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By Abdulaziz Ali - Medically reviewed by Prof. Cuneyt Kayaalp, on Oct 31, 2024

What's Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric Surgery is used for different procedures that help patients lose weight by changing their digestive systems. Patients who find dieting and exercising ineffective turn to bariatric surgery, and it can be used to describe treatments like gastric bypass and gastric sleeve.

Bariatric Surgery Benefits

The benefits of bariatric surgery go beyond losing weight:

  • The remission of type-2 diabetes. Many studies found bariatric surgeries cause long-term remission of type-2 diabetes. Allowing the patient to be insulin-free. The procedure is effective for obese patients with type-2 diabetes.
  • Weight loss surgeries reduce your risk for heart disease. It can help to prevent the risk associated with strokes, and hypertension. And it can help blood pressure and cholesterol return to near-normal levels.
  • Improve mental health. Patients diagnosed with obesity battle depression because of poor body image and social stigma. Losing weight will improve your emotional and mental health and enable you to build a better active life.
  • Stopping sleep apnea. Most patients report they experience remission of sleep apnea after 1 year of having weight loss surgery. 
  • Relieves pain from the joints. Carrying excess weight will stress your joints, often causing chronic pain and joint damage. After the surgery, you will experience better mobility.  

Reasons Not to Have Turkey Bariatric Surgery

While Turkey bariatric surgery can be life-changing for many, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution for weight loss. Surgery is a significant decision with various risks and challenges that might make it unsuitable for some. Here are a few reasons why you might reconsider bariatric surgery in Turkey, and learn bariatric surgery eligibility

Health Risks and Complications

Like any surgery, there are qualifications for bariatric surgery bariatric procedures carry potential risks. Complications such as infections, blood clots, leaks in the digestive system, or adverse reactions to anesthesia are possible.

Lifestyle Changes

Bariatric surgery in Turkey isn't a magic fix. It requires a lifelong commitment to maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle. If you’re not ready to change your eating habits, physical activity, and overall health management, the surgery may not deliver the expected results.

Emotional and Psychological Impact

Weight loss surgery can have a significant emotional toll. Some individuals struggle with changing their body image or have difficulty adjusting to the limitations of what and how much they can eat.

Cost

Bariatric surgery Turkey cost is often expensive, and it may not be fully covered depending on your insurance plan.

Not Effective for Everyone

Surgery is not a guarantee for permanent weight loss. Some individuals may regain weight after the surgery if they don’t adhere to the recommended dietary and lifestyle changes.

What Are the 4 Types of Bariatric Surgery Turkey?

If you're considering Turkey bariatric surgery, understanding the different types of bariatric surgery for weight loss can help you decide which option might be best bariatric surgery in Turkey for your health and weight loss goals. There are four primary types of bariatric surgery Turkey, each with its advantages, risks, and suitability depending on your specific situation:

Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass)

This is one of the most commonly performed bariatric surgeries. In this procedure, the surgeon creates a small pouch at the top of your stomach and connects it directly to the small intestine. This reduces the amount of food you can eat and limits calorie and nutrient absorption, helping with substantial weight loss. However, gastric bypass is a more complex procedure with a higher risk of complications and requires significant dietary changes.

Sleeve Gastrectomy (Gastric Sleeve)

In this surgery, about 80% of your stomach is removed, leaving behind a small, tube-shaped section, or "sleeve." The smaller stomach helps you feel full faster and reduces hunger hormones. It’s less invasive than gastric bypass and has fewer long-term complications, but it’s irreversible, and you’ll still need to adhere to strict diet guidelines after surgery.

Adjustable Gastric Band (Lap-Band Surgery)

In this procedure, an adjustable band is placed around the top portion of your stomach, creating a small pouch that limits food intake. The band can be adjusted or removed as needed. This surgery is less invasive and has a quicker recovery time. However, it tends to result in less weight loss than other types and may require adjustments over time or even removal if complications arise.

Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS)

This is a more complex and less common surgery in which a large portion of the stomach is removed, and the remaining part is connected to the lower part of the small intestine. This drastically reduces calorie absorption and leads to significant weight loss. While highly effective, it also has a higher risk of nutrient deficiencies and complications. It’s typically reserved for individuals with a high bariatric surgery bmi (body mass index) or specific medical conditions.

