Gastric Sleeve Surgery: A Complete Guide by a World-Class Surgeon
Welcome. Deciding to explore a permanent solution for your health and weight is a significant and commendable step. If you are seeking clear, authoritative information about Gastric Sleeve Surgery, you have arrived at a center for surgical excellence and patient-focused care. As one of the most effective and widely performed bariatric procedures globally, the gastric sleeve has transformed countless lives. This comprehensive guide is designed to answer your questions, from “what is a gastric sleeve?” to understanding the long-term journey, all explained with the medical precision and compassion you deserve.
Our goal is to provide you with a complete picture of the gastric sleeve procedure, empowering you to make a confident and informed decision. We will delve into the details of the surgery, the expected outcomes, the costs, and how it compares to other options. Led by the expertise of Prof. Dr. Oguzhan Karatepe, our team is committed to supporting you on your path to a healthier, more vibrant life. We are here to help you understand if this powerful tool is the right choice for you.
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Meet Prof. Dr. Oguzhan Karatepe: Your Gastric Sleeve Specialist
At the core of our practice is Prof. Dr. Oguzhan Karatepe, a world-class general surgeon devoted to achieving excellence in patient care and surgical outcomes. With an esteemed career spanning over 25 years, Dr. Karatepe has cemented his reputation as a global leader in the fields of general and bariatric surgery. His dedication to advancing medical science is highlighted by his authorship of more than 100 prestigious national and international academic publications.
Prof. Dr. Karatepe’s formidable expertise is enhanced by advanced training at some of the world’s most respected medical institutions, ensuring his surgical techniques represent the pinnacle of modern medicine. He is recognized globally as one of the foremost general surgeons, a status earned through a consistent record of precision, innovation, and successful patient transformations. Patients from every corner of the globe, including the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia, place their trust in Prof. Dr. Karatepe, not only for his exceptional surgical skill but for his deeply compassionate and patient-first philosophy. We know that considering a gastric sleeve operation is a monumental decision. Under Dr. Karatepe’s care, you are in the hands of a trusted, world-renowned expert committed to supporting you on your journey to better health.
With over 25 years of experience, we are here to help. Contact us now to find the best solution for your health.
What is Gastric Sleeve Surgery? (Sleeve Gastrectomy)
To answer the question, “what is gastric sleeve surgery?“, it is a bariatric procedure that promotes weight loss by fundamentally changing the size and shape of your stomach. Medically known as a Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG), this operation involves surgically removing approximately 80% of the stomach. The remaining portion is shaped into a narrow tube or “sleeve,” roughly the size and shape of a banana. This new, smaller stomach can only hold a small amount of food, which causes you to feel full much more quickly and for longer periods, thereby drastically reducing your calorie intake.
However, the success of the gastric sleeve goes beyond simple restriction. The portion of the stomach that is removed is responsible for producing most of the body’s ghrelin, often called the “hunger hormone.” By removing this section, the surgery significantly reduces the hormonal signals that drive appetite. Patients often report a dramatic decrease in hunger, making it much easier to adapt to a healthier diet and portion sizes. The bariatric surgery gastric sleeve is purely restrictive; it does not involve rerouting the intestines, which means nutrient absorption remains largely intact. This lowers the risk of certain vitamin deficiencies compared to malabsorptive procedures like the gastric bypass.
The gastric sleeve operation is performed laparoscopically, using several small incisions and a camera for visualization. This minimally invasive approach results in less pain, minimal scarring, and a much faster recovery time. So, how long does gastric sleeve surgery take? The procedure itself is typically completed in 60 to 90 minutes by an experienced surgeon.
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Pros and Cons of Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Making an informed decision requires a balanced understanding of the benefits and potential downsides. The pros and cons of gastric sleeve surgery should be carefully weighed in consultation with your surgeon to determine if it’s the right fit for your individual health profile and lifestyle.
Advantages of the Gastric Sleeve
- Effective Weight Loss: Patients typically achieve significant and durable weight loss, with studies showing an average weight loss with gastric sleeve of 60-70% of excess body weight.
