Affordable Weight Loss Surgery in Turkey
Obesity is a global concern.[1] And, weight loss surgery in Turkey can be an affordable solution for those in need. Want to slim down with a whopping 70% savings? Read our guide on bariatric surgery in Turkey for the essential trip and WLS info.
Obesity Surgery in Turkey - Patient Testimonial
Turkey is one of the top 10 countries where British citizens get medical treatments.[2]
Did you know?
It is also a top destination for low-cost & high-quality bariatric surgeries?[3]
Every year, millions of medical tourists come here for treatments.[4] Curious about why Turkey is their top choice for bariatric medical tourism? Let’s explore.
Benefits of Weight Loss Surgery in Turkey
Bariatric surgery in Turkey is an option worth considering for many reasons. Let's delve a bit deeper into them.
Weight loss surgery in Turkey can allow you to save up to 60-70% on your medical procedure.
Our partner bariatric surgery clinics in Turkey are JCI accredited, as your safety and comfort are our top priorities.
Our Turkey weight loss surgeons are board-certified professionals with experience of over 10 years.
- Turkey is a developed and well-connected country.
- It is easily accessible from many major and minor cities in the world.
- Turkey is a beautiful country; it has everything from ancient ruins to vibrant nightlife.
- Not to mention the diverse range of delicacies you can try in Turkey.
Now if you are wondering how much is weight loss surgery in Turkey? Read ahead.
Cost of Weight Loss Surgery in Turkey
Bariatric surgery in Turkey is up to 73% less than in the UK. For instance, a gastric sleeve cost in Turkey begins at £2,750/$3,420. While in the UK, it can be as high as £10,000/$12,440. So, your savings can be 72% with travel costs included.
Similarly, a gastric bypass in Turkey costs around £3,500/$4,350. Compared to the UK, these prices are 56% cheaper. For more clarity, refer to the Weight Loss Surgery Turkey Pricelist 2023 below.
| Procedure | Turkey | UK | Savings |
| Gastric Sleeve | £2,750/$3,420 | £10,000/$12,440 | 72% |
| Gastric Bypass | £3,500/$4,350 | £8,000/$9,950 | 56% |
| Gastric Balloon (12 months) | £2,000/$2,490 | £6,000/$7,470 | 67% |
| Mini Gastric Bypass | £4,235/$5,270 | £8,000/$9,950 | 47% |
| Adjustable Silicone Gastric Band | £2,100/$2,610 | £6,000/$7,470 | 65% |
| Robotic Gastric Sleeve Surgery | £6,500/$8,090 | £12,050/$15000 | 46% |
| Stomach Botox Surgery | £1,200/$1,500 | £4,500/$5,600 | 73% |
*Bariatric surgery prices in Turkey are case-dependent.
Thus, you can save thousands of dollars with weight loss surgeries in Turkey. Furthermore, a self-pay bariatric surgery is a practical option to avoid long waiting times in your country.
All-Inclusive Weight Loss Surgery Package in Turkey
If you travel from the UK, consider the affordable bariatric surgery package in Turkey. It includes the following:
- Surgeon’s fee & hospital stay
- Pre-op & post-op tests
- Medicines & lab work
- Aftercare/nutrition
- Travel assistance
- Ground transfers
Want a free price quote for all-inclusive WLS in Turkey? Now you know why WLS is an excellent option for medical tourism in Turkey. Let’s see how to pay for the surgery.
Turkey Weight Loss Surgery Payment Options
- Cash, cards
- Bank transfers
- Checks
- SuperMoney
After choosing WLS in Turkey, the next step is finding the top hospital and surgeon. In the next section, let’s explore renowned weight loss surgery clinics in Turkey.
Best Hospital for Weight Loss Surgery in Turkey
At MTC, our utmost priority is your safety and comfort. That is why we have partnered exclusively with hospitals accredited by JCI and ISO to ensure the highest standards of care. So have a look at some of the best hospitals for your obesity surgery in Turkey (Istanbul, Antalya and Eskişehir).
Klinik Mavi is a leading bariatric surgery clinic in Eskisehir, Turkey, accredited by TTB and the IFSO.
The clinic's team includes two experienced bariatric surgeons, a dietitian, and a medical secretary.
With over 25 years of experience, the surgeons have performed thousands of obesity and cancer surgeries.
They have achieved up to a 90% success rate in treating type 2 diabetes.
Klinik Mavi partners with Eskisehir hospitals. It has a branch in Antalya, serving patients from Europe, the Commonwealth, and Arab League States.
