Weight loss surgery, also called bariatric surgery, is a group of surgical procedures that alter the structure of the digestive system to help obese patients who struggle to lose weight with diet and exercise.
Clinichub, one of Turkey’s leading health tourism organisations, connects international patients with accredited hospitals and experienced surgeons for weight loss surgery.
Weight loss surgery is a treatment option especially for class III obesity (morbid obesity) by reducing the stomach capacity or decreasing the body’s ability to absorb fat and calories.
Weight reducing surgery restricts calorie intake by decreasing stomach size, altering the path of food through the digestive system, or decreasing nutrient absorption.
Weight loss surgical procedures should be considered for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or 35 and above with obesity-related health problems, such as diabetes or hypertension.
Gastric bypass surgery (Roux-en-Y), sleeve gastrectomy (gastric sleeve), gastric balloon (a non-surgical procedure), and gastric transit bipartition surgery are main weight loss surgery options.
During the gastric bypass surgery the stomach is divided into two sections using surgical staples to create a small stomach pouch. A portion of the small intestine is bypassed and reconnected to the new stomach in a Y-shaped configuration.
The gastric sleeve (sleeve gastrectomy) is performed by removing approximately 75-80% of the stomach, leaving behind a narrow, tube-shaped stomach.
The gastric balloon is a temporary, non-surgical weight loss treatment for people with a BMI of 30 or higher. It is done by placing an inflatable balloon in the stomach with an endoscopy.
Gastric transit bipartition is a next-generation metabolic surgery performed by removing part of the stomach and connecting the remaining stomach to the end of the small intestine. It creates two intestinal pathways for food, improving blood sugar control and supporting weight loss.
If your BMI is 40 or higher, or 35 or higher and you have serious obesity-related health problems such as diabetes or hypertension, you may be eligible for weight loss surgery. Additionally, if your BMI is over 30 and you have type 2 diabetes, weight loss surgery may also be suitable for you.
The general criteria for metabolic surgery are a body mass index (BMI) of over 40. However, doctors may also recommend weight loss surgery for patients with a BMI level of 30 or 35 and above.
Even though the main requirement for weight loss surgery is a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or above, weight loss surgery may also be considered for patients with a BMI of 35 or more who have obesity-related metabolic syndromes, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or high cholesterol.
Metabolic and bariatric surgery is generally not appropriate for patients with current low blood sugar levels (hypoglycaemia), bleeding or clotting disorders, serious heart disease that contraindicates the use of anaesthesia, or severe systemic diseases such as liver or kidney disease.
It is difficult to give a definite answer to the question “How much is weight loss surgery?” The cost can be directly influenced by the type of surgical procedure, the surgeon’s expertise and experience, the hospital’s facilities and technology.
The cost of obesity surgery can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of procedure, the surgeon’s experience and expertise, and the hospital or clinic’s facilities and accreditation, which are also influential factors.
Before weight reduction surgery, patients should make some changes in their eating habits and lifestyle, and have detailed consultations with specialists such as dietitians and mental health professionals.
During the initial consultation doctors conduct a thorough evaluation of the patient, including a calculation of their body mass index (BMI, based on height and weight). Blood tests and scans may also be used to check for existing health problems and examine the patient’s general health.
Before surgery, patients should temporarily transition to a liquid diet. Patients can consume caffeine-free tea and coffee, non-fat milk, clear soup or broth without added ingredients, and fruit juices with no added sugar or preservatives. It is also important to stop smoking and drinking alcohol at least six weeks before surgery.
Mental health professionals review various factors, such as the patient’s motivation, previous experiences of weight loss, eating habits, and mental health, for example, depression or anxiety. These assessments help to prepare patients mentally for surgery and the post-operative period.
Depending on the procedure, the size of the stomach may be reduced or the way the digestive system functions may be altered. During gastric bypass surgery, a small pouch is formed at the top of the stomach and connected to the lower part of the small intestine.
In a sleeve gastrectomy, approximately 80% of the stomach is removed to create a smaller, tube-shaped stomach. In the non-surgical weight loss procedure known as the gastric balloon, a balloon is placed in the stomach using endoscopy to trigger earlier feelings of fullness.
Weight loss surgeries are usually performed using a minimally invasive laparoscopic technique under general anesthesia. Surgeons access the abdominal area using a laparoscope, inserted through small incisions.
The duration of weight loss procedures depends on the type of surgery. Gastric bypass operations usually take around 2 hours, sleeve gastrectomy typically lasts between 1-3 hours, gastric balloon usually takes around 20 minutes, and transit bipartition surgery generally takes between 1.5-2 hours.
After weight loss surgery, depending on the type of procedure, patients generally need to stay in the hospital for 1-3 days under observation.
Following surgery, patients may need to rest at home for several weeks. It is generally recommended not to do any heavy physical activities for about 6 weeks. Returning to a normal diet can take up to 12 weeks.
In the first few weeks after bariatric surgery, resting, staying hydrated and following the doctor’s advice are important. Experiencing mild pain and discomfort is considered normal. Short, gentle walks can support circulation, but heavy physical activity should be avoided.
After surgical weight loss, during the first week, a full liquid diet is recommended, and in the next three weeks, pureed foods such as meats, vegetables, and fruits can be gradually permitted.
Between 5-8 weeks, small portions of well-cooked meat and vegetables can be added to the diet. Most patients can return to a regular diet after nine weeks, although this may take up to twelve weeks in some cases.
