What is Bariatric Surgery? A Permanent and Effective Solution to Obesity

Bariatric surgery refers to a group of surgical procedures designed to help individuals suffering from severe obesity achieve significant and long-term weight loss. These operations aim to reduce the stomach’s capacity, limit food absorption, or both. The primary goal is not only to lose weight but also to manage obesity-related health conditions that threaten overall well-being.

Understanding Obesity and Its Health Impact

Obesity is a chronic medical condition defined by the excessive accumulation of body fat that negatively affects health. According to the World Health Organization, individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher are considered obese.

Obesity increases the risk of various serious health problems, including:

  • Type 2 Diabetes
  • Heart disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Sleep apnea
  • Fatty liver disease (NAFLD/NASH)
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  • Joint problems and limited mobility
  • Mental health issues and low self-esteem

When traditional methods such as diet and exercise fail, bariatric surgery offers a medically-proven, life-changing option.

Types of Bariatric Surgery: Restrictive vs. Malabsorptive Procedures

1. Restrictive Procedures (Stomach Size Reduction)

These procedures work by physically reducing the stomach’s size, allowing the patient to feel full sooner and consume fewer calories.

Main Techniques:

Sleeve Gastrectomy (Gastric Sleeve)

  • Removes 75-80% of the stomach, leaving a narrow, tube-like stomach.
  • Most commonly performed weight loss surgery worldwide.
  • Does not interfere with nutrient absorption.
  • Surgery duration: 1–1.5 hours.
  • Hospital stay: 2–3 days.

Adjustable Gastric Band

  • A silicone band is placed around the upper part of the stomach to create a small pouch.
  • Food intake is slowed and reduced.
  • Reversible and adjustable.
  • Less commonly performed today due to limited long-term effectiveness.

2. Malabsorptive Procedures (Reduced Nutrient Absorption)

These procedures involve bypassing part of the small intestine to reduce calorie and nutrient absorption. They are usually recommended for patients with severe obesity and obesity-related diseases.

Main Techniques:

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

  • Combines stomach size reduction with intestinal bypass.
  • Significantly reduces calorie absorption.
  • Highly effective for weight loss and managing type 2 diabetes.
  • Requires long-term vitamin and mineral supplementation.

Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS)

  • Recommended for patients with extreme obesity.
  • Removes part of the stomach and bypasses a significant portion of the small intestine.
  • Offers the most substantial weight loss but carries higher risk of complications.

Who Is Eligible for Bariatric Surgery?

You may be a candidate for obesity surgery if:

  • Your BMI is 40 kg/m² or higher, regardless of other health conditions.

  • Your BMI is 32 kg/m² or higher and you have at least one of the following obesity-related conditions:

  • Type 2 Diabetes
  • Hypertension
  • Sleep apnea
  • High cholesterol
  • Fatty liver disease (NAFLD/NASH)
  • Acid reflux (GERD)
  • PCOS, asthma
  • Joint-related mobility limitations

Selected patients with a BMI between 30–35 kg/m² and uncontrolled type 2 diabetes may also be considered for surgery under certain conditions.

How Does the Bariatric Surgery Process Work?

  • Comprehensive Consultation: Medical evaluation, lab tests, and assessment of surgical eligibility.
  • Personalized Surgical Plan: Choosing the right procedure based on individual health needs.
  • Surgery: Typically lasts between 1 and 3 hours depending on the technique.
  • Hospital Stay: Usually 2–3 days for recovery and monitoring.
  • Recovery: Return to soft foods within 2–4 weeks; long-term lifestyle adaptation within months.
  • Ongoing Support: Continued guidance from dietitians and surgeons for lasting success.

Why Choose Turkey for Bariatric Surgery?

Turkey has emerged as a global leader in bariatric surgery, offering patients:

  • Board-certified, highly experienced obesity surgeons
  • Internationally accredited, modern hospitals
  • All-inclusive, affordable medical tourism packages
  • Dedicated multilingual support teams for international patients
  • Post-operative care and long-term follow-up services

Are There Any Risks? Understanding Complications

While bariatric surgery is generally safe, like any surgical procedure, it may carry some risks:

  • Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
  • Digestive issues (e.g., nausea, dumping syndrome)
  • Risk of infection or surgical leakage
  • Blood clots
  • Rare need for revision surgery

With expert care and proper post-operative management, these risks can be significantly minimized.

What Are the Alternatives to Surgery?

For patients not eligible or not ready for surgery, alternatives include:

  • Medically supervised weight loss programs
  • Nutrition and behavioral counseling
  • Non-surgical interventions such as gastric balloon or stomach injection

Take the First Step Toward a Healthier Life

Bariatric surgery is more than weight loss — it’s a gateway to a healthier, more active life.
With Turkey’s state-of-the-art healthcare system, expert surgeons, and supportive medical tourism services, your transformation begins with confidence.

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation and find the best treatment plan tailored to your needs.