- Hormonal Benefits: The reduction in the hunger hormone ghrelin provides a powerful metabolic advantage by decreasing appetite.
- Improved Health Conditions: It is highly effective at improving or resolving obesity-related conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.
- Simpler Procedure: Compared to gastric bypass, it is a technically simpler surgery with a lower risk of certain complications.
- No Intestinal Rerouting: This reduces the risk of long-term nutritional deficiencies related to malabsorption.
- No Foreign Objects: Unlike the gastric band, no artificial devices are implanted in the body.
Potential Disadvantages and Side Effects
- Irreversibility: Because a portion of the stomach is permanently removed, the procedure is not reversible.
- Potential for Acid Reflux: Some patients may develop or experience worsening acid reflux (GERD) after the surgery.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: While less common than with bypass, lifelong vitamin and mineral supplementation is still essential to prevent deficiencies.
- Weight Regain: As with any bariatric procedure, there is a risk of weight regain if the patient does not adhere to the required long-term dietary and lifestyle changes. You can review our detailed section on the gastric sleeve surgery side effects below.
Gastric Sleeve vs Gastric Bypass: Making the Right Choice
One of the most common questions patients ask is about the difference between gastric sleeve vs gastric bypass. Both are excellent procedures, but they have key distinctions that may make one a better choice for you. The gastric bypass vs sleeve decision is one of the most critical conversations you will have with your surgeon.
Here is a comparison to help clarify the choice between a gastric sleeve vs bypass:
| Feature | Gastric Sleeve | Gastric Bypass |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Restrictive (reduces stomach size and hunger hormone) | Restrictive & Malabsorptive (creates small pouch and reroutes intestine) |
| Procedure | Simpler, shorter operation. Removes part of the stomach. | More complex. Divides stomach and reroutes the small intestine. |
| Impact on Diabetes | Very effective at improving or resolving diabetes. | Extremely effective, often considered the “gold standard” for diabetes remission due to stronger hormonal effects. |
| Acid Reflux (GERD) | Can sometimes worsen or cause new-onset reflux. | Is an excellent treatment for pre-existing reflux. |
| Nutritional Risks | Lower risk of vitamin and mineral deficiencies. | Higher risk of deficiencies (iron, B12, calcium), requiring strict lifelong supplementation. |
| Reversibility | Permanent (irreversible). | Technically reversible, but this is a rare and very complex procedure. |
Ultimately, the gastric bypass surgery vs sleeve decision is based on factors like your BMI, the presence and severity of co-morbidities (especially diabetes and acid reflux), and a detailed discussion about your personal preferences and lifestyle.
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Your Gastric Sleeve Journey: Before and After
The transformation seen in gastric sleeve before and after stories is about more than just weight loss; it’s about reclaiming health, confidence, and life itself. This journey is a structured process, and we guide you every step of the way.
Gastric Sleeve Surgery Requirements
The requirements for gastric sleeve surgery are based on established medical guidelines to ensure patient safety and success. General criteria include:
- A Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or greater.
- A BMI of 35-39.9 with significant weight-related health problems like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or severe sleep apnea.
- A demonstrated history of unsuccessful attempts at traditional weight loss methods.
- Commitment to lifelong dietary changes, vitamin supplementation, and follow-up care.
- A psychological evaluation to ensure you are prepared for the journey ahead.
The Gastric Sleeve Procedure and Recovery
The gastric sleeve operation is performed under general anesthesia and takes about 60-90 minutes. You will stay in the hospital for 2-3 nights for monitoring. Recovery is relatively quick due to the laparoscopic approach. You will start with a liquid diet and gradually progress to pureed and soft foods over several weeks. Most patients can return to desk work in 2-3 weeks and resume normal activities within 4-6 weeks.
Addressing Concerns: Risks and Long-Term Realities
We believe in transparency and empowering patients with a realistic understanding of the entire journey. This includes honestly addressing potential challenges and negative outcomes.
