Gastric bypass surgery is a highly effective procedure designed to reduce the stomach’s size, limiting the amount of food you can eat. It’s an invasive surgery. Studies show that a gastric bypass can lead to 60-80% of excess body weight loss. However, when done improperly, the risks can be severe, with complications sometimes leading to serious health issues or even death.

Gastric Bypass Surgery in Turkey costs €3250, making it significantly more affordable than many other countries while maintaining high standards of care.

The cost of gastric bypass surgery in Turkey can vary depending on several factors, including the hospital or clinic’s reputation, the quality of the equipment used, and the surgeon’s experience. Factors such as pre-surgery consultations, aftercare, and additional services like accommodation for international patients can also affect the price.

Success Rate

Gastric bypass surgery is known for its high success rate in achieving long-term weight loss. Studies show that the procedure has a success rate of around 80%, with most patients losing 60-80% of their excess body weight within the first 12-18 months.

Patient Satisfaction

Patient satisfaction is also notably high, with surveys reporting a satisfaction rate of over 85%. Many patients not only experience significant weight loss but also improvements in obesity-related conditions like diabetes and hypertension, further contributing to the overall positive outcomes.

The recovery process after gastric bypass surgery can vary, but typically, patients can expect to return to normal daily activities within 4-6 weeks. Full recovery can take several months.

Gastric Bypass Surgery 1 Week Post Op

One week after surgery, you’ll still be in the early stages of recovery. Most patients experience some discomfort, but this can be managed with prescribed pain relief. You’ll be on a liquid diet, as your digestive system needs healing time. It’s essential to avoid strenuous activities and get plenty of rest to support your recovery.

Gastric Bypass Surgery 3 Weeks Post Op

By the third week, many patients start transitioning to pureed foods and can move around more comfortably. You may notice an improvement in your energy levels, but it’s important to stick to light activities and avoid heavy lifting. Follow-up appointments during this time are crucial to monitor your progress.

Gastric Bypass Surgery 4 Weeks Post Op

You’ll likely start introducing soft foods into your diet at four weeks post-op, gradually working toward more solid foods. Many patients report noticeable weight loss by this point. Focusing on small, nutrient-rich meals and maintaining hydration to support your body’s recovery is essential.

Gastric Bypass Surgery 3 Months Post Op

Three months after surgery, most patients see significant weight loss, often 20-30% of excess body weight. You’ll be able to eat more solid foods but must continue to prioritize small portion sizes and protein-rich meals. Exercise like walking or light strength training can also boost weight loss and overall health.

Gastric Bypass Surgery 6 Months Post Op

Patients typically have lost 50-60% of their excess weight at the six-month mark. This is a crucial time for adjusting to a new lifestyle, focusing on balanced meals and regular exercise. Many of the health issues related to obesity, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, may have significantly improved or resolved by now.

Gastric Bypass Surgery 10 Years Later

A decade after surgery, many patients maintain a long-term weight loss of around 50-60% of their initial excess weight. Those who stick to healthy eating habits and regular physical activity succeed most. Additionally, many continue to enjoy lasting improvements in overall health, including reduced risks of heart disease and diabetes.

Gastric Bypass Surgery 20 Years Later

Twenty years post-op, gastric bypass patients who maintain a healthy lifestyle can continue to experience lasting benefits. Studies suggest that 30-50% of the weight loss can be maintained over this extended period. A lifelong commitment to balanced nutrition and physical activity remains essential to avoid weight regain and improve overall health.

Several types of gastric bypass surgeries exist, each designed to achieve significant weight loss by altering the digestive system. Below are three of the most common types.

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB)

Roux-en-Y is the most common type of gastric bypass surgery. It involves creating a small stomach pouch and rerouting the small intestine to this pouch, bypassing most of the stomach and part of the intestines. This significantly limits food intake and reduces calorie absorption, leading to substantial weight loss. It’s considered the gold standard for long-term weight loss.

Mini-Gastric Bypass (MGB)

Mini-gastric bypass is a simpler and quicker procedure than Roux-en-Y. It also creates a smaller stomach pouch but bypasses a longer section of the intestine, further reducing calorie absorption. The risk of complications is lower, and recovery time is shorter, making it an attractive option for many patients.

Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS)

This procedure is more complex and involves removing a large portion of the stomach and bypassing most of the intestines. It offers the most significant weight loss potential but also comes with higher risks of nutrient deficiencies due to extensive calorie and nutrient malabsorption. BPD/DS is usually reserved for patients with a BMI of 50 or higher.

Gastric bypass surgery involves steps, from initial consultation to long-term follow-up, to ensure the procedure’s success and the patient’s safety.

Consultation

The process begins with a consultation where you’ll discuss your medical history, weight loss goals, and the suitability of gastric bypass surgery with a bariatric surgeon. During this visit, the surgeon will explain the surgery’s risks, benefits, and expected outcomes, helping you make an informed decision.

