What you eat after a gastric sleeve protects the healing stomach and shapes your long-term result. The stages are simple, but they need to be followed in order. In this guide New City Clinic sets out the usual plan; your dietitian adapts it to you.
Weeks one and two: liquids
For the first two weeks you take only liquids: water, clear broth, unsweetened drinks, then milk, thin soups and protein shakes. Sip slowly throughout the day rather than drinking a glass at once, aiming for around 1.5 litres. Fizzy drinks, alcohol and sugary juices are avoided. The staple line in the stomach is healing, and solid food at this stage risks complications.
Weeks three to six: purées and soft foods
From the third week you move to smooth purées such as yoghurt, puréed vegetables, lentil soup and blended chicken or fish, then to soft foods you can mash with a fork: eggs, soft cheese, minced meat, cooked vegetables. Eat protein first. Take small bites, chew thoroughly, stop at the first sign of fullness, and keep drinks separate from meals by about half an hour.
From week seven: solid food for life
Solid foods return gradually. Meals are small, about the size of a saucer, three times a day with one or two protein-rich snacks. Aim for the daily protein target your dietitian sets, usually 60–80 grams. Foods that commonly cause trouble at first are bread, rice, pasta, tough meat and raw fibrous vegetables. Vitamin supplements and regular blood tests continue for life.
Gastric sleeve surgery: cost in Turkey and what is included
The price depends on the technique, the extent of the procedure, the hospital, the length of stay and any procedures planned together, which is why a single figure quoted without an examination or photo assessment is misleading. After a physician has reviewed your case, New City Clinic sends you an itemised written quote. It lists hospital, surgeon and anaesthesia fees, pre-operative tests, medication, any compression garment or support bra, accommodation, airport–hotel–hospital transfers and interpreting separately; flights are not included unless stated. When comparing clinics in Istanbul, look beyond the price: check that the hospital is licensed by the Ministry of Health, what the surgeon specialises in, and how follow-up is handled once you are back home.
Gastric sleeve surgery with New City Clinic
New City Clinic is an authorised health tourism intermediary registered with the Turkish Ministry of Health and HealthTürkiye. When you contact New City Clinic about gastric sleeve surgery, a physician first reviews your photos and medical information, and you then receive a written treatment plan with an itemised quote. Once you arrive in Istanbul, the New City Clinic team organises your airport welcome, accommodation, hospital appointments and interpreting. Your procedure is performed by a specialist physician at a Ministry of Health approved partner hospital, and follow-up continues after you return home.
Recovery timeline
Weeks 1–2
Liquids only, sipped slowly; protein shakes begin.
Weeks 3–4
Smooth purées; protein first; drinks apart from meals.
Weeks 5–6
Soft foods that can be mashed with a fork.
Week 7 onwards
Solid foods in small portions; supplements for life.
Accommodation and transfers
On request, New City Clinic organises your airport–hotel–hospital transfers and your stay at partner hotels close to the hospital. The same can be arranged for a companion; details are set out in writing in your quote.
Aftercare
Medication and check-ups
Take the medication your physician prescribes as directed and attend your planned check-ups.
Smoking and alcohol
Both slow healing; avoid them before and after the procedure for the period your physician advises.
Movement and rest
Short walks support circulation; wait for your physician’s approval before strenuous exercise or heavy lifting.
When to get in touch
Contact your New City Clinic coordinator straight away in case of high fever, increasing pain, redness or anything unexpected.
Frequently asked questions
When can I drink coffee?
Usually after the first month, in moderation. Caffeine can irritate the stomach and adds to dehydration early on.
Why is protein so important?
It protects muscle while you lose weight, supports healing and helps limit hair shedding in the first months.
Can I drink alcohol?
It is best avoided for at least six months. Afterwards it is absorbed faster and adds calories without nutrition.
Deciding on gastric sleeve surgery is a confident step when it is taken with the right information and the right team. You can book a free consultation with the New City Clinic team for your questions.
This article is for general information; consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.
