Gastric sleeve surgery has become one of the most popular bariatric procedures globally, and gastric sleeve Turkey continues to attract patients from Europe, the UK, the Middle East, and beyond. A combination of highly trained surgeons, modern hospitals, all-inclusive care packages, and lower prices has helped Turkey become a medical tourism hub for weight loss surgery. Clinics such as the one led by Op. Dr. Volkan Arayıcı in İzmir showcase Turkey’s strong reputation in this field.
This article explains what gastric sleeve surgery is, why patients choose gastric sleeve in Turkey, how much it typically costs, what to look for in a clinic, and how to find the best gastric sleeve clinic in Turkey for your needs.
What Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Turkey?
Gastric sleeve in Turkey refers to sleeve gastrectomy performed in Turkish hospitals and surgical centres. It is a bariatric procedure designed to help people with obesity lose weight by reducing the size of the stomach. During the surgery, a large portion of the stomach is removed, leaving a smaller, tube-like stomach. This limits food intake and decreases hunger hormones, especially ghrelin.
Most gastric sleeve procedures in Turkey are done laparoscopically, which means the surgeon uses small incisions and camera-guided instruments. This minimally invasive approach reduces pain, shortens hospital stays, and accelerates recovery compared with traditional open surgery. Patients are usually able to walk within hours after the surgery, stay in the hospital for a few days, and return to normal life over the next few weeks.
For medical tourism, it is crucial that the clinic and the doctor are highly experienced and that the doctor uses top-quality materials during surgery. We can also mention the importance of patients being able to easily communicate with their doctor whenever they wish after returning to their home country.
We can mention that cheap clinics employ inexperienced doctors and use low-quality materials. We can state that cheap clinics should be avoided.
Why Choose Gastric Sleeve in Turkey?
Turkey’s popularity as a destination for bariatric surgery, including gastric sleeve in Turkey, is based on a few clear advantages.
High-Quality Surgical Expertise
Many Turkish surgeons, including Dr. Arayıcı, are trained internationally and specialize in bariatric procedures. These surgeons perform laparoscopic gastric sleeve operations routinely and follow global medical standards to ensure patient safety and good outcomes.
Modern Hospitals and Accredited Facilities
Hospitals and clinics in Turkey are equipped with up-to-date surgical technology, intensive care units, and strict hygiene protocols. Many facilities cater specifically to international patients, offering multilingual staff, dedicated coordinators, and personalised care plans.
Comprehensive Medical Tourism Support
Most clinics offering gastric sleeve Turkey packages include airport transfers, hotel accommodation, interpreter services, pre- and post-operative care, and aftercare guidance. This structured support helps patients travel for surgery with confidence, even if they have never had a medical procedure abroad before.
Cost Savings Without Sacrificing Quality
One of the most compelling reasons patients choose Turkey for gastric sleeve surgery is value. Procedures can cost significantly less than in many Western countries while still being delivered in accredited hospitals.
Gastric Sleeve Turkey Cost: What to Expect
Understanding the gastric sleeve Turkey cost helps you plan your budget and compare options effectively.
Typical Cost Range in Turkey
The price of gastric sleeve surgery in Turkey varies, but most packages fall within a competitive range:
- Standard all-inclusive packages: Often €2,700–€5,000 for the entire treatment package, including hospital stay, surgery, pre- and post-op care, and transfers.
- Dr. Volkan Arayıcı’s clinic: A typical all-inclusive price is about £3,000 (around €3,500) with no hidden fees. This covers consultations, surgery, hospital stay, medication, post-operative check-ups, transfers, and accommodation.
How Prices Compare Internationally
To put the gastric sleeve Turkey cost in perspective:
- In the UK and Western Europe, prices for the same procedure often range from €9,000 to €15,000 or more.
- In the United States, costs can exceed €14,000–€28,000 when factoring all services.
That means even with travel and accommodation costs, many patients still save a significant amount compared with having surgery at home.
