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Bariatric and metabolic surgery comprises a group of surgical procedures used in the treatment of obesity and associated metabolic conditions. This page offers informative content on established methods including gastric sleeve (sleeve gastrectomy), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, mini gastric bypass (OAGB), metabolic surgery, revisional surgery and endoscopic procedures.
Gastric sleeve surgery (sleeve gastrectomy) is an established bariatric procedure in which approximately 75-80% of the stomach is removed laparoscopically and the remaining portion is reshaped into a narrow, long tube. According to IFSO data, it is among the most frequently performed bariatric procedures worldwide.
Gastric sleeve details
Gastric bypass (Roux-en-Y) is an established bariatric procedure in which a small pouch of approximately 30 mL is created from the stomach and a section of the small intestine is bypassed. It both restricts food intake and alters the absorption pathway. It is often a preferred option for patients with type 2 diabetes alongside obesity.
Gastric bypass details
Mini gastric bypass (one anastomosis gastric bypass, OAGB) is a laparoscopic bariatric procedure in which the stomach is reshaped into a long tubular pouch along the lesser curvature, connected to the small intestine with a single anastomosis. It combines restrictive and malabsorptive features and is generally performed in a shorter operative time than Roux-en-Y bypass.
Mini bypass details
The gastric balloon (intragastric balloon) is a temporary, non-surgical treatment option for obesity, placed endoscopically inside the stomach and generally removed after approximately six months. It is considered in patients with BMI 27-40 who are not surgical candidates.
Gastric balloon details
Metabolic surgery is a surgical approach whose primary aim extends beyond weight loss alone to influence metabolic parameters, particularly type 2 diabetes. Through planned reconfiguration of digestive system anatomy, it targets effects on intestinal hormones (GLP-1, PYY), insulin sensitivity and glycaemic control. It is considered in patients with BMI 30 or above with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes.
Metabolic surgery details
Revisional bariatric surgery is a secondary surgical intervention performed following a previously undertaken obesity procedure, in cases of weight regain, inadequate weight loss, complications or newly developed metabolic/gastrointestinal conditions. Each revisional case is planned individually based on the type of the prior surgery and the current clinical picture.
Revisional surgery details
The swallowable gastric balloon is an obesity treatment method that does not require endoscopy or anaesthesia. Taken orally in capsule form, it is inflated in the stomach with 550 mL of distilled water to create a feeling of satiety for approximately 16 weeks, after which it self-deflates and is eliminated from the body through the digestive tract.
Swallowable balloon detailsThe table below presents the key parameters of the main bariatric and metabolic surgery procedures offered at the clinic. The values shown represent general clinical averages; individual patient experiences may vary based on personal factors.
| Procedure | BMI Threshold | Recovery | Hospital Stay | Surgery Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gastric Sleeve | ≥ 35 | 4–6 weeks | 3–4 days | 60–90 min | Details |
| Gastric Bypass | ≥ 35 | 4–6 weeks | 3–4 days | 90–120 min | Details |
| Mini Gastric Bypass | ≥ 35 | 4–6 weeks | 2–3 days | 60–90 min | Details |
| Gastric Balloon | 27–40 | 3–7 days | Same-day | 15–30 min | Details |
| Metabolic Surgery | ≥ 30 | 4–6 weeks | 3–4 days | 60–150 min | Details |
| Revisional Bariatric Surgery | Individual | 6–8 weeks | 3–5 days | 90–180 min | Details |
| Swallowable Gastric Balloon | 27–40 | 3–7 days | Same-day | 20–30 min | Details |
Common questions about bariatric and metabolic surgery for international patients.
Türkiye has become a recognized destination for bariatric surgery due to the combination of JCI-accredited hospitals, internationally trained surgeons, and comprehensive care packages. Istanbul offers direct flight connections from most European, Middle Eastern and North African cities, and the country operates under the Health Türkiye programme, which is authorized and monitored by the Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Health. Treatment costs are typically lower than in the UK, US or Western Europe, while clinical standards follow international protocols.
Bariatric surgery is generally considered for patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or above, or a BMI between 35-40 with obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnoea. For metabolic surgery, the BMI threshold can extend down to 30 in patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes. Final eligibility is determined through individual clinical assessment by the surgeon.
Most international patients stay in Istanbul for 6-8 nights for laparoscopic bariatric procedures. This typically includes 1-2 days of pre-operative assessment (blood tests, imaging, consultations), 3-4 days of hospital stay following surgery, and 2-3 days of recovery at the hotel before flying home. For endoscopic procedures such as the gastric balloon, a shorter stay of 2-3 nights is generally sufficient.
Treatment packages for international patients generally include pre-operative tests and consultations, the surgical procedure itself, hospital stay, medications during admission, post-operative follow-up consultations, airport transfers, and hotel accommodation for the recovery period. Flight tickets are typically arranged separately by the patient. Specific inclusions vary by procedure — detailed information is provided during the initial consultation.
According to IFSO data, patients typically lose approximately 60-70% of their excess weight within 12-18 months following bariatric surgery. The actual amount of weight loss varies from person to person and depends on the procedure performed, dietary adherence, physical activity, and individual metabolic factors. Long-term follow-up and lifestyle changes are essential for sustained results.
Long-term follow-up after bariatric surgery is essential and includes regular medical check-ups, nutritional assessment, and vitamin/mineral monitoring (B12, iron, vitamin D, calcium). The standard follow-up schedule in the first year includes check-ups at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months, with annual reviews thereafter. International patients can continue follow-up with a local physician in their home country, with remote consultations available from the Istanbul clinic when needed.
Like any surgical procedure, bariatric surgery carries risks including bleeding, infection, and anaesthesia-related complications, as well as procedure-specific risks such as leakage or stricture. Having surgery abroad introduces additional considerations around post-operative travel and continuity of care. These risks are managed through thorough pre-operative assessment, appropriate recovery time before flying, and clear post-discharge instructions. Individual risks are discussed in detail during consultation.
International patients can arrange an initial consultation remotely via video call or WhatsApp. During this consultation, medical history, current health status, previous imaging and test results are reviewed. If the procedure appears suitable, a detailed treatment plan is prepared including timeline, package details and pre-travel preparation instructions. Contact details are available at the bottom of this page.
For detailed information about bariatric and metabolic surgery procedures, you may use the contact channels below. Initial consultations for international patients can be arranged remotely via video call or WhatsApp.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hasan Abuoğlu
Associate Professor of General Surgery