“Gastric Sleeve Surgery Ruined My Life”: Understanding Patient Regret
A search online may reveal stories from individuals who say “gastric sleeve surgery ruined my life.” It is vital to address this with empathy and honesty. While the vast majority of patients have overwhelmingly positive, life-changing experiences, negative outcomes and regret can occur. This is often rooted in several key areas:
- Unrealistic Expectations: Believing surgery is a “magic wand” without fully committing to the necessary lifestyle changes.
- Inadequate Post-Op Support: Lacking a strong support system from the surgical team, family, and community.
- Complications: While rare, complications like chronic acid reflux or leaks can have a significant negative impact on quality of life if not managed properly.
- Unresolved Psychological Issues: Surgery fixes the stomach, not the mind. If the psychological relationship with food is not addressed, it can lead to issues like transfer addiction or depression.
At our center, we mitigate these risks through comprehensive pre-operative education, world-class surgical technique to minimize complications, and a commitment to long-term follow-up and support. Our goal is to ensure you are a success story, not a statistic of regret.
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Gastric Sleeve 10 Years Later: A Look at Long-Term Success
What does life with a gastric sleeve 10 years later look like? For patients who remain committed, it looks like sustained weight loss, long-term remission of co-morbidities, and a high quality of life. Success is defined by adherence to the long-term diet after gastric sleeve surgery, which is a diet of nutrient-dense whole foods in small portions. It also requires consistent exercise and lifelong vitamin intake. Weight regain is possible over the long term if a patient reverts to old habits like grazing on high-calorie foods or drinking sugary beverages. Long-term success is an active partnership between you and the powerful tool your surgery provides.
The Need for Gastric Sleeve Revision Surgery
In some cases, a gastric sleeve revision may be necessary. The most common reasons for a gastric sleeve revision surgery are insufficient weight loss/significant weight regain or the development of severe, unmanageable acid reflux (GERD). The most common revision procedure is to convert the gastric sleeve to a gastric bypass, which can provide additional weight loss and is an excellent cure for reflux. This is a complex procedure that requires a surgeon with extensive experience in revisional surgery, like Prof. Dr. Karatepe.
Understanding the Cost of Gastric Sleeve Surgery
One of the most pressing questions for patients is, “how much is gastric sleeve surgery?” The gastric sleeve cost can vary dramatically depending on your geographic location. The private cost of gastric sleeve surgery in countries like the USA, UK, or Australia can be prohibitively expensive.
This is where our center in Turkey provides a solution of exceptional value. The gastric sleeve surgery cost with our team is significantly more affordable, not due to any compromise on quality, but because of the different economic factors of the country. We provide a clear, all-inclusive cost for gastric sleeve surgery that covers the procedure by a world-class surgeon, a JCI-accredited hospital stay, hotel accommodation, and all transfers. This transparency and affordability make this life-changing procedure accessible. When you ask “how much is a gastric sleeve?“, we provide an answer that combines excellence with value.
Contact & WhatsApp: +90 530 917 30 30
Key Takeaways
- A Premier Choice: Gastric sleeve surgery is a safe, effective, and globally popular procedure for achieving significant long-term weight loss.
- Dual Benefit: It works by restricting food intake and reducing hunger hormones, providing a powerful advantage for success.
- Expertise Matters: Your outcome is directly linked to the skill of your surgeon. Prof. Dr. Karatepe’s 25+ years of experience ensures you are in the safest hands.
- Honest Expectations: Success requires a lifelong commitment. We address all concerns, including long-term realities and the potential for gastric sleeve revision, with transparency.
- Clear Comparisons: The gastric sleeve vs gastric bypass decision is a crucial one we will make with you based on your specific health needs, especially concerning diabetes and reflux.
- Accessible Excellence: We offer a world-class gastric sleeve experience at an affordable cost, removing financial barriers to your health.
Your Next Step: A Consultation with Our Team
You have taken a courageous and important step by researching your options for a healthier future. Understanding the procedures is the foundation, but a personal consultation is where clarity is found. We know you have questions specific to your life, your health, and your hopes. This guide is a starting point, but a direct conversation is essential to create a plan that is right for you. We are here to provide that professional advice in a supportive and respectful environment.
