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By Abdulaziz Ali - Medically reviewed by Dr. Hasan L. Lice, on Oct 07, 2024

What is General Surgery? 

General surgery is a broad surgical specialty that focuses on treating various illnesses. It also deals with diseases involving the skin, breast, soft tissue, trauma, and hernias.

General surgeons perform various procedures and surgeries, often in emergencies. They have broad skills and knowledge to diagnose, treat, and manage patients with various conditions. They aim to treat both acute and chronic illnesses that may need surgical intervention. Their training covers pre-operative, operative, and post-operative care.

 

Types of General Surgery

General surgery covers a broad range of procedures, including but not limited to:

  • Gastrointestinal Surgery: Involves surgeries related to the digestive system, such as appendectomies, bowel resections, hernia repairs, and procedures to treat conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
  • Endocrine Surgery: Focuses on surgeries involving the endocrine glands, including thyroidectomy (removal of the thyroid gland).
  • Breast Surgery: Includes procedures such as lumpectomy, mastectomy, and breast reconstruction following breast cancer.
  • Colorectal Surgery: Addresses conditions affecting the colon, rectum, and anus.
  • Hepatobiliary Surgery: Involves surgeries related to the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts, including liver resection and procedures to treat bile duct disorders or liver tumors.
  • Trauma Surgery: Deals with surgical interventions for traumatic injuries, including abdominal trauma, thoracic trauma, and injuries caused by accidents, falls, or other traumatic events.

General Surgery Recovery Timeline

The recovery period will vary depending on the type and complexity of the procedure, as well as individual factors such as overall health and any underlying medical conditions.

The recovery period following general surgery can range from several days to weeks, according to your response to treatment. The doctor will discharge you from the hospital within a few days after surgery, but full recovery may take several weeks or longer.

The duration of your stay in Turkey after the surgery will be according to the surgeon's recommendations. In many cases, you may need to remain for at least a week or two to attend follow-up appointments and ensure a smooth recovery process.

You can resume light work duties within a few weeks after surgery. But if your work is physically demanding, you may need additional time off for full recovery.

During recovery, avoid demanding physical activity and exercise for several weeks following general surgery. Light walking and gentle movements may be encouraged early in the recovery process, but post-pone heavy exercise until cleared by the surgeon.

While some improvements may be noticeable shortly after surgery, the full results may take weeks or months to become visible as swelling subsides and tissues heal.

The doctor might suggest a specific diet tailored to your needs based on the nature of the procedure performed. The diet may include soft or easily digestible foods, staying hydrated, and avoiding foods that could irritate the digestive system or interfere with healing.

How Does General Surgery Procedure Work?

Consultation

During the consultation, your surgeon will review your medical history, conduct a physical examination, and discuss your concerns and goals. You can ask questions and express any concerns about the procedure. Based on this assessment, the surgeon will recommend the best surgical approach tailored to your needs.

Before the Surgery

Before the surgery, you'll receive detailed instructions from your doctor. This may include guidelines on fasting, medication adjustments, and what to bring on the day of the procedure. Expect pre-operative tests, such as blood work or other diagnostic tests.

The Surgery

The surgery will vary greatly depending on the type of general surgery you're undergoing. But you'll be given anesthesia to ensure comfort and painlessness during the operation. The surgeon will then make incisions using specialized instruments. They will perform the procedure, which could involve removing, repairing, or replacing tissue. Once the surgery is completed, the incisions are closed, and you're moved to a recovery area.

Follow up

You will have scheduled visits with your surgeon to check the surgical site, assess healing, and address any concerns. Follow the care instructions, such as wound care, activity restrictions, and signs of potential complications to watch for.

Side Effects of General Surgery Procedure

Undergoing any surgical procedure has risks and side effects. Some common side effects include:

  • Pain and Discomfort: It's normal to experience pain in the treated area. Use pain medications to reduce discomfort
  • Swelling and Bruising: Treated areas may swell and bruise as part of the healing process.
  • Fatigue: Many patients feel tired or weak post-surgery.
  • Nausea and Vomiting: Anesthesia and pain medications can cause stomach upset in some patients.
  • Risk of Infection: There's always a slight risk of infection at the incision site.
  • Scarring: Any surgery involving incisions will leave some scarring, although it often fades over time.

