Hospital9.54 doctorsNot listedPrice on requestDeclares JCI, ISO 9001:2008. 4 doctors listed.
10Koç Healthcare Institutions9.64 doctorsNot listedPrice on requestDeclares JCI. 4 doctors listed.
1Luna Clinic Turkey · 9.4
From €2,700 Treatment only Most reviewed on this page (888 reviews). Lowest listed price on this page. Declares TURSAB, MOH, ESCAD, TTB. 32 doctors listed.
2Istanbul European Clinic · 9.3
From €2,800 Treatment only Declares TURSAB, MOH, ASAPS, ESCAD, ESHRS, ISAPS, TTB. 24 doctors listed.
3Memorial Sisli Hospital · 9.1
From €3,700 Treatment only Declares JCI, EFI, ISO 9001:2000, TTB. 4 doctors listed.
4Medipol Mega University Hospital · 9.4
From €4,000 Treatment only Declares JCI. 4 doctors listed.
5Acibadem Healthcare Group · 9.5
4 doctors listed.
6Medical Park Gaziosmanpasa Hospital · 9.7
From €3,250 Treatment only Highest FlymediScore on this page. Declares JCI, CEN, EMBT, ISCT, CIBMTR. 4 doctors listed.
7Ethica Incirli Hospital · 9.1
Declares TTB. 4 doctors listed.
8Liv Hospital · 9.4
From €4,300 Treatment only Declares ASAPS, ISO 14001, ISO 9001:2015, JCI, TÜV SÜD. 6 doctors listed.
9Acibadem Bodrum Hospital · 9.5
Declares JCI, ISO 9001:2008. 4 doctors listed.
10Koç Healthcare Institutions · 9.6
Declares JCI. 4 doctors listed.

Read our full clinic ranking policy

In this article

  1. Diabetes surgery in Turkey
  2. What is diabetes surgery?
  3. Types of diabetes surgery
  4. How the treatment works
  5. Who diabetes surgery suits
  6. Who should think twice about diabetes surgery
  7. Diabetes and weight-related outcomes
  8. Advantages of diabetes surgery

Diabetes surgery in Turkey

What is diabetes surgery?

Diabetes surgery, also called metabolic surgery, adjusts the digestive system to support weight loss and help manage type 2 diabetes. It's generally considered for people whose diabetes hasn't been well controlled through medication, diet, and lifestyle changes alone.

The most common procedures are gastric sleeve and gastric bypass, both of which can affect hormones involved in blood sugar regulation as well as reducing the amount of food the stomach can hold.

Types of diabetes surgery

There are several surgical approaches used for diabetes management, and your surgeon will recommend one based on your individual health profile.

Gastric sleeve

The surgeon removes part of the stomach, creating a smaller, tube-shaped stomach. This reduces the amount of food you can eat at one time and can affect hormones linked to blood sugar control.

Gastric bypass

The surgeon creates a small stomach pouch and reroutes part of the small intestine to connect to it. This reduces both the amount of food you can eat and the number of calories your body absorbs.

Duodenal switch

A duodenal switch combines a sleeve gastrectomy with a more significant rerouting of the intestines. It's a more complex procedure, typically considered for specific cases after discussion with your surgeon.

Your surgeon will discuss which option is most appropriate based on your health history, weight, and diabetes management needs.

How the treatment works

Diabetes surgery involves several stages, from initial consultation through to recovery.

Consultation

The process usually starts with an online consultation, where a specialist reviews your medical history, current medications, and diabetes management, to check whether surgery may be appropriate for you.

Planning your trip and choosing a clinic

Once you decide to go ahead, you'll be offered clinic and surgeon options based on your preferred dates and any specific requirements.

Pre-surgery medical assessment

Before surgery, you'll have a medical assessment, which may include blood tests and other checks, to confirm you're fit for the procedure and to plan your care.

Surgery day

Diabetes surgery is carried out under general anaesthesia. Your surgical team will talk you through what to expect immediately before and after the procedure.

Hospital stay and early recovery

After surgery, you'll be monitored in hospital before being discharged with guidance on diet, activity, and follow-up care.

Who diabetes surgery suits

You may be considered a candidate for diabetes surgery:

  • If you have type 2 diabetes alongside a body weight in the range associated with severe obesity.
  • If you have obesity-related health conditions in addition to diabetes.
  • If you haven't achieved sustained improvement through medication, diet, and lifestyle changes alone.
  • If you're able to commit to the follow-up care and lifestyle changes needed after surgery.

Who should think twice about diabetes surgery

Diabetes surgery isn't right for everyone. Your care team may recommend an alternative approach if:

  • Your diabetes is well managed through medication, diet, and lifestyle changes.
  • You have a health condition that makes major surgery higher risk, which your doctor would assess individually.
  • You're not able to commit to the long-term follow-up and dietary changes surgery requires.
  • You haven't yet explored non-surgical options with your doctor.