Prof. Dr. Oguzhan Karatepe and our entire team are committed to this mission. With over 25 years of experience and a legacy of helping hundreds of patients from all over the world, we have the expertise to guide you safely on your path. We have witnessed the incredible transformations that a gastric sleeve surgery makes possible—not just a change on the scale, but a profound renewal of health, self-confidence, and the joy of living. We do not make unrealistic promises, but we do promise our absolute dedication, surgical excellence, and unwavering support.
Your journey to a more vibrant and healthier life can start right now. Let us help you explore the possibilities. We perform these surgeries with expertise and are ready to build your personalized treatment plan.
Contact us now to find the best solution for your health. Schedule your confidential, no-obligation consultation to speak with our expert patient coordinators. Join hundreds of patients who trusted us and made the decision to invest in their well-being. We are here to listen, to guide, and to support you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Basics and Eligibility
1. What is a gastric sleeve?
A gastric sleeve, or sleeve gastrectomy, is a bariatric surgery where about 80% of the stomach is removed to create a smaller, tube-shaped stomach, restricting food intake and reducing hunger.
2. What are the requirements for gastric sleeve surgery?
Typically, a BMI of 40+ or a BMI of 35+ with obesity-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure is required.
3. How long does gastric sleeve surgery take?
The surgical procedure itself usually takes between 60 and 90 minutes.
4. Is gastric sleeve surgery considered a major surgery?
Yes, it is a major surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia, although it is done laparoscopically (minimally invasively).
5. Am I too old for a gastric sleeve?
Suitability is based more on your overall health than your chronological age. Many patients in their 60s and beyond have the surgery successfully.
6. Is the gastric sleeve permanent?
Yes, the procedure is irreversible because a large portion of the stomach is permanently removed.
7. How is it different from a gastric bypass?
The gastric sleeve only restricts stomach size. The gastric bypass restricts size and also reroutes the intestines to reduce calorie absorption.
8. Is the gastric sleeve a good option for me if I have acid reflux?
Sometimes, a gastric sleeve can worsen acid reflux. For patients with severe pre-existing reflux, a gastric bypass is often the better option.
9. Do I need to lose weight before the surgery?
Yes, you will be required to follow a special pre-operative diet to shrink your liver, which makes the operation safer.
10. What is a sleeve gastrectomy gastric sleeve?
These terms refer to the same procedure. “Sleeve gastrectomy” is the formal medical name, while “gastric sleeve” is the common name.
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Cost and Financials
11. How much is gastric sleeve surgery?
The cost varies greatly by country. In the US or UK, it can be very expensive, while the cost in our center in Turkey is significantly more affordable.
12. What does the gastric sleeve surgery cost include?
Our all-inclusive packages typically cover the surgeon’s fee, hospital stay, anesthesia, hotel, and all necessary transfers.
13. Are there payment plans for the cost of the gastric sleeve surgery?
We require payment in full, but we can provide the necessary documentation if you wish to seek financing from a medical loan company in your home country.
14. Is the gastric sleeve cost cheaper than gastric bypass?
Yes, the gastric sleeve is generally a less complex procedure, and its cost is typically slightly lower than that of a gastric bypass.
15. Will my insurance cover the cost of gastric sleeve surgery?
Insurance coverage varies widely. Many international patients choose to self-pay in Turkey as it can be cheaper than their local insurance co-pays or deductibles.
16. Why is the cost for gastric sleeve surgery lower in Turkey?
This is due to the country’s economic factors, including lower operational and labor costs, not a difference in quality or safety standards.
17. How much is a gastric sleeve if I don’t have insurance?
Our center specializes in providing affordable, high-quality options for self-paying patients from around the world.
18. Is financing available?
While we do not offer direct financing, we support patients by providing all required medical documentation for them to apply for loans independently.
19. Are there any hidden fees?
No, we pride ourselves on transparency. The price you are quoted for the package is the price you pay.
20. Is the consultation free?
Yes, your initial consultation and quote from our patient coordination team are completely free and no-obligation.
Weight Loss and Results
21. What is the average weight loss with gastric sleeve?
Patients can expect to lose, on average, 60-70% of their excess body weight within the first 12 to 18 months.