Time Period | Diet Type | Foods | Foods to Avoid |
1st Week | Liquid Diet | Water, clear broth, sugar-free herbal teas, decaffeinated tea/coffee, skim milk, protein shakes. | Carbonated drinks, sugary beverages, caffeine, using straws, large or fast sips |
2-4 Weeks | Pureed Diet | Pureed meat, chicken or fish, eggs, yogurt, cheese, vegetables, unsweetened applesauce | Solid, spicy, fried, very hot or very cold foods |
5-8 Weeks | Soft Diet | Well-cooked meats, fish, omelets, soft fruits, and well-cooked vegetables | Tough or fibrous meats, raw vegetables, fruits with skins or seeds, fatty foods |
9+ Weeks | Normal Diet | Protein-focused balanced meals, fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains (well-chewed), low-fat dairy | High-fat and sugary foods, carbonated drinks, alcohol, and eating too quickly |
Most patients can return to work and normal daily activities within 1 to 2 weeks after weight loss surgery. However, patients with physically challenging jobs may need to wait longer.
Even after returning to a normal diet, it’s important to continue eating plenty of protein, fresh fruit and vegetables, and doing regular exercise to minimise muscle loss and support a healthy, balanced diet.
Bariatric surgery can reduce hunger hormones, boost metabolism and prevent weight gain. So, it can decrease the risk of high blood pressure, stroke and heart attack. It can also regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
The amount of weight lost after surgery differs from person to person and depends on the type of procedure. People can lose between 38 and 87 kilograms in the first year. Within two years, most patients can lose half or more of their excess weight.
After bariatric surgery cardiovascular risks such as heart disease, high blood pressure and high cholesterol may decrease. Type 2 diabetes can be controlled or even completely eliminated. There can also be improvements in sleep apnoea, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
A weight loss operation can lead to significant improvements in physical health, quality of life and self-confidence. Within the first year, patients experience a noticeable increase in self-esteem and are able to perform daily activities more comfortably. These positive changes in body image can also enhance social participation, supporting overall psychological well-being.
Advances in healthcare technology have significantly reduced the risk of complications of weight loss operations. However, these are invasive and can carry some risks. In the short term, bleeding, infection, blood clots, leakage from the stomach or intestinal sutures, and diarrhoea may occur.
In the long term, changes in nutrient absorption may lead to vitamin and mineral deficiencies, hernias, scar tissue formation, bone loss (osteoporosis), nerve damage and severe hypoglycaemia, especially after gastric bypass surgery.
Bariatric surgery may cause some side effects because it changes the structure and function of the digestive system. The most common side effects are dumping syndrome, malabsorption and related nutritional deficiencies. Changes in digestion may also increase the risk of bile reflux and gallstone formation due to rapid weight loss.
Some complications may occur after bariatric surgery; however, these risks can be managed with the appropriate aftercare and lifestyle changes. It is important to attend regular check-ups, take prescribed vitamin and mineral supplements, and follow the recommended nutrition plan.
Weight loss surgery can lead to changes in digestion and absorption, potentially resulting in deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin B12, folate, vitamin D, iron and calcium.
Within the first 6 months after weight loss surgery, most patients lose approximately 60% of their excess weight, and about 77% within 12 months.
After sleeve gastrectomy, patients can lose approximately 25-30% of their body weight. Following gastric bypass surgery, it is possible to lose around 70% of excess weight. With gastric balloon treatment, patients typically lose 12-40% of their body weight within the first six months.
With healthy, balanced nutrition and regular physical activity, patients can maintain around 50% of the lost weight on average five years after surgery.
Clinichub is a leading health tourism organisation in Turkey, connecting international patients with experienced bariatric surgeons in Ministry of Health–approved and JCI-accredited hospitals. Every step, from initial consultation to post-care, is carefully coordinated. After returning to their hotels, patients continue to receive uninterrupted 24/7 post-operative care and support.
Contact Clinichub today for a free consultation and personalised weight loss surgery plan. Start your healthier lifestyle with the help of our experienced specialists, who will support you every step of the process.
Sleeve gastrectomy is widely considered safe due to its lower complication rates.
The weight loss surgery cost can change depending on the procedure, the surgeon's experience and training, and the hospital.
Weight regain is possible if dietary and lifestyle changes are not maintained.
While surgical procedures such as sleeve gastrectomy are not reversible, non-surgical options like the gastric balloon can be reversed.
Most patients can return to work and daily activities within 1-2 weeks.
Nutrition begins with a liquid diet, gradually progresses to solid foods, and long-term healthy, balanced eating is important.
Weight loss surgery can be an effective treatment for obesity-related health problems, with long-term benefits for health and quality of life.
Eligibility is assessed based on BMI rather than weight alone, typically a BMI of 40 or 35 and above with related conditions.
Post-operative pain is usually mild to moderate.
People who have clotting disorders, advanced liver or kidney disease, or significant psychological problems may not be suitable candidates.
Sleeve gastrectomy is a long-lasting procedure because a large portion of the stomach is removed.
In general, people with a BMI of 40 or above, or 35 or above with related health problems, may be suitable candidates.
After gastric sleeve, the stomach is reduced to about 20–25% of its original size, typically holding 100-150 ml (around half a cup) of food at one time.
Sleeve gastrectomy is considered as one of the safest options.
Although safety depends on the patient, sleeve gastrectomy is often preferred due to its effectiveness and lower surgical risk.
Gastric bypass is typically considered for patients aged 18–60.
BMI and related health problems are more important than weight alone.
Untreated eating disorders, clotting disorders or cardiovascular problems preventing the use of anaesthesia can disqualify a patient from surgery.
Moderate pain may occur, but it is usually well controlled with modern pain management methods.
