What Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Gastric sleeve surgery — medically known as sleeve gastrectomy — is a bariatric (weight loss) surgical procedure in which approximately 75–80% of the stomach is permanently removed. The remaining stomach forms a narrow, sleeve-shaped tube.
The significantly smaller stomach holds less food, which reduces calorie intake. The procedure also affects the production of ghrelin — the hormone primarily responsible for hunger — which many patients describe as one of the most meaningful changes after surgery.
The surgery is performed laparoscopically (using small keyhole incisions) under general anaesthesia. It is not reversible. The removed portion of the stomach cannot be reattached.
How the Surgery Is Performed
The surgical team makes several small incisions in the abdomen. A laparoscope (a thin camera) is inserted to guide the procedure. The surgeon removes the majority of the stomach and uses surgical staples to close the remaining sleeve-shaped portion.
The procedure typically takes between 60 and 90 minutes. After surgery, patients are transferred to the hospital ward for monitoring and recovery.
Why Turkey for Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Turkey — and Istanbul in particular — has developed a strong reputation for bariatric surgery among international patients. The reasons include:
- ✓Significant cost advantage — the same hospital-standard surgery at a fraction of UK or European prices, due to structural economic differences rather than any compromise in medical quality.
- ✓Experienced bariatric surgeons — Istanbul's bariatric teams perform high volumes of gastric sleeve procedures and are experienced in treating international patients.
- ✓Complete patient coordination — transfers, accommodation, interpretation, pre-operative testing and aftercare are all handled within the package.
- ✓Efficient travel plan — most patients plan 3 nights and 4 days in total, which fits well with the schedules of working patients from the UK and Europe.
What the Surgical Process Includes
Every patient goes through a structured process. Pre-operative testing is mandatory and takes place before surgery is confirmed and carried out. This includes blood tests, an ECG and a chest X-ray, as well as consultations with both the surgeon and the anaesthesia team.
After surgery, patients remain in hospital for monitoring. A leak test is performed before discharge. Patients then spend a night at the arranged hotel before flying home, with written discharge instructions and a personalised diet plan.
Important: Gastric sleeve surgery is a significant medical procedure. Final suitability is confirmed through a medical evaluation — not assumed from BMI alone. Please send your details for an individual assessment.