22. How quickly will I lose weight?
Weight loss is most rapid in the first 3-6 months and then continues at a steadier pace.
23. Will I regain the weight?
Weight regain is possible if you do not stick to the required diet and exercise regimen. The sleeve is a tool, not a magic cure.
24. What does a gastric sleeve before and after look like?
The physical transformation can be dramatic, but the most significant changes are often in health, energy, and confidence.
25. Can I reach my goal weight in one year?
Many patients get very close to their goal weight within the first year. The full process can take up to 18-24 months.
26. What happens after 10 years with a gastric sleeve?
With lifelong commitment, patients can maintain their weight loss and health benefits. It requires ongoing dedication to the bariatric lifestyle.
27. What if I stop losing weight?
Weight loss stalls are a normal part of the journey. Sticking to your program is key to breaking through them.
28. Will my diabetes go away?
The gastric sleeve is very effective at causing remission or significant improvement of type 2 diabetes in most patients.
29. How much weight will I lose in the first month?
While it varies, many patients lose 10-20 lbs (5-9 kg) in the first month.
30. Is success guaranteed?
We cannot guarantee specific results, as success is a partnership between our surgical expertise and your lifelong commitment.
Diet and Lifestyle
31. What is the long-term diet after gastric sleeve surgery?
It is a diet focused on lean protein, vegetables, and fruits, eaten in very small portions. High-sugar, high-fat, and processed foods must be avoided.
32. Can I ever eat normally again?
You will establish a “new normal.” You will be able to enjoy a wide variety of healthy foods, but your portion sizes will be permanently small.
33. Do I have to take vitamins forever?
Yes, daily bariatric-specific vitamins and minerals are required for life to prevent serious nutritional deficiencies.
34. Can I drink alcohol after a gastric sleeve?
You should avoid alcohol for at least the first year. Afterwards, it must be consumed with extreme caution as you will become very sensitive to its effects.
35. Can I drink coffee?
Yes, in moderation. However, you must prioritize water intake as caffeine can be dehydrating.
36. What foods are off-limits?
Sugary drinks, sweets, fried foods, and “slider foods” (like crackers and crisps) that are high in calories but don’t fill you up should be avoided.
37. When can I start exercising?
Walking is encouraged immediately. You can typically resume more strenuous exercise after 4-6 weeks with your surgeon’s clearance.
38. What happens if I overeat?
You will likely feel significant discomfort, pain, or nausea. Your new stomach provides powerful feedback to keep portions small.
39. How much protein do I need?
You will need to consume 60-80 grams of protein per day to preserve muscle mass and promote healing.
40. Can I eat bread, pasta, or rice?
These foods can be difficult to tolerate and offer little nutritional value. They should be severely limited or avoided.
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Risks, Side Effects, and Revision
41. What are the main gastric sleeve surgery side effects?
Common short-term side effects can include nausea and fatigue. Long-term risks include acid reflux, vitamin deficiencies, and gallstones.
42. Can gastric sleeve surgery ruin your life?
For a small minority with complications or lack of adherence, it can be a difficult journey. This is why choosing an expert surgeon and having strong post-op support is crucial.
43. What is the biggest risk of gastric sleeve surgery?
The most serious, though rare, complication is a staple line leak, which requires immediate medical attention.
44. What is a gastric sleeve revision?
It is a second surgery to correct a problem from the initial sleeve, such as converting it to a bypass to treat severe reflux.
45. Why would I need a gastric sleeve revision surgery?
The most common reasons are insufficient weight loss or the development of severe, chronic acid reflux.
46. Will I get gallstones?
Rapid weight loss can increase the risk of developing gallstones. Your surgeon may prescribe medication to help prevent this.
47. Will I lose my hair after surgery?
Some temporary hair thinning at 3-6 months post-op is common due to the physiological stress of surgery and rapid weight loss. It usually grows back.
48. Can the sleeve stretch?
Yes, consistently overeating can cause the stomach sleeve to stretch over time, reducing the surgery’s effectiveness.
49. Is acid reflux common after a gastric sleeve?
Some patients develop new or worsening acid reflux. It is a known potential side effect that must be discussed with your surgeon.