- IFSO Accreditation
- TTB Accreditation
- Klinik Mavi is a modern Obesity Bariatric Surgery Clinic in Eskişehir, Turkey.
- They have accreditations from:
- IFSO (International)
- TTB (National)
- The surgeons are highly qualified and have over 12 years of experience.
Memorial Antalya Hospital, founded in 2010, is AHA and ISO certified, with 114 patient beds and 28 ICU beds.
It has five state-of-the-art operating theaters that support advanced procedures. This attracts patients from 92 countries and enhances Turkey's health tourism.
- ISO Accredited
- AHA Certified
- 14+ Years of Experience
- Memorial hospital Turkey is one of the best hospitals in Turkey.
- They have been accredited by JCI and ISO.
- Memorial uses advanced technologies like detailed health monitors, ultrasounds, and electrosurgical units to ensure everything goes well.
This JCI-accredited international hospital in Turkey is one of the first outside the U.S. to obtain the SRC's Center of Excellence Accreditation.
With modern medical departments and advanced technologies, it has established itself as a global medical hub.
- 10+ Years of Experience
- JCI Accreditted
- ISO Certified
- Established in 2013, LIV Hospital is JCI and TUV Nord Cert ISO 9001 accredited.
- It is also accredited as a Center of Excellence in robotic surgery, bariatric surgery and colorectal surgery by SRC.
- They operate in major Turkish cities: Istanbul, Ankara, and Samsun.
You can rest assured that you will get the best treatment. Next, let’s look at the WLS surgeons who will treat you here.
Top 5 Bariatric Surgeons in Turkey
At MTC, we have partnered with some of the best bariatric surgeons in Turkey. They are board-certified individuals who have gained expertise in bariatric surgeries over years of experience. Mentioned below are their profiles. Have a look:
Dr. İbrahim Karatas( Dr. Ibrahim Karatas )
Dr. Ibrahim Karatas is a leading general and bariatric surgeon in Istanbul, Turkey. He has performed 2,500+ sleeve gastrectomy and 650+ type 2 diabetes surgeries successfully.
He uses Tri-Stapler and V-Lock Technology, ensuring safer outcomes for his patients. As a member of IFSO, ESPEN, and IBC, he is a trusted choice for international patients.
Education
Çukurova University Faculty of Medicine
Memberships
- Turkish Obesity Surgery Society (TOSS)
- International Bariatric Club (IBC)
- Turkish Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (BCMD)
Prof. Halil Coskun( Memorial Hospital )
Prof. Dr. Halil Coşkun is a specialist in Obesity and Metabolic Surgery, as well as an academician.
Prof. Dr. Halil Coşkun became an associate professor in 2010 by the Interuniversity Council. In 2015, he was awarded the title of professor at Sanko Vakıf University for his academic work.
Education
Ankara University Faculty of Medicine
Memberships
- Turkish Surgery Association (TCD)
- Turkish Obesity Surgery Association (TOSS)
- International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO)
Dr. Alper Hacıoğlu( Klinik Mavi Eskisehir )
Dr. Alper Hacıoğlu is a renowned bariatric surgeon in Eskisehir, Turkey.
He served as Assistant Professor, Deputy Chief Physician, and Deputy Dean at Kütahya Dumlupınar University Faculty of Medicine.
He also worked as a General Surgery Specialist and Supervisor at Eskişehir State Hospital and Private Ümit Batıkent Hospital.
Education
Faculty of Medicine, Osmangazi University, Eskisehir, Turkey
Memberships
- Diabetes, Obesity, and Nutrition Association
- Obesity Research Association of Turkey
Dr. Müslüm Tarkan( Klinik Mavi Eskisehir )
Dr. Müslüm specializes in General Surgery and has received training in Bariatric Metabolic and Laparoscopic Surgery.
During his residency, he engaged in both scientific and practical training in these areas.
He has worked at various Ministry of Health units, including Tunceli, Eskişehir State Hospital, and Private Ümit Batıkent Hospital.
Education
Faculty of Medicine at Dicle University, Diyarbakır, Turkey
Memberships
- Turkish Bariatric Surgery Association
- International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders
Prof. Alper Yurci( Memorial Hospital )
Prof. Dr. Alper Yurci is a specialist in Gastroenterology in Turkey. He focuses on advanced endoscopic procedures and liver diseases, including viral hepatitis.
Education
Istanbul University, Faculty Of Medicine
Weight Loss Surgery in Turkey Reviews
Bariatric Surgery in Turkey - Patient Testimonial
Annette TerryBariatric Surgery, Turkey
From the UK, they looked after me impeccably. Highly recommend for professional care.
