Weight Loss Surgery in Istanbul, Turkey
10 Min to read
29 Nov 2024
News article
Turkey Is a Leading Destination for Weight Loss Surgery
Excess weight and obesity affect millions of people worldwide and can impact both quality of life and long-term health. Bariatric, or weight loss, surgery has become an established option for people who have not achieved lasting results through diet and exercise alone, and Turkey has become one of the most sought-after destinations for these procedures.
With internationally accredited hospitals, experienced doctors and a patient-focused approach, Turkey offers Australians and New Zealanders access to high-quality weight loss surgery, arranged and supported by our Melbourne-based team from start to finish.
The Benefits of Weight Loss Surgery in Turkey
Significant and Sustained Weight Loss
Many patients lose a significant proportion of their excess weight within the first year, depending on the procedure and individual circumstances. For people who have not achieved lasting results through diet and exercise alone, it can offer a longer-term option for managing their weight.
Resolving Obesity-Related Health Conditions
Weight loss surgery can help improve or resolve a number of health conditions associated with excess weight, including:
Type 2 Diabetes: can improve insulin sensitivity, with some patients experiencing remission.
Hypertension: Reduced blood pressure helps lower the risk of stroke and heart disease.
Sleep Apnea: Enhanced breathing and better sleep quality.
Joint Pain: Reduced body weight eases pressure on joints, alleviating chronic pain.
Improved Mental Health
Losing weight and gaining mobility can support increased self-esteem and may help reduce symptoms of low mood or anxiety for some patients, contributing to overall wellbeing.
Types of Weight Loss Surgery Offered in Turkey
1. Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Turkey
Gastric sleeve surgery in Turkey, or sleeve gastrectomy, is one of the most popular bariatric procedures worldwide.
Procedure: Around 75-80% of the stomach is removed, leaving a smaller, tube-shaped stomach.
Benefits:
Reduces hunger by decreasing the production of ghrelin (the hunger hormone).
Helps patients lose 50-60% of their excess weight within the first year.
No rerouting of intestines, reducing complications.
2. Gastric Bypass Surgery in Turkey
Gastric bypass is a more complex procedure, often suited to patients with severe obesity or obesity-related health conditions.
Procedure: The stomach is divided into a small pouch, and a portion of the small intestine is rerouted to bypass part of the digestive system.
Benefits:
Can lead to faster initial weight loss compared to some other weight loss procedures.
Can help improve or resolve conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and sleep apnea.
Helps patients lose 60-70% of their excess weight within 12-18 months.
3. Gastric Balloon in Turkey
The gastric balloon in Turkey is a non-surgical, temporary weight-loss option for individuals who want to jumpstart their weight-loss journey.
Procedure: A deflated balloon is inserted into the stomach through the mouth and inflated with saline to occupy space.
Benefits:
Helps patients lose 10-20% of their body weight in 6 months.
May suit patients who are not ready for, or not eligible for, surgery.
Quick recovery time with minimal downtime.
Why Choose Turkey for Weight Loss Surgery
1. State-of-the-Art Medical Facilities
Turkey is home to JCI-accredited hospitals equipped with modern technology, with many facilities specialising in bariatric surgery.
2. Experienced Doctors in Turkey
Doctors performing weight loss surgery in Turkey are experienced, and many have trained internationally, bringing extensive expertise to procedures such as gastric bypass, gastric sleeve surgery and gastric balloon placement.
3. Comprehensive and Affordable Services in Turkey
Weight loss surgery in Turkey typically costs 50 to 70% less than in Australia or New Zealand, without compromising on quality. All-inclusive services often cover:
Pre-operative evaluations.
The surgery itself.
Post-operative care.
Hotel stays and transportation services.
4. A Unique Cultural Experience
Medical tourists can combine their surgery journey with exploring Turkey’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, turning a health-focused trip into a holistic and memorable experience.
Patient Experiences in Turkey
Turkey's focus on patient care has helped many patients achieve positive results:
Patients report shedding over 60% of excess weight within 18 months.
Many patients experience improvements in health conditions such as type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, with some achieving remission.
Increased energy and mobility can help patients take part in careers, hobbies and activities that were previously more difficult.
Body Contouring After Weight Loss Surgery
Significant weight loss can leave excess or loose skin, particularly around the abdomen, thighs and arms. Once your weight has stabilised, typically around 12 to 18 months after surgery, many patients choose to combine their weight loss journey with body-contouring procedures during a follow-up trip to Istanbul.
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty): removes excess skin and tightens the abdominal muscles, helping to create a firmer contour after major weight loss.
Thigh Lift: removes loose or excess skin from the inner or outer thighs, a common concern following significant weight loss.
Arm Lift (Brachioplasty): addresses loose skin under the upper arms, which can develop after significant weight loss.
Liposuction: can help refine areas with stubborn fat deposits that remain after weight loss surgery.
At Esteticium Australia, we can help Australians and New Zealanders plan a follow-up body-contouring procedure in Istanbul as part of their broader weight loss journey, working with board-certified surgeons at JCI-accredited hospitals.