Medical Test

Before the surgery, you will undergo a series of medical tests to ensure you are fit for the procedure. These tests often include blood work, heart evaluations, and sometimes imaging tests to check the condition of your digestive system. The goal is to ensure no underlying health issues complicate the surgery or recovery.

Surgery

The surgery itself typically takes 2-3 hours and is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon creates a small stomach pouch and reroutes part of the small intestine to it, reducing the amount of food you can eat and the calories absorbed. The procedure can often be laparoscopically, meaning smaller incisions and a quicker recovery.

Recovery

After surgery, you’ll spend 1-2 days in the hospital for monitoring. In the first few weeks, you will follow a liquid and soft food diet to allow your stomach and digestive system to heal. Light activities are encouraged, but you must avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for at least six weeks.

Follow-Up

Follow-up care is crucial for long-term success. You’ll have regular check-ups with your surgeon and dietitian to monitor your weight loss progress, check for complications, and adjust your diet plan. Lifelong follow-up may be necessary to ensure nutritional health, as vitamin and mineral deficiencies can occur after gastric bypass surgery.

• Nutrient deficiencies (e.g., vitamin B12, iron, calcium)
• Dumping syndrome, causing nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea after eating
• Gallstones due to rapid weight loss
• Infection at the incision site or within the abdomen
• Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism)
• Bowel obstruction from scar tissue or changes in the intestines
• Ulcers in the stomach or small intestine
• Hernias at the incision or around the surgical site
• Chronic nausea or vomiting due to changes in the digestive system
• Excess skin after significant weight loss, which may require further surgery

Step 1: Research and Choose a Clinic

Start by researching reputable bariatric clinics or hospitals in Istanbul. Look for facilities with experienced surgeons, high success rates, and positive patient reviews. It is essential to choose a clinic that offers comprehensive services, including pre-surgery evaluations, post-op care, and follow-up consultations.

Step 2: Initial Consultation

Once you’ve selected a clinic, schedule an initial consultation in person or virtually. During this consultation, the surgeon will review your medical history, discuss your weight loss goals, and determine if you’re a good candidate for gastric bypass surgery. You’ll also get an overview of the procedure and what to expect.

Step 3: Pre-Surgery Medical Tests

Before the surgery, you’ll need to undergo medical tests, such as blood work, an ECG, and possibly imaging tests like ultrasounds, to ensure you’re fit for surgery. These tests are crucial to assess your overall health and reduce the risk of complications during surgery.

Step 4: Travel and Accommodation

Plan your trip to Istanbul by booking flights and accommodation close to your chosen clinic. Many clinics offer medical tourism packages that include airport transfers, accommodation, and assistance throughout your stay, making the process easier for international patients.

Step 5: Surgery Day

You’ll be admitted to the clinic or hospital on the day of surgery. The gastric bypass surgery will be performed under general anesthesia and typically lasts 2-3 hours. After the procedure, you’ll stay in the hospital for 1-2 days for monitoring.

Step 6: Post-Op Recovery

After discharge, you must follow a strict post-op diet, starting with liquids and gradually progressing to solid foods. You’ll be advised to take it easy, avoid strenuous activities, and stay in Istanbul for a few days to attend follow-up appointments and ensure a smooth recovery.

Step 7: Follow-Up Care

Once you return home, stay in close contact with your surgeon for regular follow-up consultations. These may be done virtually to monitor your recovery and long-term weight loss progress. You’ll also be advised on dietary supplements and lifestyle changes to maintain your health post-surgery.

Check Surgeon’s Credentials

Verify the surgeon’s qualifications and experience. Look for board-certified bariatric surgeons with extensive experience performing gastric bypass surgeries. Memberships in professional associations like the Turkish Society for Bariatric Surgery or the International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity (IFSO) are also important.

Look at Patient Testimonials

Patient testimonials and before-and-after results can offer valuable insights into the surgeon’s success rate and patient satisfaction. Check platforms like Google reviews, Trustpilot, or specialized medical forums to see what other patients have experienced.

Ask About Cost and Packages

Finally, inquire about the cost of the surgery and whether the clinic offers all-inclusive packages for international patients. These packages often include the procedure, accommodation, airport transfers, and follow-up care, making the process smoother and more cost-effective.

• People who are ready to have new dietary habits. 
• People who are overweight.
• People between 35 and 40 in the body mass index. 
• People who want to reduce the risk of triglycerides and high blood cholesterol.  
• People who have disrupted sleep and obstructive sleep apnea. 
• People who want to relieve Gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD). 
• People who wish to lower joint and back pains as well as knee damages. 
• People who want to reduce the risk of having venous thromboembolic.

Your first one-on-one session with the surgeon will be done online, and when you visit Luna clinic, you will have another face-to-face session with your surgeon.