50. How are complications minimized?
By choosing a highly experienced surgeon, a top-tier hospital, and by strictly following all pre- and post-operative instructions.
The Surgery and Hospital Stay
51. How long is gastric sleeve surgery?
The procedure itself takes about 60-90 minutes, but you will be in the operating and recovery rooms for several hours.
52. Will I have a lot of pain?
Pain is managed with medication and is generally described as soreness. The minimally invasive approach greatly reduces post-operative pain.
53. How long will I be in the hospital?
A hospital stay of 2-3 nights is typical.
54. Will I have a scar?
You will have 4-5 small scars from the laparoscopic incisions, which are typically less than an inch long and fade well over time.
55. Will I need a blood transfusion?
It is extremely rare for a patient to require a blood transfusion for an elective gastric sleeve surgery.
56. What happens immediately after I wake up?
You will be in a recovery room for monitoring. Our nursing staff will manage your comfort and help you take your first sips of water a few hours later.
57. Can I shower in the hospital?
Yes, you will typically be able to shower within a day or two after the surgery.
58. Will I have a drain?
Some surgeons use a temporary surgical drain for a day or two to remove excess fluid from the surgical site. This is a routine precaution.
59. How soon can I walk?
You will be encouraged and helped to get out of bed and walk within a few hours of your surgery to promote circulation.
60. What tests are done before I leave the hospital?
Often, a leak test (swallowing a special dye) is performed before discharge to ensure the staple line is secure.
Comparing Options
61. Is the gastric sleeve better than the gastric bypass?
Neither is universally “better.” The sleeve is simpler with fewer nutritional risks. The bypass is more powerful for diabetes and reflux. The best choice is individual.
62. Why choose a sleeve over a gastric band?
The sleeve provides more significant and durable weight loss and does not involve a foreign implant, which can have long-term complications.
63. Is the sleeve better than diet pills or injections?
Yes, surgery provides a far more powerful and permanent solution for weight loss and health improvement than medications, which often stop working or cause weight regain when discontinued.
64. What is the difference between a vertical sleeve and a gastric sleeve?
They are the same thing. The full medical name is Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy.
65. If I have reflux, is bypass my only option?
For severe reflux, bypass is strongly recommended. For mild reflux, a sleeve may still be an option, sometimes combined with a hernia repair.
66. Which surgery has a faster recovery?
The gastric sleeve generally has a slightly faster and simpler recovery than the gastric bypass.
67. Which is safer, sleeve or bypass?
Both are very safe. The sleeve has a slightly lower risk of immediate and long-term complications due to being a less complex operation.
68. Can a sleeve be converted to another surgery?
Yes, a sleeve can be revised to a gastric bypass or other procedures if needed.
69. Why is the sleeve so popular now?
Its popularity comes from its excellent balance of safety, effectiveness, and lower risk of long-term nutritional issues.
70. What’s gastric sleeve surgery’s main advantage over bypass?
Its main advantage is avoiding the malabsorptive component, which means a lower lifelong risk of severe vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
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Life After Surgery – The Details
71. Can I get pregnant after a gastric sleeve?
Yes. It is vital to wait 12-18 months after surgery before conceiving to ensure your nutrition and weight are stable.
72. How will this affect my social life?
You can absolutely have a full social life. You will learn to focus on the company rather than the food and make smart choices when dining out.
73. What about plastic surgery for loose skin?
This can be considered once your weight has been stable for at least 6 months, typically around 18-24 months post-op.
74. Will my taste for food change?
Many patients report that their tastes change. They often develop a preference for healthier foods and an aversion to overly sweet or fatty items.
75. Will I have to be on a liquid diet forever?
No, the liquid diet phase is temporary, lasting only for the first couple of weeks after surgery.
76. What is “dumping syndrome” and do sleeve patients get it?
Dumping syndrome is a reaction to sugary food that is common after gastric bypass. It is rare after a gastric sleeve but can still occur in some individuals.
77. Do I need to tell restaurants I’ve had surgery?
You don’t have to, but many patients find it helpful to order from the appetizer or children’s menu, or simply explain they can only eat small portions.