Baris BeserBariatric Surgery, Turkey
A unique hospital with perfect hospitality. Clean, hygienic rooms; feels like a 5-star hotel!
Ceren UygutBariatric Surgery, Turkey
I had a weight problem & they performed bariatric surgery. It has been 8 months and I am very satisfied with the result.
Confident about the quality of treatment you'll get in Turkey? Let's learn more about the procedure and its types in the next section.
Weight Loss Surgery Explained
Bariatric procedures focus on reducing the stomach size so one eats less but feels full.
After surgery, the food you eat will bypass some parts of your stomach and small intestine that absorb food.
Less food consumption and thereby less nutrient absorption leads to weight loss.
Now, let's explore the different types of weight loss surgeries in Turkey.
Popular Bariatric Surgeries in Turkey
Below, we discuss the common weight loss surgeries performed in Turkey.
Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Turkey
About 80% of your stomach is removed, and the edges of the remaining 20% are stapled.[5]
Turkey gastric sleeve savings: 72%
Gastric Bypass in Turkey
It reduces the stomach size by rerouting the digestive system to limit food absorption.[6]
Turkey RYGB savings: 56%
Gastric Balloon in Turkey
In this procedure, saline-filled silicone balloon is placed in the stomach to reduce appetite & promote eating less.[7]
Turkey IGB savings: 67%
Gastric Band in Turkey
It involves placing a stomach band to create a small food pouch. It induces fullness with smaller portions.[8]
Turkey gastric band savings: 65%
Mini Gastric Bypass in Turkey
It is similar to a gastric bypass. However, the main difference is that it makes the stomach much smaller & reroutes the small intestine.
Turkey MGB savings: 47%
Stomach Botox Surgery in Turkey
Also called Gastric Botox or Botox injection for weight loss, it is a procedure that involves injecting Botox into the stomach muscles.[9]
Turkey Gastric Botox savings: 73%
Robotic Bariatric Surgery in Turkey
Robotic surgery is a safe and effective choice for primary and revisional bariatric procedures.[10]
Our Turkish bariatric surgeons perform robotic weight loss surgeries using Da Vinci Robotic Technology or equivalent technology. They have received specialized training to use this technology. With robotic WLS, you can get the following advantages:[11]
- Reduced risk of surgical complications, such as leaks and bleeding
- Shorter operating time, and
- Shorter hospital stays.
Robotic Weight Loss Surgery in Turkey
So, what is the best surgery in Turkey for weight loss?
The best weight loss surgery method in Turkey depends on your specific situation. Fortunately, during a consultation, your Turkey bariatric surgeon will recommend the most suitable option based on your goals and health.
Turkey Weight Loss Surgery Process & Procedure
If you are interested in Turkey bariatric surgery, you must first know if you qualify. Let’s discover if you meet the criteria for the procedure.
Who is Eligible for Weight Loss Surgery in Turkey?
You may be a candidate for bariatric surgery if you have struggled with long-term obesity without success. However, before surgery, your WLS surgeon in Turkey will assess if you meet the following criteria:[12]
- BMI ≥35, regardless of co-morbidities, is a key criterion.
- BMI ≥30 with type 2 diabetes.
- BMI of 30–34.9 with inadequate weight loss or co-morbidity improvement through non-surgical methods.
Turkey Bariatric Surgery Evaluation Process
Before your first appointment with Bariatric Surgery Clinics in Turkey, please do the following:
- Ensure you're up to date with routine preventive health screenings by consulting your primary care provider.
- Submit your medical history questionnaire for pre-surgical evaluation.
Turkey Weight Loss Surgery – Pre-operative Work-up
The infographic below illustrates the required tests and procedures before bariatric surgery in Turkey.
About Turkey Bariatric Surgery Procedure
Today, most types of weight loss surgery are performed with small incisions. The incisions are made with minimally invasive surgical techniques (laparoscopic and robotic surgery). These less invasive techniques offer improved patient experience with:[13]
- less pain, fewer complications
- shorter hospital stays & faster recovery
All WLS procedures are done using general or epidural anesthesia.[14] It helps to manage pain during the surgery. Having learned about the pre-operative phase & procedure, it is now time to focus on the recovery.
Recovery Time for Various Types of Bariatric Surgery in Turkey
Patients usually spend 1 to 3 days in the hospital after weight loss surgery.
They resume normal activities 4 to 6 weeks later.
However, long-term lifestyle changes are necessary to maximize the benefits of your surgery.