What’s Usually Included
Most reputable clinics bundle the following in their pricing:
- Pre-operative exams and tests
- Surgeon and anesthesia fees
- Hospital stay (usually 2–3 nights)
- Post-operative care and medication
- Hotel accommodation
- Airport and clinic transfers
- Aftercare support
Transparent, all-inclusive packages help avoid unexpected extra charges and make budgeting simpler.
Eligibility for Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Turkey
Before surgery, clinics determine eligibility based on international standards. Typical criteria include:
- A Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 or higher
- A BMI of 30–35 with weight-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes or hypertension
- A history of repeated, unsuccessful weight-loss efforts through diet and exercise
During consultations, your health history, lifestyle, and weight-loss goals are reviewed to ensure the surgery is appropriate and safe.
Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Gastric sleeve Turkey is widely chosen because it can deliver meaningful health improvements:
Significant Weight Loss
Most patients lose a large percentage of their excess body weight within the first year after surgery, especially when they follow prescribed dietary and fitness guidance.
Improvement in Obesity-Related Conditions
Many health issues linked to obesity, including type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, often improve significantly or even resolve after substantial weight loss.
Reduced Appetite
By removing the part of the stomach that produces the hunger hormone ghrelin, many patients report decreased appetite after the surgery, which supports easier portion control and healthier eating habits.
Risks and Considerations of Gastric Sleeve in Turkey
Like all major surgeries, gastric sleeve in Turkey comes with potential risks and considerations:
Surgical Risks
Although uncommon, complications such as infection, bleeding, or adverse reactions to anesthesia can occur. These risks are reduced in accredited hospitals with experienced surgical teams.
Nutritional Changes
Because part of the stomach is removed, patients often require lifelong vitamin and mineral supplementation and must follow dietary guidelines strictly.
Lifestyle Commitment
Success depends on long-term changes in eating habits, physical activity, and routine medical follow-up to maximize weight-loss outcomes and avoid complications.
Finding the Best Gastric Sleeve Clinic in Turkey
Choosing the best gastric sleeve clinic in Turkey is as important as understanding the procedure itself. Here’s what to look for:
Surgeon Qualifications
A top clinic should be transparent about its surgeons’ credentials, experience, and surgical volumes. Specialization in bariatric surgery is key.
Facility Standards
Accredited hospitals with modern operating theatres, intensive care units, and strict hygiene protocols provide a safer environment for complex procedures.
Full Support Services
From the first consultation to aftercare once you return home, clinics that offer comprehensive support help ensure a smoother journey and better long-term results.
Patient Reviews and Transparency
Look for case studies and testimonials from past patients. Independent reviews from forums and shared experiences can offer insights into clinic quality and patient satisfaction.
Dr. Volkan Arayıcı’s clinic in İzmir is often mentioned in this context for providing personalised care and transparent pricing, making it a strong example of what patients seek in a best gastric sleeve clinic in Turkey.
The Gastric Sleeve Surgery Process in Turkey
Here’s what patients typically experience when they fly to Turkey for gastric sleeve surgery:
Before Arrival
Initial online consultations, medical assessments, and planning are done. Patients receive instructions on travel and preparation.
Arrival and Pre-Op Checks
Upon arrival in Turkey, patients undergo pre-operative evaluations and meet the medical team.
Surgery Day
The laparoscopic gastric sleeve procedure typically takes about 45–60 minutes under general anesthesia.
Recovery and Follow-Up
Patients stay in the hospital for a few days for monitoring and initial recovery. Before traveling home, they receive guidance on diet, medication, and activity. Aftercare plans may include virtual check-ins once they return home.
Final Thoughts on Gastric Sleeve in Turkey
Gastric sleeve Turkey remains a compelling option for people seeking effective, medically supervised weight-loss surgery abroad. With competitive gastric sleeve Turkey cost, experienced surgical teams, and a structured support system for international patients, Turkey provides a balance of quality and affordability. Clinics such as Dr. Volkan Arayıcı’s in İzmir are examples of how patients can access bariatric surgery with clear pricing and personalised care.
When considering this option, always prioritise safety, credentials, and comprehensive aftercare over cost alone, and consult professionals to make an informed choice that aligns with your health goals.