Gastric Bypass Surgery in Turkey
Gastric Bypass, also known as Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass in French, is considered the golden standard of bariatric surgery.
After gastric sleeve surgery, it is the second most common type of weight loss surgeries performed in Turkey and worldwide.
While some weight loss procedures ‘restrict’ the amount you can eat, others reduce the amount of fat as well as calories your body can ‘absorb’ and some combine both techniques.
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass surgery uses both restrictive and malabsorptive bariatric techniques by modifying the stomach and small intestines.
If your excess weight has been negatively affecting your life and you are at a high risk of developing more serious obesity-related health issues, then Gastric Bypass in Turkey can serve as a powerful tool for long-term weight loss!
Average Length of Stay:
7 Nights
Operation Duration:
1.5-2 Hours
Anesthesia:
General
Recovery Duration:
7-10 Days
Expected Weight Loss:
80% of excess weight
What is Gastric Bypass Surgery?
Gastric bypass surgery creates a small stomach pouch and connects it directly to the small intestine, bypassing most of the stomach. This helps with weight loss by:
- Reducing food intake
- Limiting calorie absorption
- Altering gut hormones that control hunger and fullness
The surgery lowers ghrelin, the “hunger hormone,” reducing appetite, and increases hormones like PYY and GLP-1, which promote fullness. These changes help reset the body’s metabolic and digestive systems for better weight management.
How is Gastric Bypass Surgery Performed?
Step-by-Step Surgical Process
1 Step: Preparation Phase
- Administering general anesthesia
- Making laparoscopic incisions and inserting the trocars
- Placing the surgical instruments and camera into the trocars
- Filling the abdomen with CO2 to allow easier access to the surgical area
2 Step: Main Surgical Phase
- Inserting a bougie tube to determine the new size of the stomach
- Dividing the stomach into two parts using a laparoscopic stapler
- Stapling the upper portion of the stomach to create a small pouch, about the size of a golf ball
- Dividing the small intestine into two unequal parts
3 Step: Connection and Closure Phase
- Connecting the lower portion of the small intestine to the newly created stomach pouch
- Reconnecting the upper part of the small intestine (duodenum) to a portion of the lower part of the small intestine (jejunum)
- Removing the surgical instruments and trocars.
- Closing the incisions with stitches
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Who Qualifies for Gastric Bypass Surgery?
Individuals with a BMI of 40 kg/m² or higher, classified as class III obesity.
Individuals who have not achieved successful results in previous medically supervised weight loss attempts.
Individuals with a BMI of 35 or higher with at least one obesity-related health condition (comorbidity) such as; Type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, or hypertension.
Individuals who are physically and mentally prepared to undergo the procedure.
What are the Possible Complications or Risks of Gastric Bypass Surgery?
Infection & Healing
- Infection
- Anastomotic leaks
- Bleeding
Breathing & Digestion
- Breathing problems
- Nausea & vomiting
- Heartburn
- Dumping syndrome
- Bowel obstruction
- Ulcers
Metabolic & Nutritional
- Malnutrition
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
- Vitamin deficiencies
Structural & Surgical
- Blood clots
- Hernia
- Gallstones
What are the Pros & Cons of Gastric Bypass Surgery?
+PROS
- Higher average weight loss compared to gastric sleeve or band.
- Patients can lose up to 80% of excess weight.
- Effective for long-term blood sugar control (Type 2 diabetes remission).
- Most effective for severe acid reflux, bile reflux, and GERD.
- Procedure can be reversed (rarely performed).
- Improves or cures obesity-related health conditions (e.g., sleep apnea, high cholesterol, heart disease).
-CONS
- Risk of dumping syndrome (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, etc.).
- More complex surgery compared to gastric band or sleeve.
- Requires lifelong vitamin and mineral supplements.
- Rapid weight loss may increase the risk of gallstones.
Reasons to Choose Turkey for Gastric Bypass Surgery
Multilingual Staff
Translation services offered by many medical facilities in Turkey play a major role in eliminating any language barriers between bariatric patients and healthcare providers. Effective communication established with international patients will minimize any misunderstandings while ensuring a positive and safe medical tourism experience in Turkey.
Experienced Surgeons
Many Turkish surgeons have international training and certifications, bringing a depth of expertise to various weight-loss procedures such as gastric bypass and gastric sleeve surgery. International patients can rest assured that they will be receiving world-class medical care and successful outcomes.
Shorter Waiting Times
Unlike many countries such as the UK where waiting lists for weight loss surgery can be very long, in Turkey, gastric bypass surgery can often be planned and arranged faster. Being able to start your weight-loss journey without a long wait is one of the greatest advantages Turkey’s healthcare system has to offer!
Affordability Without Compromising Quality
The cost of gastric bypass in Turkey is significantly lower compared to countries such as the UK and the US. This is due to the currency exchange rates, low operating costs, and government incentives. International patients can receive high-quality medical care while saving up to 70% on treatment costs!
