Obesity Surgery: 3 Top Treatments in Turkey

Obesity Surgery: Types, Benefits, and Treatment Overview

Obesity surgery is becoming a crucial solution for millions facing obesity and related health problems worldwide. In Turkey, with its advanced healthcare system and affordable treatments, obesity surgery has gained popularity among both locals and medical tourists. This article explores causes, types, and benefits of obesity surgery in Turkey to help you understand your options.

The development of healthcare in Turkey, overall quality of engagement, and support placed towards the same have portrayed tremendous potential with time. The increasing quality of healthcare has progressed while retaining affordability, making them an attractive destination for medical tourism. Tourists can explore Turkey's historic and scenic beauty, with the assurance of safety and health, through affordable healthcare.

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What is the main cause of Obesity Surgery in Turkey?

It is important to understand Obesity Surgery, before progressing ahead with adequate treatment and its effect on health in Istanbul. Obesity definition is the excess accumulation of fat which can impact health by increasing the body mass index and waist circumference.

The severity can be determined by 3 Obesity Grades, calculated based on the patient's Body Mass Index (BMI). It is typically considered that Obesity BMI is 30 or higher, whereas an overweight patient's BMI is 25 or higher.

What are the 3 causes of obesity in Turkey?

There are multiple Obesity factors in Istanbul, but these are the most-common Obesity diagnoses made by doctors in Turkey.

Lack of sleep

Insufficient sleep can lead to a hormonal imbalance in the body, causing it to crave high-calorie foods more. Leptin and ghrelin are hormones that control appetite, and when people lack sufficient rest, their production becomes imbalanced and causes an amplified desire for food.

High-calorie diet

The prevalence of unhealthy, processed food, it is advertising, the rate of urbanization, and changing lifestyles have all contributed to people consuming meals rich in energy, sugars, salt, saturated fats, and trans fats. This can result in unprecedented weight gain, diabetes, and even cancer.

Lack of exercise

Physical exercise involves performing activities that expend energy and engage skeletal muscles. It is critical to maintaining and enhancing both mental and physical health. Insufficient physical activity and excessive caloric intake can lead to obesity, an accumulation of excess fat. 

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The types of bariatric surgeries in Turkey

Bariatric surgery is a highly effective Obesity treatment, but it still does not eliminate the importance of health and fitness. Let's understand the most effective types practiced in Istanbul. 

Gastric bypass in Turkey

Gastric bypass surgery treats patients facing severe obesity, as it helps to lose weight by restricting the stomach's size and directly connecting it with the small intestine. The reduced food intake makes the patient feel fuller faster, thereby controlling the absorption of calories and nutrition from food. It can be effective for long-term weight loss when combined with lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and healthy eating habits.

Gastric sleeve in Turkey

Sleeve gastrectomy is a surgical procedure gaining popularity as an effective way to manage morbid obesity. It removes nearly 80% of the stomach, leaving behind a tube-shaped stomach with the dimensions of a banana. This technique helps to reduce hunger and restrict the amount of food consumed, resulting in weight loss.

Understanding The Biliopancreatic Diversion with duodenal switch (BPD/DS) in Istanbul.

This surgery involves three components. To begin with, a sleeve gastrectomy is conducted, after which the stomach is stitched back using apparatus. 
The second step of this process diverts the food from its usual route in the upper small intestine. This limits how many calories and nutrients your body can absorb. This involves dividing the small intestine and creating a connection close to its end. The third step of the BPD/DS method alters the traditional process of breaking down food using bile and digestive juices, thus decreasing caloric absorption for more significant weight loss. A side of the small intestine is connected to the duodenum.

Single anastomosis duodenal-ileal bypass with sleeve gastrectomy (SADI-S) in Istanbul

This surgical method merges the duodenal switch and sleeve gastrectomy, resulting in a single direct connection between the duodenum and the ileum. The operation is conducted similarly to a sleeve gastrectomy, forming a narrow, tube-shaped stomach. A short segment of the small intestine is then divided, and a loop is attached to the new stomach pouch. When eating, food moves through this pouch to the end section of the small intestine, where it combines with digestive enzymes from the upper part, enabling proper absorption of essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, this surgery supports weight loss, suppresses appetite, increases fullness, and improves blood sugar and diabetes management.

Adjustable gastric band in Istanbul

During the AGB procedure, a surgeon fits a soft silicone ring at the upper part of the stomach, which can be adjusted in tightness as needed. This technique works by forming a small upper pouch in the stomach to curb appetite and limit eating volume, promoting gradual weight loss. By making changes to the band, patients control how much food the new stomach section can hold, helping sustain long-term weight management and progress.

Get the best obesity surgery in Turkey

Taking action against obesity early is key, as it can trigger a spectrum of health risks such as diabetes, strokes, certain cancers, or cardiovascular problems. Proper management ideally involves comprehensive care at professional medical centers. These locations offer tailored nutrition programs, exercise strategies, medical therapies, and, if necessary, surgical interventions to tackle obesity. Quick and coordinated care protects individuals from long-term consequences while promoting general well-being.

* Liv Hospital Editorial Board has contributed to the publication of this content .
* Contents of this page is for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The content of this page does not include information on medicinal health care at Liv Hospital .

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is obesity surgery?

Obesity surgery, or bariatric surgery, is a medical procedure that helps people lose excess weight when diet and exercise alone are not enough. It works by reducing stomach size or altering digestion to limit calorie absorption.

Why is obesity surgery popular in Turkey?

Turkey offers advanced medical facilities, skilled surgeons, and affordable pricing, making it a preferred destination for both local and international patients seeking safe and effective obesity treatment.

Who qualifies for obesity surgery?

Candidates usually have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 or higher, or 30 with obesity-related health issues such as diabetes or hypertension. A full medical evaluation determines eligibility.

What are the main types of obesity surgery in Turkey?

The most common procedures include gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, adjustable gastric band, biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD/DS), and SADI-S. Each helps reduce food intake and support long-term weight loss.

What is gastric sleeve surgery?

Gastric sleeve surgery removes about 80% of the stomach, leaving a narrow tube-shaped section that limits food intake and reduces hunger, leading to significant and steady weight loss.

What is gastric bypass surgery?

This surgery connects a small stomach pouch directly to the small intestine, reducing calorie absorption and helping patients feel full sooner. It’s effective for managing obesity and related conditions.

How long is recovery after obesity surgery?

Patients typically stay in the hospital for two to three days and return to daily activities within two to four weeks, depending on the surgery type and individual health.

Are there risks with obesity surgery?

As with any surgery, there can be risks such as infection, bleeding, or nutrient deficiencies. Choosing an experienced surgical team minimizes these risks and ensures safer recovery.

How soon do results appear?

Weight loss starts immediately after surgery and continues over several months. Most patients lose 50–70% of their excess body weight within the first year.

Why choose Liv Hospital for obesity surgery in Turkey?

Liv Hospital provides world-class bariatric care using advanced technology and personalized treatment plans. With skilled surgeons and comprehensive post-surgery support, Liv Hospital ensures safe, effective, and lasting results for patients seeking a healthier life.

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