Turkey Bariatric Surgery Healing Time

Healing after bariatric surgery Turkey varies depending on the type of procedure, but most people can expect to resume normal activities within 4 to 6 weeks. The recovery process requires careful attention to diet, physical activity, and follow-up care to ensure proper healing and long-term success.

One Month Before Bariatric Surgery in Turkey

In the month leading up to surgery, you’ll likely begin a preoperative diet, usually low in calories and high in protein, to help shrink the liver and make the surgery safer. It’s also a time to mentally prepare for the lifestyle changes you’ll need to make after surgery, including adjusting eating habits and incorporating light physical activity.

Months After Bariatric Surgery in Turkey

In the first few months after surgery, your body undergoes significant healing and adjustments. During this time, you’ll gradually transition from a liquid diet to soft foods and eventually to solid foods. Energy levels may fluctuate as your body adapts to your smaller stomach and limited food intake. Full recovery and adjustment to a new lifestyle can take about 6 months to a year, with ongoing follow-up appointments to monitor progress and bariatric surgery nutrition guidelines.

Bariatric Surgery and Pregnancy

If you’re considering both bariatric surgery and pregnancy, it's essential to understand how the two interact. Bariatric surgery can have a positive impact on fertility and pregnancy outcomes, but there are several factors to consider for the safety of both you and your baby:

Improved Fertility

Many women experience improved fertility after weight loss surgery, particularly those who previously struggled with obesity-related infertility. The hormonal imbalances caused by obesity, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can often improve after weight loss, making it easier to conceive.

Timing is Key

Experts typically recommend waiting at least 12 to 18 months after bariatric surgery before trying to conceive. This waiting period is important because your body will undergo significant changes in the first year, including rapid weight loss and adjustments to your nutrient absorption. Waiting allows your body to stabilize before supporting a pregnancy.

Nutritional Considerations

After bariatric surgery Turkey, your body may struggle to absorb certain nutrients critical for a healthy pregnancy. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly folate, iron, calcium, and vitamins B12 and D, can affect you and your developing baby. You’ll need to work closely with your healthcare team to ensure you take the right supplements and maintain a healthy diet during pregnancy.

Bariatric Surgery Aftercare

The journey doesn’t end after Turkey bariatric surgery; aftercare is one of the most crucial aspects of ensuring long-term success and maintaining your health. Proper aftercare includes medical follow-ups, lifestyle adjustments, and emotional support to help you adapt to the changes in your body and habits.

Dietary Changes

After surgery, your stomach’s capacity will be significantly reduced, and you’ll need to follow a structured diet. Initially, this involves a liquid or soft food diet before gradually reintroducing solid foods. Portion control and focusing on nutrient-dense foods will become a lifelong habit. You’ll also need to avoid foods irritating your digestive system, such as high-fat, sugary, or carbonated products.

Nutritional Supplements

Since some bariatric surgeries affect how your body absorbs nutrients, taking supplements is essential. Your doctor may recommend vitamins such as B12, calcium, vitamin D, iron, and folic acid to prevent deficiencies. Regular blood tests will help track your nutrient levels and ensure you're staying healthy.

Physical Activity

Exercise is vital in maintaining weight loss and boosting your overall well-being after surgery. Start with gentle activities, such as walking, and gradually build up to more intense exercises as your strength and stamina improve. Regular physical activity helps burn calories, build muscle, and improve mental health.

What Are Slider Foods After Bariatric Surgery?

Slider foods are soft, processed foods that easily slide through your smaller stomach without making you feel full. They are often low in nutrients and high in unhealthy fats, sugar, and calories. Examples include:

  • Chips or crackers
  • Ice cream
  • Cookies or cakes
  • Soft breads
  • Sugary beverages (soda, sweetened juices)

Why Are They Problematic?

These foods pass quickly through your stomach pouch, meaning you don’t feel satisfied after eating them. This can lead to overeating because they don’t provide the same sense of fullness that nutrient-dense foods like lean proteins or vegetables would. Additionally, slider foods can slow down weight loss or even lead to weight regain over time.