Advantages of diabetes surgery

Improved blood sugar control

For some patients, diabetes surgery leads to better blood sugar control, sometimes alongside a reduced need for diabetes medication. Your care team will discuss what outcomes are realistic for your specific case.

Support for sustained weight loss

Diabetes surgery can support longer-term weight loss compared with diet and lifestyle changes alone, particularly when combined with ongoing follow-up care.

Potential improvement in related health conditions

Some patients also see improvements in other obesity-related conditions, such as high blood pressure or sleep apnoea, though outcomes vary and should be discussed individually with your doctor.

Diabetes surgery compared to non-surgical treatment

Diabetes is often managed first through medication, diet, and lifestyle changes. Surgery is generally considered when these approaches haven't achieved sustained results, or alongside them as part of a wider treatment plan. Non-surgical management avoids the risks of a major operation but may take longer to show results and doesn't work for everyone. Your doctor can help you weigh the benefits and risks of each approach for your situation.

Possible risks and side effects

  • Acid reflux
  • Anaesthesia-related risks
  • Chronic nausea and vomiting
  • Dilation of the oesophagus
  • Inability to eat certain foods
  • Infection
  • Stomach obstruction
  • Weight regain

Recovery after treatment

Recovery time varies by procedure and individual. Most patients stay in hospital for a short period after surgery and gradually resume normal activities over the following weeks, guided by their surgical team. Following the nutrition plan provided by your care team supports a smoother recovery.

Caring for yourself after surgery

Long-term success after diabetes surgery depends on ongoing lifestyle changes alongside medical follow-up.

  • Follow the eating plan provided by your care team, which usually progresses gradually from liquids to solid food.
  • Attend follow-up appointments so your team can monitor your recovery, nutrition, and blood sugar control.
  • Keep taking any medication as advised by your doctor; don't stop or adjust diabetes medication without medical guidance.
  • Build regular physical activity into your routine once your surgical team confirms it's safe to do so.
  • Watch for signs that need medical attention, such as persistent pain, vomiting, or difficulty eating, and contact your care team if these occur.

How to choose a trustworthy clinic

Choosing where to have surgery is one of the most important decisions in the process. Look for:

  • Surgeons with documented experience in diabetes and metabolic surgery specifically.
  • Clinics accredited by a recognised body, such as the Joint Commission International or ISO.
  • A clinic that offers a thorough consultation and answers your questions before you commit to travel.
  • Clear information about aftercare and who to contact if you have concerns once you're home.

Questions to ask your surgeon before treatment

Coming prepared with questions helps you feel confident about your treatment plan.

  • Which procedure do you recommend for me, and why?
  • What results are realistic for someone in my situation?
  • What does aftercare involve, and who do I contact if I have concerns once I'm home?
  • What happens if I experience complications after I've returned home?
  • Is a translator available if I don't speak the local language?

Next steps if you're considering treatment

  • Verify the surgeon's experience: ask about their training, fellowships, and how often they perform this procedure.
  • Schedule a consultation: most clinics that work with international patients offer this online.
  • Research the clinic: look at accreditation and patient reviews, and speak to past patients if possible.
  • Ask about follow-up care: understand what aftercare and support look like once you're home.
  • Plan your trip and recovery time: give yourself enough time to rest after treatment before travelling home.

How to reduce the cost of treatment

Treatment abroad can often be more accessible when you plan ahead. A few things worth considering:

  • Ask what's included in your package, such as consultations, hospital stay, and follow-up care, so you can compare offers on a like-for-like basis.
  • Consider travelling outside peak holiday periods, when flights and accommodation may be more flexible.
  • Ask your clinic which procedure type is being quoted, since this affects price.
  • Discuss payment options directly with your clinic during consultation.

Diabetes surgery quick facts

ProcedureDiabetes surgery (metabolic surgery)
AnaesthesiaGeneral anaesthesia
Side effectsNausea, vomiting, acid reflux
RisksInfection, stomach obstruction, weight regain
Related proceduresGastric sleeve, gastric bypass

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Real results: before and after

Photos supplied by the clinics that performed the treatment, with patient consent. Each photo is credited to its clinic.

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Frequently asked questions

Answers from the medical content team, reviewed by the medical reviewer named on this page.

