Diabetes Surgery

By Abdulaziz Ali - Medically reviewed by Prof. Cuneyt Kayaalp, on Sep 15, 2024

Diabetes Surgery Recovery Time

Laparoscopic diabetes surgery has a short recovery time. You may remain in the hospital for two to three days, and you can return to normal activities in three to five weeks.

If the surgery involves a larger incision, your healing process will likely take longer. Follow the nutrition guidelines given to you by the nutritionist to ensure a faster recovery time. 

How is Diabetes Surgery Performed?

Diabetes surgery can take two different approaches. The initial one is a gastric sleeve, and the second is a gastric bypass. 

Gastric sleeve: The surgeon removes part of your stomach and creates a new tube-shaped stomach or "sleeve." The procedure reduces the size of your stomach and restricts the amount of food you can eat at one time. 

Gastric bypass: The surgeon makes a small pouch that bypasses the stomach and attaches it to the other end of your small intestine. The procedure results in reducing the number of calories your body will absorb. 

Cosmetic Procedures Related To Weight Loss Surgery 

Some patients preferer to have other cosmetic procedures after massive weight loss; these complementary procedures include:

• Thigh lift
• Lower body lift
• Breast lift
• Arm lift
• Facelift 

Possible Complications After Metabolic Surgery

All surgical procedures carry some risks and side effects. The risks associated with diabetes surgery include: 

• Acid reflux

• Anesthesia-related risks

• Chronic nausea and vomiting 

• Dilation of esophagus

• Inability to eat certain foods

• Infection

• Obstruction of stomach 

• Weight gain or failure to lose weight

Weight Loss Surgery Results

Diabetes surgery or Metabolic Surgery is the most effective diabetes treatment and may result in stopping medications. Nearly 78 percent of patients who undergo the surgery experience lower blood levels, take fewer diabetes medications, and see an improvement in diabetes-related health issues. 

How To Prepare For Diabetes Surgery?

• A week before the procedure, you should stop taking Aspirin and any other medication that causes blood thinning.
• If you are allergic to drugs, you should inform your surgeon as soon as possible.
• Avoid smoking before the surgery.
• Consuming any alcoholic beverages can affect anesthesia. So it would be best if you did not take anything alcoholic before surgery.
• Follow your doctor-prescribed medication that adjusts your current medicines. 

Diabetes Surgery Quick Facts 

Procedure	Diabetes Surgery
Duration	3 - 4 hours
Stay	7 nights hotel
Cost in Turkey	€2700 - €4000
Anesthesia	General anesthesia
Recovery	3 - 5 weeks
Final Results	12 months - 18 months
Side Effects	Chronic nausea, vomiting
Risks	inability to eat certain foods
Success Rate	70%
Exercise	After 6 months
Back To Work	After 4 - 6 weeks
Scars	No
Pain	Slight
Related Procedures	Gastric Bypass

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can surgery cure diabetes?

Yes, surgery can cure diabetes by undergoing bariatric surgery. The surgery treats diabetes by controlling how much sugar is in the blood. One type of surgery is called the duodenal switch.

What is the best surgery for diabetes?

Biliopancreatic diversion with a duodenal switch is the best surgery for a patient diagnosed with diabetes.