Post Bariatric Surgery Diet

After bariatric surgery in Turkey, your diet will progress through several stages, starting with liquids, moving to pureed foods, and gradually reintroducing soft and solid foods over several weeks. The goal is to help your stomach heal and adjust to its new size. Long-term, you'll focus on eating small portions of nutrient-dense foods and prioritizing protein while avoiding high-fat, sugary, and processed foods. Staying hydrated and adhering to bariatric surgery post op diet guidelines is key to maintaining weight loss and overall health.

Pre Bariatric Surgery Diet

The pre-bariatric surgery diet is designed to reduce the size of your liver and prepare your body for surgery. It typically involves a low-calorie, high-protein diet that restricts carbohydrates and fats. This helps reduce liver size, making the surgery safer and easier for your surgeon. The diet may include protein shakes, lean meats, vegetables, and a lot of water, and it’s usually followed for about two weeks before the procedure.

Vitamins After Bariatric Surgery

After Turkey bariatric surgery, taking vitamins and supplements is essential to prevent nutrient deficiencies because of the reduced ability to absorb nutrients; you’ll need to take daily supplements, including a multivitamin, calcium with vitamin D, vitamin B12, iron (if needed), and possibly other specific vitamins based on your procedure. Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider is crucial to monitor nutrient levels and adjust supplements to maintain overall health.

Bariatric Surgery vs Liposuction

Bariatric surgery and liposuction are both procedures that address weight issues, but they serve very different purposes and have distinct outcomes.

Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery is a medical procedure designed for individuals with severe obesity, primarily to aid in significant, long-term weight loss. It involves altering the digestive system by reducing the stomach size or bypassing a portion of the small intestine to limit food intake and absorption. This surgery is intended for those with a high BMI for bariatric surgery (typically over 40 or over 35 with related health conditions) and can help manage obesity-related health problems like diabetes and hypertension.

Liposuction

Liposuction, conversely, is a cosmetic procedure that removes localized fat deposits from specific areas of the body, such as the abdomen, thighs, or arms. It’s not a weight-loss solution but a body contouring method used to improve the body's shape by targeting stubborn fat that doesn’t respond to diet and exercise. Liposuction is typically suitable for individuals close to their ideal body weight and seeking to enhance their body’s appearance rather than address overall health issues related to obesity.

Cosmetic Procedures Related To Bariatric Surgery Treatment In Turkey 

Some patients prefer to have other cosmetic surgeries that complement each other; these complementary procedures include:

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

Bariatric Surgery Side Effects

Some of the possible reactions you can develop after bariatric surgery in Turkey include: 

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Blood clots
  • Injury to adjacent organs
  • Anesthesia risks
  • The trouble of absorbing certain nutrients

Bariatric Surgery Results

Most patients report a high satisfaction rate, and you can expect to lose 60% - 70% of body weight within the first 12 months. Bariatric surgery has a high success rate for achieving significant, long-term weight loss and improving obesity-related health conditions. Studies show that most patients lose between 50% - 70% of their excess weight within two years of surgery, with sustained bariatric surgery for weight loss over time if lifestyle changes are maintained.

In addition to weight loss, many patients see improvements or even resolution of conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea. However, success depends on the patient’s commitment to a healthy diet, regular exercise, and follow-up care.

How To Prepare For Bariatric Surgery Treatment

  • 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.
  • Avoid smoking before the surgery.
  • Consuming any alcoholic beverages can affect anesthesia. So it would be best if you did not take alcohol before surgery.
  • Follow your doctor-prescribed medication that adjusts your current medicines. 

The Appeal of Choosing A Bariatric Surgery Clinic in Antalya

There are many benefits of choosing a bariatric center in Antalya for your weight loss surgery, such as:

Low costs

The affordability of Bariatric Surgery in Antalya shouldn’t be equated to poor results from treatment. The affordable bariatric surgery cost Turkey are due to low general wage costs and inexpensive infrastructure with a high supply of board-certified and skilled bariatric surgeons

Quick And Reliable

Most bariatric surgery in Antalya clinics provide appointments all around the year and you can book any date that is convenient for you. Most of the taxing paperwork is handled by the clinic and you can focus on your procedure. 