Source: NHS[15]
Walking Post-WLS
Now, let's explore the recovery timelines for various bariatric procedures.
| Procedure | Recovery time |
| Gastric sleeve | 2 – 3 weeks |
| Gastric bypass | 4 – 6 weeks |
| Mini gastric bypass | 2 – 3 weeks |
| Gastric balloon | 3 days |
| Gastric band | 1 week |
| Stomach Botox surgery | Immediate |
Source: Healthline,[16],[17] Bariatric Surgery Source,[18],[19] Medical News Today[20]
Note: The recovery duration varies for each case. Ensure to consult your Turkey bariatric surgeon & dietician for post-surgery guidance.
Now you know all about the best weight loss surgery in Turkey. But what about the safety of the country? Read ahead to find out.
How Safe is Weight Loss Surgery in Turkey?
It's absolutely safe when it comes to weight loss surgery in Turkey.[21] Turkey is among the top medical tourism places because of healthcare services' quality, affordability, and accessibility.[22]
Furthermore, WLS is highly safe, with complication rates lower than those of common operations like:[23]
- hip replacement
- hysterectomy, and
- Gallbladder removal
Weight Loss Medications: Are They for You?
Struggling to shed those stubborn extra pounds? Well, there's a new innovation in the weight loss arena: weight loss drugs! Where countless diets and exercise plans disappoint, many are turning to GLP-1 Agonist medications.
They function by slowing down the digestion process in your stomach, known as delayed gastric emptying. This delay keeps you feeling full for a longer period of time.[24]
But are these medications a safer alternative to weight loss surgery?
Bariatric Surgery vs Drugs
Let’s briefly compare the two!
| Aspect | Weight Loss Surgery | Weight Loss Drugs |
| Effectiveness |
|
|
| Long-term Success | Offers long-term weight maintenance and improved overall health[29] | Often requires continued use, with the potential for weight regain upon discontinuation[30] |
| Psychological Impact | May lead to improvements in self-esteem and body image[31] | Depression can be one of the side effects of the weight loss drugs[32] |
| Cost | It is considered one of the most successful and affordable alternatives to weight loss[33] | Medications are prescribed for an indefinite period of time and are expensive as well[34] |
Wondering about the safety of these drugs?
Let’s consider the case of one of the drugs, lorcaserin, that was available in the market under different brand names. Lorcaserin was withdrawn from the US by the FDA because clinical trials indicated higher chances of cancer.[35]
This was all about the weight loss pills that will help you to decide wisely what is right for you!
Ready for the trip? Here are some travel essentials to help you.
Medical Tourism in Turkey
Did you know?
Turkey leads in medical tourism with affordable prices and high success rates.[36]
The country caters to around 1.2 million European tourists seeking medical services.[37] It is not only a perfect choice for your healthcare needs but also a beautiful country to explore.
Hot Air Balloons in Turkey
Turkey has everything from charming ancient ruins to a vibrant nightlife. Not to mention the diverse range of delicacies you can try in Turkey. But travel planning and execution can be an overwhelming task. No need to worry; we'll help you plan a trouble-free trip.
Keep reading to know more.
Visa Requirements
Entry requirements for foreigners traveling to Turkey are very simple. However, you must check if your country is exempt from a Turkey visa.[38] When entering Turkey, you need to bring the following documents:
- A passport that expires at least 60 days beyond your stay.
- A valid visa you can obtain upon arrival in Turkey or from the Turkish Consulates in your country.
- Find the specific visa requirements for your country on the Turkish MFA website.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Turkey[39]
Flights
Turkey is well-connected to all major and minor cities of the world as it has a total of 57 airports across the country.[40]
| City, Country - IATA | Flight Duration |
| London, UK - LHR | 3.35h |
| Birmingham, UK - BHX | 4h |
| Los Angeles, USA - LAX | 14.10h |
Tourist Places
Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions you can visit in Turkey:
Topkapi Palace Museum
Ayasofya Hagia Sofia
Grand Bazaar Istanbul
Galata-Tower
FAQ's on Weight Loss Surgery in Turkey
Weight loss surgery Turkey price is much less than in the UK. You can save up to 70% on your bariatric procedure! Have a look at the list to get a better idea about bariatric surgery Turkey’s prices.
- Gastric Sleeve - £2,750/$3,420
- Gastric Bypass - £3,500/$4,350
- Gastric Balloon - £2,000/$2,490
- Mini Gastric Bypass - £4,235/$5,270
- Lap band - £2,100/$2,610
- Gastric botox - £1,200/$1,500
Gastric bypass in Turkey can cost you around £3,500/$4,350. This includes surgery, surgeon fee, meds, post-op support, hospital stay and ground transfers.
On the other hand, the average price in the UK is about £8,000/$9,950. This means you save around 55% of the cost in Turkey!
