How Much Does Gastric Sleeve Surgery Cost in Turkey? The Affordable Option for Weight Loss

Losing weight is hard. Most diets don’t work long term or help you make significant changes to your unhealthy habits. That’s where surgery can come in – helping you finally shed those extra pounds for good.

Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as a sleeve gastrectomy, is one of the most popular weight loss procedures worldwide. During the surgery, surgeons remove about 80% of the stomach, leaving a smaller tube-shaped pouch. This limits how much you can eat, leading to feeling full faster and long-term weight loss.

While gastric sleeve surgery can transform lives in many Western countries the high price tag puts it out of reach. Prices in the United States average $17900, while in the United Kingdom it’s around $13,000. But traveling to Turkey can make weight loss surgery much more affordable without sacrificing quality.

Cost of Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Turkey

In Turkey, gastric sleeve surgery costs between $3,250 and $5,500 That’s a fraction of the price compared to the USA and UK – you’ll save tens of thousands of dollars!

Here’s a breakdown of typical gastric sleeve surgery costs in Turkey:

• Surgeon and hospital fees: $1,950 – $2,600
• Anesthesia: $325 – $975
• Medical devices/tools: $975 – $1,300
• Medications and medical tests: $260 – $325
• 5 nights hotel stay: Included
• Ground transportation: Included
• Translation services: Included

So for around $3,500 you get the entire weight loss surgery package – there are no hidden fees or surprise medical bills. Airline tickets are the only other major expense.

Why is Gastric Sleeve Surgery Cheaper in Turkey?

There are a few key reasons bariatric procedures cost much less in Turkey than Western countries:

• Lower cost of living: Staff wages, hospital fees, and medication expenses are lower.
• High competition: Turkey attracts so many foreign patients that clinics compete on price.
• Excellent exchange rate: The Turkish lira exchanges favorably with the US dollar, British pound, and euro. Your money goes further.
• Insurance differences: Turkey’s national healthcare system keeps prices down.
• Package deals: All-inclusive packages with fixed fees eliminate surprise charges.

Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery Quality Lower in Turkey?

Absolutely not! Just because the price is lower doesn’t mean you’ll get subpar care.

Turkey has world-class hospitals, surgeons, and medical technology. Many clinics cater specifically to international patients. English-speaking staff provide excellent customer service from start to finish.

Surgeons must complete rigorous training and perform the procedure frequently to stay skilled. Leading clinics report sleeve gastrectomy success and complication rates equal to or better than Western surgeons.

The Turkish government closely regulates healthcare for residents and visitors. Hospitals must meet stringent safety requirements to earn accreditation.

Choosing the Best Gastric Sleeve Surgeon in Turkey

With so many options, it can get overwhelming deciding on a gastric sleeve surgeon in Turkey. Follow these tips for finding the right fit:

• Check credentials: Look for a board-certified bariatric surgeon with plenty of experience specifically with sleeve gastrectomy.
• Read reviews: Past patients highlight surgeons with good results and bedside manner.
• Compare hospitals: Choose an internationally accredited hospital with modern facilities. JCI accreditation is the gold standard.
• Consider location: Istanbul, Ankara, and Antalya are popular medical tourism destinations. Pick based on sightseeing interests.
• Ask questions: Have a consultation to discuss your medical history and specific needs. Take notes.
• Trust your gut: The right surgeon-patient relationship comes down to personality match and communication style.

Requirements for Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Turkey

To qualify for gastric sleeve surgery in Turkey, you must:

• Have a BMI over 40, or BMI over 35 with obesity-related health problems
• Be between 18 and 65 years old
• Not have uncontrolled psychological conditions
• Be committed to making major diet and lifestyle changes

Some clinics may have additional requirements regarding past weight loss attempts, medical stability, and insurance clearance.

During the process you’ll undergo blood tests, cardiac screening, chest x-rays, and other tests to clear you for surgery.

What’s Included in a Gastric Sleeve Package in Turkey?

Booking an all-inclusive package takes the guesswork out of medical tourism. Here are some features to look for:

• Consultation with your surgeon
• The gastric sleeve operation
• Hospital stay (usually 2 nights)
• Ground transport to/from the airport and hospital
• Translator/concierge services
• 5-7 nights in a 4-star hotel
• In-room nurse care and chef meals
• Medications and post-op instructions
• Lifetime nutrition planning and online follow-up

A bundled package means you pay one set price upfront. The hospital takes care of everything behind the scenes.

Step By Step Guide to Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Turkey

If you decide the affordable pricing and quality care make Turkey the right choice for your weight loss journey, here is a step-by-step overview of what to expect:

1. Research hospitals and surgeons – Browse company websites, read reviews, and interview your top choices.

2. Book your surgical package – Select your hospital, surgeon, and dates. Pay a deposit and arrange financing if needed.

3. Complete pre-op requirements – Have tests done locally and send results to Turkey. Get medical clearance from your family doctor.

4. Make travel arrangements – Book flights for yourself and a companion. Apply for a tourist e-Visa if needed.

5. Have your surgery – Check into the hospital on arrival day. The laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy procedure takes 1-2 hours.

6. Recover in Turkey – Spend 2 nights in the hospital then 5 nights resting in a hotel with a dedicated nurse.

7. Fly home – Receive discharge instructions and fly back to your home country 1 week after surgery.

8. Follow post-op diet – Slowly progress from clear liquids to soft foods over 8 weeks. Take supplements.

9. See results – Over 12-18 months, expect to lose 60-80% of excess body weight. Schedule follow-up appointments.

Be Confident Choosing Gastric Sleeve in Turkey

Losing weight with bariatric surgery can change your health and confidence forever. Cost shouldn’t get in the way of pursuing a healthier you.

With high quality medical care, experienced surgeons, and all-inclusive package pricing under $5,500, Turkey is an excellent destination for affordable gastric sleeve surgery.

Do your research, ask the right questions, and feel secure booking your weight loss procedure. With such massive savings compared to the US and UK, Turkey could be the perfect fit to finally achieve your goals.