Quick Visa Process

Residents of most European and North American countries can enter Turkey for a short duration of stay without a visa. Residents of most other countries can obtain an e-visa or visa on arrival. The hassle of paperwork is nonexistent when it comes to applying for a Turkish visa.

What Can You Eat After Weight Loss Surgery?

You will be on a strictly liquid diet of clear liquids only, for the first week. It is crucial to follow your doctor's recommendations about the food you can eat as straying from those recommendations increases the risk of complications. 

After the first week, you will be able to eat soft foods. You will, however, need to pay extra attention to make sure that you aren’t eating and drinking, so much as a sip of liquid, at the same time. 

How Much You Can Eat After Bariatric Surgery?

After bariatric surgery, you will need to cap your daily meals at 1000 calories and make sure to include at least 75 grams of proteins in these calories.

Bariatric Surgery Quick Facts

Procedure  Bariatric Surgery
Duration  2 - 3 hours
Stay  3 nights hotel
Cost in Turkey  €2150 - €4750
Anesthesia  General anesthesia
Recovery  3 - 5 weeks
Final Results  After 12 - 21 months
Side Effects  Trouble absorbing certain nutrients
Bariatric Surgery Risks  Anesthesia risks, infection, Bleeding
Success Rate  80% - 95%
Exercise  After 6 - 8 weeks (low intensity only)
Back To Work  After 2 - 4 weeks
Scars  Yes (invisible)
Pain  Yes (around incision)
Related Procedures  Gastric Bypass, Gastric Sleeve

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much does weight loss surgery in Turkey Cost?

Bariatric surgery in Turkey costs €2950 - €4750.

Which country is best for bariatric surgery?

Turkey is considered one of the top destinations for bariatric surgeries. The country has many board-certified surgeons who offer their services at a more affordable price than the EU countries and the USA.

Which weight loss surgery method is best?

Many studies reported gastric bypass surgery is the most effective procedure for weight loss. Gastric bypass results in an average of 31% total body weight loss in the first year. And 25% loss of total body weight after 5 years.

Why is Turkey so cheap for bariatric surgery?

Many factors affect bariatric surgery Turkey cost, like the location of the clinics, the surgeon's experience, and the technique used. But the cheap labor of surgeons and staff and the low cost of instruments and equipment explain why the procedure is inexpensive in Turkey.

is weight loss surgery in Turkey safe?

Yes, Turkey is one of the hubs for weight loss surgeries.

Which bariatric surgery has the best success rate?

The best success rates are associated with gastric sleeves in the Antalya procedure.

Can bariatric surgery be reversed?

Some types, like gastric bypass, can be reversed, but it’s complex and rarely done. Most procedures are permanent.

Can bariatric surgery cause cancer?

No, bariatric surgery does not cause cancer. It may reduce cancer risk by aiding in weight loss and improving overall health.

Can bariatric surgery cause diabetes?

No, it does not cause diabetes. It often helps improve or even reverse type 2 diabetes.

Can bariatric surgery cause gastroparesis?

Gastroparesis is not a common complication of bariatric surgery, but some patients may experience digestive issues post-surgery.

Can bariatric surgery cause kidney problems?

Bariatric surgery does not directly cause kidney problems, but dehydration or poor nutrient absorption can affect kidney health if not managed properly.

Can bariatric surgery cause gallstones?

Yes, rapid weight loss after surgery can increase the risk of developing gallstones.

Can bariatric surgery cause liver problems?

Bariatric surgery generally improves liver health, but in rare cases, it can lead to liver issues if nutrient deficiencies arise.

Can bariatric surgery reverse diabetes?

Yes, bariatric surgery can significantly improve or even reverse type 2 diabetes in many patients.

Can bariatric surgery be done twice?

Yes, revision surgery can be performed if needed, but it carries higher risks and complexity.

Can insurance cover bariatric surgery?

Yes, many insurance plans cover bariatric surgery if certain health criteria are met.

Gaining weight after bariatric surgery

Weight regain can occur if lifestyle changes aren’t maintained, though most patients keep off most of their lost weight.