Save up to 70% by undergoing Gastric Bypass Surgery in Istanbul, Turkey!
The following table illustrates a cost comparison between Turkey and other countries:
Gastric Bypass Surgery/All-Inclusive Package
- Preoperative examination and assessments
- All medications and 3-night hospital stay
- 4-night hotel stay with nursing care
- Airport-hotel-hospital transportation
- Dietitian support, follow-up, and nutrition plan
- Medical translator and online support group
What are the Pre-Op Preparations for Gastric Bypass Surgery?
Here is a detailed guide on how to prepare for roux-en-y gastric bypass surgery. It’s essential to adhere to these instructions to ensure a smooth and safe surgical experience. The following guidelines should be followed in advance of the procedure:
Before the Surgery
Dietary Restrictions
Remove Adornments
Stop Taking Supplements
Avoid Smoking
No Alcohol
Medication Management
Packing Essentials
Stop Taking Birth Control
The Day of Surgery
Dress Comfortably: On the day of the surgery, patients should wear loose-fitting clothing and comfortable shoes. This will help reduce discomfort after the surgery.
Final Preoperative Evaluation: Upon admission to the hospital, patients will undergo a final preoperative evaluation. This includes:
- Checking your heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and breathing rate
- Measuring your weight
- Checking your oxygen levels
- Attaching an IV (intravenous) drip
- Administering blood-thinning medication
- Administering anesthesia
Gastric bypass surgery in Turkey generally takes between 1.5 to 2 hours to complete, although the total time in the operating room can extend slightly longer. After the surgery, the patient will be taken to a recovery room for close monitoring.
Patients usually spend about 2 nights in the hospital after gastric bypass surgery. On the 3rd day, tests such as a gastrointestinal leak test will be conducted to ensure there are no complications. If all tests are clear, the patient will be discharged and can continue their recovery at the hotel.
By following these guidelines carefully, patients can help ensure a successful surgery and a smooth recovery.
Gastric Bypass Recovery/What to Expect After Gastric Bypass Surgery
After undergoing roux-en-y gastric bypass surgery, patients must be well-prepared for the recovery process. Here’s what to expect:
Postoperative Care and Nutritional Counseling
Before discharge, patients will receive detailed postoperative care instructions and personalized nutritional counseling. This guidance is essential for a smooth recovery and long-term success.
Pain Management
Pain levels after gastric bypass surgery can vary. While most patients find the pain manageable, those experiencing more intense discomfort can be prescribed painkillers by the surgeon. Proper pain management is key to ensuring a comfortable recovery.
Diet Progression
The first ten days after gastric bypass surgery are critical. Patients are required to follow a clear liquid diet during this period to protect the stomach. As patients progress through each dietary stage, they will gradually reintroduce new foods into their diet. This slow and controlled progression is essential for stomach healing and overall recovery.
Long-Term Weight Loss Expectations
By adhering to the surgeon’s and dietitian’s recommendations, patients can expect significant weight loss over time. Within two years, many patients may lose up to 70-80% of their excess body weight, leading to improved health and quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will gastric bypass surgery help me lose weight?
The smaller gastric pouch will enable patients to consume less food and feel more full. As food intake “bypasses” most of the stomach and the small intestine, this will result in lesser calorie and nutrient absorption. Additionally, changes in the gastrointestinal anatomy of overweight diabetic patients will directly influence glucose homeostasis, thus lowering their blood glucose levels.
How much weight will I lose with gastric bypass?
Most patients lose around 75% of their excess weight after gastric bypass surgery.
But some patients who are so strict about their diet and regular exercise lose about 90% of it.
How long is the recovery time after gastric bypass?
Because most gastric bypass surgeries are performed using a laparoscopic method, there are no serious wounds and just some small incisions in the abdominal area. So, you’ll be discharged from the hospital after 2 to 3 days and you can get back to your normal activities within a few weeks, mostly 4 to 6 weeks.
What are the benefits of gastric bypass surgery?
Patients who have a BMI over 40 and cannot lose weight any other way can easily lose a lot of weight in a short time and keep in shape for the rest of their lives. Moreover, all the health issues associated with obesity will be resolved after this surgery, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea syndrome, to name a few.
How long does the surgery take?
Gastric bypass is a more complicated procedure in comparison with gastric sleeve. That’s why it takes about half an hour more. So, the operation takes about 1.5 hours.
Can the gastric bypass surgery be reversed?
It is possible to reverse the surgery, but it is not advised. Reversing the surgery is considered another major procedure and you are at an increased risk for complications. Reversing the surgery also would increase your risk of regaining the weight you have lost.
Please fill out the form to learn if you are a good candidate for weight loss surgery!
We are committed to protecting your privacy.