78. Can I take my regular medications?
All medications must be reviewed. Some may need to be crushed or changed to a liquid form initially. NSAIDs like ibuprofen should be avoided.
79. What happens at my follow-up appointments?
Follow-ups involve monitoring your weight loss, checking your nutritional labs with blood tests, and discussing any challenges you may have.
80. Will I feel tired after the surgery?
It’s normal to feel fatigued in the first few weeks as your body is healing and adapting to a lower calorie intake. This improves as you recover.
Miscellaneous Questions
81. What’s the first step to get started?
Contact our team for a free, no-obligation initial consultation to discuss your case.
82. How do I prepare my home for my return?
Stock your kitchen with the necessary items for your liquid and puree diet phases, such as protein shakes, broths, and a blender.
83. What makes Prof. Dr. Karatepe an expert in gastric sleeve?
His 25+ years of experience, high volume of bariatric surgeries, and commitment to using the latest, safest techniques.
84. Can I travel alone for the surgery?
While you can, we strongly recommend bringing a companion for support during your trip.
85. What if I get hungry between meals?
This is rare due to the hormonal effects. If it occurs, it’s important to focus on hydration and ensure you are meeting your protein goals at mealtimes.
86. Will I feel deprived?
Most patients feel liberated, not deprived. They are freed from constant hunger and the health burdens of obesity.
87. What is the success rate for gastric sleeve?
When defined as losing at least 50% of excess body weight, the success rate is over 85-90% for patients who follow the program.
88. Can I lift my kids after surgery?
You will have lifting restrictions for the first 4-6 weeks to allow your abdominal muscles to heal properly.
89. What is the pre-op diet like?
It is typically a very low-calorie diet, often consisting of protein shakes, lean protein, and non-starchy vegetables.
90. How will the bariatric surgery gastric sleeve affect my life?
It has the potential to positively transform every aspect of your life, from your physical health to your mental well-being and confidence.
91. Is it normal to be nervous?
Yes, it is completely normal to feel a mix of nervousness and excitement. Our team is here to support you through these feelings.
92. What if I can’t tolerate the vitamins?
There are many forms available (chewable, liquid, patches). We can help you find a bariatric-specific vitamin that you can tolerate.
93. Can I have a sleeve if I have had previous abdominal surgery?
Yes, in most cases. A detailed surgical history is necessary for your surgeon to plan the safest approach.
94. Do you use robotic surgery for the gastric sleeve?
Yes, we offer robotic-assisted gastric sleeve surgery, which can enhance precision and may lead to a smoother recovery.
95. What is the biggest mistake patients make after surgery?
The biggest mistake is becoming complacent and slowly slipping back into old habits like grazing or drinking high-calorie fluids.
96. How will I know when I’m full?
You will learn to recognize new fullness cues, such as a feeling of pressure in your chest, a runny nose, or a hiccup.
97. Can I go swimming after surgery?
You must wait until your incisions are fully healed, typically 4-6 weeks, before submerging them in a pool or the sea.
98. Will my stomach make noises?
It is common for the new stomach sleeve to be more “talkative,” especially in the beginning, as it processes food and liquid.
99. Can I ever have a baby?
Yes, and fertility often improves. It is crucial to use reliable contraception and wait 12-18 months post-op before planning a pregnancy.
100. Why should I choose your team for my gastric sleeve surgery?
You should choose us for our combination of world-class surgical expertise, a commitment to patient safety and support, and our ability to provide this life-changing care affordably.
Contact & WhatsApp: +90 530 917 30 30
References
We base our practice and information on the highest standards set by leading global medical authorities. The content on this page is informed by the following organizations:
- American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS). (n.d.). Sleeve Gastrectomy. https://asmbs.org/patients/sleeve-gastrectomy/
- National Health Service (NHS), UK. (n.d.). Weight loss surgery – Types. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/weight-loss-surgery/types/
- International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO). (n.d.). https://www.ifso.com/
Please note: This information is for general purposes only. For personalized treatment advice, please contact us directly.
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