General Surgery Results

The success rate of general surgery in Turkey is high. Most patients report a high satisfaction rate, and the results are typically long-lasting. You should maintain a stable weight and follow a healthy lifestyle.

How to Prepare for General Surgery 

  • You should avoid blood-thinning medications, smoking, and alcohol consumption for at least two weeks before the procedure. 
  • You should also arrange for someone to accompany you during the procedure.
  • Take at least a week off work for proper recovery.
  • Choosing a reputable clinic with experienced medical professionals can help minimize the risks and ensure optimal results. 

General Surgery Quick Facts

Procedure  General Surgery
Duration  Varies by type and complexity of surgery
Stay in Turkey  Minimum 1-2 weeks for follow-up and initial recovery
Cost in Turkey  €2,000 - €7,000
Anesthesia  General, varies with the procedure
Recovery Time  Several days to weeks, depending on the surgery and patient health
Final Results Visibility  Weeks to months, as swelling subsides and tissues heal
Side Effects  Pain, discomfort, swelling, bruising, fatigue, nausea, risk of infection
Risks  Infection, complications from anesthesia, scarring
Success Rate  High, varies by procedure
Returning To Work  A few weeks, depending on job's physical demands
Returning to Exercise  Several weeks, based on the surgeon's advice
Activities to Avoid  Heavy lifting and strenuous activities until cleared by the surgeon
Diet Post-Surgery  Soft or easily digestible foods, stay hydrated, specific dietary advice
Related Procedures  Breast surgery, Appendectomy, Cholecystectomy
Consultation  Review medical history, discuss goals, recommend surgical approach
Before the Surgery  Fasting, medication adjustments, pre-operative tests
The Surgery  Performed under anesthesia, specific actions depend on the surgery type
Follow up  Post-surgical checkups to monitor healing and manage any complications

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Turkey good for surgery? 

Yes, Turkey is recognized for its high-quality healthcare services. The country has many accredited hospitals and skilled surgeons across various specialties.

Why do people come to Turkey for surgery? 

People come to Turkey for surgery due to affordable prices, high-quality medical care, and the opportunity to recover in a country known for its historical sites and natural beauty.

Is surgery in Istanbul safe? 

Yes, surgery in Istanbul is generally safe, especially when performed in accredited and reputable hospitals. The city has a robust healthcare system with many skilled healthcare professionals.

What is the most common general surgery? 

The most common general surgeries include appendectomies, gallbladder removals, and hernia repairs.

What surgery is popular in Turkey? 

Cosmetic and plastic surgery, hair transplants, dental procedures, and bariatric surgery are among the most popular surgeries in Turkey.

Is surgery expensive in Turkey? 

Compared to many Western countries, surgery in Turkey is less expensive without compromising on quality, making it an attractive option for medical tourists.

What is Turkey known for medically? 

Turkey is known for its advanced medical facilities, especially in cosmetic surgery, dental procedures, hair transplants, and ophthalmology.

What are the top treatments in Turkey? 

The top treatments in Turkey include cosmetic surgery, hair transplantation, dental treatments, eye surgeries (like LASIK), and orthopedic surgeries.

What is the hardest surgery to have? 

Surgeries considered to be the hardest include organ transplants, particularly heart and brain surgeries, due to their complexity and the risks involved.

What are the top 5 major surgeries? 

The top 5 major surgeries could include heart bypass surgery, organ transplants (heart, liver, kidney), brain surgery, spine surgery, and joint replacement surgeries.

Why is surgery cheap in Turkey? 

Surgery is cheaper in Turkey due to lower labor and administrative costs, government subsidies for healthcare facilities, and a competitive market that drives prices down, all without sacrificing the quality of care.