Sleeve gastrectomy is one of the most commonly preferred methods of bariatric surgery today. So how did this surgery come about? The history of sleeve gastrectomy encompasses a significant developmental process that reflects the evolution of obesity management in modern medicine.

What is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Gastric sleeve surgery is a weight-loss procedure that involves surgically removing approximately 75-80% of the stomach. This procedure results in the stomach being shaped like a long, thin tube, reducing its volume and reducing levels of the hunger hormone ghrelin . This allows patients to feel full while eating less, resulting in weight loss.

The Emergence of Gastric Sleeve Surgery

The origins of gastric sleeve surgery date back to the 1980s. During this period, the gastric sleeve was not performed as a standalone weight-loss method but rather as the first stage of a more complex surgical procedure called duodenal switch surgery.

In the 1990s, gastric sleeve surgery was used as a temporary preliminary procedure for high-risk and morbidly obese patients. The goal was to make the patient more suitable for a second-stage surgery by losing weight. Over time, observations revealed that even gastric sleeve surgery alone resulted in significant weight loss. These findings led to the evaluation of gastric sleeve surgery as a standalone treatment option.

The Development of Modern Gastric Sleeve Surgery

In the early 2000s, gastric sleeve surgery became more widely performed. With the development of laparoscopic (closed) techniques, the surgery became safer and recovery time was shorter.

• In 2003, the American Society of Obesity and Metabolic Surgery (ASMBS) recognized gastric sleeve surgery as an investigational procedure.
• As of 2010, gastric sleeve surgery began to be covered by insurance in many countries and has become the most frequently performed bariatric surgery worldwide.

Why is Gastric Sleeve Surgery So Preferred in Türkiye?

Gastric sleeve surgery has gained popularity in Turkey since the mid-2000s. In recent years, rising obesity rates and advanced surgical facilities have made Turkey a major bariatric surgery hub for both domestic and international patients .

Gastric sleeve surgery has become one of the most commonly used surgical methods for obesity treatment in Türkiye, as it is worldwide. Both domestic and international patients frequently choose Türkiye for this procedure.

Why Has Interest in Gastric Sleeve Surgery Increased?

Increasing Obesity Rates

Obesity has become a serious public health problem in Türkiye in recent years. Unhealthy diets, sedentary lifestyles, and genetic factors have led to a rapid rise in obesity rates. This has increased the demand for permanent and effective solutions like gastric sleeve surgery.

Advanced Surgical Infrastructure

Private hospitals and surgical centers serving major cities in Türkiye boast modern technology and experienced surgeons at European standards, providing patients with confidence throughout the surgical process.

Experienced Bariatric Surgeons

Turkey boasts many accomplished general surgeons specializing in obesity surgery. These surgeons are internationally trained and have accumulated thousands of caseloads of experience. This professionalism ensures that the gastric sleeve surgery process is both safe and effective.

Advantages of Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Türkiye

Reasonable Price Policy

Turkey offers high-quality healthcare at much more affordable prices than countries like Europe and the United States. Gastric sleeve surgery prices are quite attractive to international patients. This has made Turkey an attractive destination for health tourism .

Fast and Accessible Healthcare

Gastric sleeve surgery can be performed in private hospitals without a waiting period. Patients can be examined and have their tests done very quickly, and then proceed to surgery. This is a significant advantage in terms of both time and health.

 Health Tourism and International Service

Turkey has gained significant momentum in health tourism in recent years. Services such as specialized consulting, accommodation, translation, and transfers are offered to international patients. The surgical process is managed in a planned and comfortable manner from beginning to end.

How is Gastric Sleeve Surgery Performed in Türkiye?

Gastric sleeve surgery is performed in Turkey using a laparoscopic (closed) method . This method allows:

• Post-operative recovery time is shortened
• Less pain is felt
• The risk of infection is reduced
• Less aesthetic scarring

After the surgery, patients stay in the hospital for 1-2 days and can return to their normal lives in approximately 1 week.

What Do Those Who Had Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Türkiye Say?

A majority of patients report positive changes, both physically and psychologically, following surgery. Effects such as increased self-confidence, a more active lifestyle, and a reduction in health problems demonstrate the success of gastric sleeve surgery.

Gastric sleeve surgery in Turkey offers significant advantages, including high-quality healthcare, experienced doctors, and affordable prices. This makes Turkey a leading choice for bariatric surgery for both domestic and international patients .

April 2025