In total, you should generally plan to stay in Turkey for around 7-10 days for the entire process, though it could be shorter or longer depending on individual circumstances.

Medical tourism, including for gastric sleeve surgery, is a well-established industry in Turkey. They have a number of internationally accredited hospitals and clinics and skilled surgeons who often have trained in Europe or the United States. However, as with any medical procedure, whether domestic or abroad, there are always risks and considerations to bear in mind. Here are a few factors to consider when thinking about the safety and quality of gastric sleeve surgery in Turkey: Accreditation: Look for hospitals that have international accreditations, such as the Joint Commission International (JCI). This accreditation means the hospital has met high international standards in terms of quality and patient safety. Surgeon’s Experience and Qualifications: Research the qualifications and experience of the surgeon who will be performing the procedure. They should be a qualified bariatric surgeon with significant experience in performing gastric sleeve surgeries. Aftercare: Bariatric surgery requires thorough follow-up care. This includes diet management, exercise regimen, and regular check-ups. You need to ensure you have a clear aftercare plan in place, whether that’s in Turkey or when you return home. Communication: Good communication is essential for your safety and comfort. Make sure the surgeon and healthcare team speak your language and can effectively explain the procedure, risks, aftercare, and answer your questions clearly. Reviews and Recommendations: Look at the reviews and recommendations from people who have undergone gastric sleeve surgery in Turkey. This can give you an idea about the patient satisfaction and service quality. Emergency Protocols: Check the hospital’s emergency protocols and connections with larger facilities in case any complications arise. Travel Considerations: Remember that travelling long distances after surgery can increase the risk of complications such as blood clots. Factor this into your recovery plan and consider travel insurance that covers medical repatriation. Insurance: Check with your health insurance provider to see if they cover procedures overseas, or if any complications arise from the surgery. While Turkey has a reputation for high-quality medical care at lower prices, it’s important to do your research and consider all the factors involved. Speak with your local healthcare provider before making any decisions. As with any medical procedure, there is always an element of risk involved, and it’s important to weigh these against the potential benefits.

Several factors contribute to the lower cost of gastric sleeve and other medical procedures in Turkey: The cost of living and operating a business in Turkey is generally lower than in many Western countries. This means everything from salaries to utilities to administrative costs are less expensive, which can translate into lower costs for medical procedures. Depending on the current exchange rate between your home currency and the Turkish lira, you may find that your money goes a lot further in Turkey.

Gastric sleeve surgery usually takes about one to two hours.

Weight loss varies by individual, but on average, patients lose 50-70% of their excess body weight within two years of the procedure.

Turkey has become a popular destination for medical tourism, including bariatric surgery like the gastric sleeve procedure, due to several factors:

1. Cost: The cost of medical procedures, including gastric sleeve surgery, is often significantly lower in Turkey than in countries like the U.S. or those in Western Europe, even when accounting for travel expenses.

2. Quality of Care: Turkey is home to numerous JCI-accredited hospitals. JCI, or Joint Commission International, is a recognized leader in international health care accreditation. This suggests that these hospitals meet high standards for patient care and safety.

3. Skilled Surgeons: Many Turkish doctors and surgeons have received training in the U.S. or Europe, and they are often well-versed in the latest surgical techniques.

4. Comprehensive Packages: Many Turkish hospitals offer comprehensive packages for international patients that include not just the procedure itself, but also accommodation, transfers, and sometimes even sightseeing opportunities, which make the whole process easier and more comfortable.

5. Technological Advancements: Turkey’s health care system has advanced rapidly, and many of their hospitals are equipped with the latest medical technology. However, while these are compelling reasons to consider Turkey for gastric sleeve surgery, it’s important to do thorough research before deciding. Patients should confirm the credentials of the healthcare professionals involved, the standards of the clinic or hospital where the surgery will take place, and be aware of the potential risks and complications involved. It’s also important to remember that follow-up care is crucial for a procedure like this, and needs to be considered in the decision. As always, it’s recommended to discuss these matters with your local healthcare provider before making a decision.