In general, weight loss surgery is very cheap in Turkey. This is primarily due to favorable exchange rates and the low cost of living in Turkey.[41] The average cost of gastric sleeve surgery in Turkey is only £2,750/$3,420, 72% cheaper than in the UK.
Your insurance company may cover WLS costs if medically necessary. Also, you may need to show documented evidence of unsuccessful weight loss with a supervised diet and exercise.[42]
So, thoroughly review your insurance policy. And consult your Turkey WLS surgeon & insurer to check coverage options.
WLS in Turkey is performed for overweight people with a body mass index (BMI) of 35 kg/m² or higher. However, in the cases of type 2 diabetes, surgery may be considered for individuals with a BMI of 30 or higher.
Additionally, individuals with a BMI of 30-34.9 with insufficient weight loss through non-surgical methods can also get obesity surgery in Turkey.
Recovery time for WLS varies based on the procedure and individual health. Patients usually recover within 2 to 6 weeks after surgery, gradually resuming normal activities and adapting to dietary changes. Refer to the recovery timeline table for different WLS procedures in Turkey.
The most popular weight loss surgery treatments in Turkey are gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, gastric balloon, and lap band.
However, different bariatric procedures help with weight loss in different ways. Hence consider your personal goals, health status, and risks/benefits when selecting a procedure.
Choosing a specialized medical center for weight loss surgery is always recommended. Moreover, when performed by experts, the chances of complications are minimal.[43] But you need not worry about your WLS in Turkey.
Our Turkey weight loss surgery clinics are state-of-the-art and hold international accreditations. The surgeons working here have 15+ years of experience and are board-certified.
Istanbul, Antalya, and Eskişehir are some of the best places in Turkey for gastric sleeve surgery.
We have partnered with experienced bariatric surgeons and internationally accredited hospitals in these locations. So, you need not worry about safety when choosing Turkey for a gastric sleeve.
Here is a list of some of the best hospitals in Turkey for bariatric surgery:
- Saluss Hospital Istanbul
- Saluss Hospital Antalya
- Memorial Hospital Istanbul
- Klinik Mavi Eskişehir
Conclusion
By choosing weight loss surgery in Turkey you can save up to 70% on your treatment as compared to the UK. Apart from affordable prices, it is completely safe, and you also get the chance to tick it off your bucket list.
What more could one ask for?
Consider the benefits of bariatric surgery in Turkey and take the first step toward slimming down.
References
- WHO: Obesity and overweight
- Daily Sabah: Europe's medical tourism shifts to Turkey
- Healthcare Business Today: Discovering The Best WLS In Turkey
- USHAS: Health Tourism Data
- Healthline: What to Know About Gastric Sleeve
- WebMD: Gastric Bypass Surgery
- Healthdierct.gov: Inserting a gastric balloon
- NHS: Weight loss surgery
- Johns Hopkins: Botulinum Toxin Stomach Injections for Weight Loss
- Frontiers: Role of Robot in Primary & Revisional Bariatric Surgery
- ASMBS: Who is a Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?
- ASMBS: Bariatric Surgery Procedures
- NCBI- Epidural anesthesia for laparoscopic bariatric surgery
- NHS: Afterwards-Weight loss surgery
- Healthline: How Do Gastric Sleeve & Gastric Bypass Surgeries Compare?
- Bariatric Surgery Source: Mini Gastric Bypass Surgery
- Bariatric Surgery Source: Gastric Balloon
- Medical News Today: How does a gastric band work?
- Visa Guide: Do I Need a Visa for Turkey?
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs Turkey: General Information About Turkish Visas
- Traveltriangle: 15 Best Airports In Turkey
- Travel Magazine: The 5 Most Popular Destinatios For Medical Tourism
- Tourism Review News: Turkey–The Rising Star Of Medical Tourism
- Mayo Clinic: Weight-loss surgery: Is it an option for you?
- WebMD: Choosing a Type of Weight Loss Surgery
- NCBI: Medication-Induced Gastroparesis: A Case Report
- Medline Plus: Gastric bypass surgery
- Medline Plus: Weight-loss medicines
- Science Direct: Long-term durability of weight loss after bariatric surgery
- Research Gate: The Impact of Bariatric Surgery on Psychological Health
- Frontiers: Physical and Psychological Effects of Bariatric Surgery on Obese Adolescents
- USA Today: Anti-obesity medications are set to skyrocket this year. But how will we afford them?
- FDA: FDA requests the withdrawal of the weight-loss drug Belviq, Belviq XR (lorcaserin) from the market