Preparation for a Gastric Bypass Surgery involves dieting that lasts for only two weeks before your surgery date. Patients are required to adhere to this preparation guideline as it helps reduce calories. As you will be dieting, you will be required to have lean protein such as vegetables and low- or no-calorie fluids.

Luna Clinic surgeons have mastered the craft of performing Gastric Bypass surgery. And many other procedures for weight loss. Surgeons at Luna Clinic have performed over a 100s of successful Gastric Sleeve Surgery. Before you commit to having surgery at our clinic, you will be shown the pictures of our previous clients from different countries. And if it helps you feel comfortable, we will give you their contact details.

What is gastric bypass surgery?

Gastric bypass surgery reduces the size of the stomach and reroutes a portion of the small intestine to limit food intake and calorie absorption, resulting in significant weight loss.

How long does gastric bypass surgery take?

The surgery typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on the case’s complexity.

How much weight can I lose with gastric bypass surgery?

On average, patients can lose 60-80% of their excess body weight within the first 12-18 months after surgery.

Who is eligible for gastric bypass surgery?

Candidates usually have a BMI of 40 or higher or a BMI of 35+ with obesity-related health conditions, such as diabetes or hypertension.

Is gastric bypass surgery safe?

Yes, gastric bypass surgery is considered safe when performed by an experienced surgeon, though, like any surgery, it carries some risks of complications.

What are the risks of gastric bypass surgery?

Potential risks include infection, blood clots, bowel obstruction, nutrient deficiencies, and dumping syndrome.

How long is the recovery after gastric bypass surgery?

Most patients can return to normal activities within 4-6 weeks, though full recovery may take longer.

Will I need to take vitamins after gastric bypass surgery?

Yes, you will need to take vitamin and mineral supplements throughout your life to prevent deficiencies, especially vitamin B12, iron, calcium, and vitamin D.

How long will I be in the hospital after gastric bypass surgery?

Typically, patients stay in the hospital for monitoring and recovery for 1-2 days after the surgery.

When can I start eating solid foods after gastric bypass surgery?

After surgery, you’ll start with a liquid diet and gradually move to pureed, soft, and then solid foods over several weeks.

Will I have excess skin after gastric bypass surgery?

Significant weight loss can result in excess skin, which may require additional procedures, like skin removal surgery.

Can gastric bypass surgery cure diabetes?

For many patients, gastric bypass surgery can lead to remission of type 2 diabetes, significantly improving blood sugar control.

How much does gastric bypass surgery cost in Turkey?

Gastric Bypass Surgery in Turkey costs €3250, depending on the clinic and surgeon.

Is gastric bypass surgery reversible?

While technically possible, reversing gastric bypass surgery is complex and usually only done in rare cases of severe complications.

How soon can I exercise after gastric bypass surgery?

You can start light activities such as walking soon after surgery, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least 6 weeks.

How long do the results of gastric bypass surgery last?

With proper diet and lifestyle changes, the results of gastric bypass surgery can be long-lasting, with many patients maintaining 50-60% of weight loss after 10 years.

Can I get pregnant after gastric bypass surgery?

Yes, but it’s recommended to wait at least 12-18 months after surgery before becoming pregnant to ensure your body has fully healed.

What is dumping syndrome?

Dumping syndrome occurs when food moves too quickly into the small intestine, causing nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dizziness after eating.

How does gastric bypass surgery affect digestion?

The surgery changes how your body digests food, leading to reduced calorie absorption and changes in nutrient absorption, which is why lifelong supplements are needed.

How do I prepare for gastric bypass surgery?

You will likely need to follow a pre-surgery diet, stop smoking, and undergo medical tests to ensure you are fit for the procedure.

How do I find the best surgeon for gastric bypass in Turkey?

Look for a surgeon who is board-certified, experienced, and has positive patient reviews. Also, check for clinics with international accreditations.

Can I regain weight after gastric bypass surgery?

While gastric bypass is highly effective, some patients may experience weight regain if they don’t follow the recommended diet and lifestyle changes.

Does gastric bypass surgery leave scars?

If the surgery is done laparoscopically, it usually leaves small, minimal scars, but open surgery may leave larger ones.

Will I need follow-up care after gastric bypass surgery?

Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor your progress, ensure proper nutrition, and check for complications.

What is the difference between gastric bypass and gastric sleeve surgery?

Gastric bypass involves reducing stomach size and rerouting the intestines, while gastric sleeve involves reducing the stomach without altering the intestines.

Can gastric bypass surgery improve sleep apnea?

Yes, significant weight loss from gastric bypass can improve or resolve sleep apnea in many patients.

What lifestyle changes are required after gastric bypass surgery?

To maintain your results, you’ll need to adopt a healthy diet, take lifelong supplements, engage in regular physical activity, and attend follow-up appointments.