How long does bariatric surgery take?

The surgery usually takes 1 to 3 hours, depending on the type of procedure.

How quickly can I get bariatric surgery?

The bariatric surgery timeline varies based on insurance, medical evaluations, and surgeon availability, but it can take several months from consultation to surgery.

What are the requirements for bariatric surgery?

You typically need a BMI of 40 or higher or a BMI of 35 with obesity-related health issues like diabetes or high blood pressure.

How to qualify for bariatric surgery?

Qualifying involves meeting specific BMI requirements, demonstrating previous efforts at weight loss, and a medical evaluation.

What organ is removed in bariatric surgery?

No organs are removed in most bariatric surgeries; the stomach is reduced or rerouted.

How serious is bariatric surgery?

Bariatric surgery is a major procedure with potential risks, but it is generally safe when performed by experienced surgeons.

At what weight do you need bariatric surgery?

You typically qualify if your BMI is 40 or higher or 35 with related health conditions.

What are the side effects of bariatric surgery?

Side effects can include nausea, vitamin deficiencies, and digestive issues, but they vary by individual and procedure type.

Can you gain weight after bariatric surgery?

Yes, weight regain is possible if dietary guidelines and lifestyle changes are not followed.

Do you lose weight after bariatric surgery?

Yes, most patients experience significant weight loss, especially in the first year after surgery.

Is the stomach removed in bariatric surgery?

In procedures like gastric sleeve, part of the stomach is removed, but other surgeries involve stomach resizing rather than removal.

Is bariatric surgery good for you?

Bariatric surgery can be life-changing for those with severe obesity, improving health and quality of life.

What are the restrictions after bariatric surgery?

You’ll need to follow strict dietary guidelines, avoid overeating, and limit certain foods like sugar and fats.

Is it worth having bariatric surgery?

For many, it’s worth it, as it can lead to significant weight loss and health improvements, but it requires lifelong commitment.

Can the GP refer for bariatric surgery?

Yes, in many cases, your GP can refer you for bariatric surgery, especially in countries with public healthcare systems like the NHS.

What is the safest form of weight loss surgery?

The gastric sleeve is often considered one of the safest options, with fewer complications than more invasive surgeries.

How long does bariatric surgery last?

The surgery lasts 1 to 3 hours, but the effects are lifelong with proper aftercare.

Is bariatric surgery only for weight loss?

Primarily, yes, but it also helps improve obesity-related conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.

How quickly can I get bariatric surgery?

It depends on the healthcare system and your individual case, but depending on assessments and approvals, it can take from a few months to over a year.

What can you no longer do after bariatric surgery?

You’ll need to avoid overeating, certain foods, such as sugary and fatty items, and drinking liquids with meals.

Why can't bariatric patients drink while eating?

Drinking while eating can cause the stomach to fill up too quickly and may lead to discomfort or vomiting.

How painful is bariatric surgery recovery?

Recovery pain is usually manageable with prescribed medications, though discomfort is common in the first few weeks.

Do they remove fat during bariatric surgery?

No, bariatric surgery reduces the stomach size or reroutes the intestines but does not involve direct fat removal.

What is the weight limit for bariatric surgery?

There is no specific weight limit, but a BMI over 40 or over 35 with health issues is typically required for surgery.

Does bariatric surgery keep weight off?

Bariatric surgery can help keep weight off long-term if patients adhere to lifestyle and dietary changes.

What percentage of people keep weight off after bariatric surgery?

Studies show that about 60-80% of patients maintain significant weight loss long-term after surgery.

What are the rules for bariatric patients?

Rules include eating small, frequent meals, avoiding sugar and fat, taking vitamins, and following up with healthcare providers.

What is the 20 20 20 rule after bariatric surgery?

The 20-20-20 rule suggests chewing each bite 20 times, taking 20 minutes to eat a meal, and stopping 20 minutes before feeling full.

Is bariatric surgery good for obesity?

Yes, it is one of the most effective treatments for severe obesity and its related health issues.

Why can't you have microwaved food after bariatric surgery?

Some advise avoiding microwaved food due to changes in texture and nutrients, which can make them harder to digest after surgery.