What is diabetes surgery?
Diabetes surgery, also called metabolic surgery, is a type of weight-loss surgery that can also help improve blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes.
Can diabetes surgery cure diabetes?
Diabetes surgery is not a guaranteed cure. Some patients see significant improvement in blood sugar control and may need less medication, but outcomes vary and should be discussed with your care team.
Does this surgery also help with type 1 diabetes?
This page refers to metabolic surgery for type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes has a different underlying cause and is managed differently. Speak with an endocrinologist about the options suited to you.
Which type of surgery is used for diabetes?
Common options include gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and duodenal switch. Your surgeon will recommend an approach based on your individual health profile.
Am I a candidate for diabetes surgery?
Candidacy usually depends on factors such as body weight and whether you have type 2 diabetes or other obesity-related conditions. Your care team will assess your individual case.
Will I need to stop taking diabetes medication after surgery?
Some patients are able to reduce or stop certain medications after surgery, but this depends on the individual and should only be adjusted under medical supervision.
What is the difference between gastric sleeve and gastric bypass?
A gastric sleeve reduces the size of the stomach, while a gastric bypass reroutes part of the digestive system. Both can support weight loss and blood sugar management, and your surgeon will advise which suits you.
What is a duodenal switch?
A duodenal switch is a more complex procedure that combines a sleeve gastrectomy with rerouting of the intestines. It's typically considered for specific cases.
Is diabetes surgery safe?
As with any major surgery, diabetes surgery carries risks. Your surgical team will talk through the specific risks and how they apply to your situation during consultation.
What are the risks of diabetes surgery?
Risks can include infection, anaesthesia-related complications, nausea and vomiting, and changes to how you tolerate certain foods. Your surgeon will discuss these in detail before treatment.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery time varies by individual and by procedure type. Most patients stay in hospital for a few days and gradually resume normal activities over the following weeks, guided by their care team.
What can I eat after diabetes surgery?
Your care team will provide a structured eating plan that usually starts with liquids and soft foods before gradually reintroducing solid food.
Will I regain weight after diabetes surgery?
Weight regain is possible over time, particularly without ongoing lifestyle changes. Long-term success is generally supported by follow-up care, diet, and activity.
Do I need general anaesthesia for diabetes surgery?
Yes, diabetes surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia.
Is diabetes surgery reversible?
Some procedures, such as gastric bypass, can sometimes be reversed or revised, while others are less easily reversed. Discuss this with your surgeon before deciding on a procedure.
How much does diabetes surgery cost?
Cost depends on factors such as the procedure type, clinic, and surgeon's experience. See the price summary on this page for current package pricing.
Do I need a consultation before booking surgery?
Yes. A consultation lets your care team assess whether you're a suitable candidate and discuss the right procedure for you.
Can diabetes surgery help with other health conditions?
For some patients, diabetes surgery is associated with improvements in other obesity-related conditions, though outcomes vary and should be discussed individually with your doctor.
How many follow-up visits will I need?
Follow-up care typically continues for some time after surgery to monitor recovery, nutrition, and blood sugar control; your clinic will outline a schedule tailored to your case.
Can I travel home soon after diabetes surgery?
Your surgical team will advise when it's safe to travel based on your individual recovery.
What happens if I have complications after I've returned home?
Contact your clinic's aftercare team as soon as possible. Reputable clinics provide guidance for managing concerns remotely and coordinating local care if needed.
Does insurance cover diabetes surgery abroad?
Coverage varies by insurer and policy. Check directly with your provider before booking.
Is diabetes surgery only for people who are overweight?
It's generally considered for people with obesity-related type 2 diabetes. Your care team can advise whether it's appropriate for your specific situation.
Can diabetes surgery be combined with weight-loss surgery?
Yes, diabetes surgery often uses the same procedures as weight-loss surgery, since managing weight and blood sugar are closely linked.
Will I need to take vitamins or supplements after surgery?
Many patients need vitamin and mineral supplements after diabetes surgery, since the procedure can affect how your body absorbs nutrients. Your care team will advise what's needed for your situation.
How is diabetes surgery different from weight-loss surgery?
They often use the same procedures. The main difference is the primary goal, whether that's managing diabetes, losing weight, or both together.
What happens if I'm not a suitable candidate?
Your care team will explain why and discuss alternative options for managing your diabetes.
Can I have diabetes surgery if I'm on insulin?
Being on insulin doesn't automatically rule out diabetes surgery, but your care team will assess your individual case.
Do I need to lose weight before surgery?
Some clinics ask patients to follow a pre-surgery diet to help reduce risk during the procedure. Your surgical team will advise if this applies to you.

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About this page

Written by Kubilay Aydeger, Expert Medical Content Writer at Flymedi. Medically reviewed by Assoc. Prof. Muhammed Zübeyr Üçüncü. Content updated 9 September 2026. Next scheduled review 9 September 2027.

This page is general information, not personal medical advice. It does not diagnose you and it does not replace an individual assessment by a doctor who has examined you.

Found something wrong or out of date on this page? Tell us and we will check it. Editorial standards and reviewer list: authors and reviewers.

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