The gastric sleeve is the most commonly performed bariatric operation worldwide. Yet success depends not only on the surgery but on proper assessment beforehand and long-term follow-up afterwards. In this guide New City Clinic explains the whole gastric sleeve process.
Who is a gastric sleeve for?
Bariatric surgery is generally considered for people with a body mass index of 40 or above, or 35 or above with an accompanying condition such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure or sleep apnoea. The decision is made by a general surgeon after thorough testing that includes endocrinology, cardiology, anaesthesia and, where needed, psychiatric assessment. The BMI calculator on our home page can give you a first idea.
How is the surgery performed?
A gastric sleeve is done laparoscopically (keyhole) through a few small incisions and usually takes 1–1.5 hours. Around 75–80 per cent of the stomach is removed, leaving a tube-shaped stomach. Stomach volume is reduced and the part that produces most of the hunger hormone is removed. The procedure is irreversible, so the decision is made only after the risks and alternatives have been discussed in detail.
A Gastric Sleeve: 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.
A Gastric Sleeve 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 a Gastric Sleeve, 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
2–3 nights in hospital
Leak tests are carried out; you start walking and drinking on the first day.
First 2 weeks
Liquids only; most patients can fly on day 5–7 after their check-up.
Weeks 2–6
A gradual move to purées and soft foods, following the dietitian’s plan.
Months 12–18
Most weight loss occurs in this period; vitamin supplements and blood tests continue.
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
How much weight will I lose?
Results vary from person to person. Patients who follow the diet plan and follow-up lose most of their excess weight in the first 12–18 months.
Will I need vitamins after surgery?
Yes. Regular vitamin and mineral supplements and periodic blood tests are part of long-term follow-up.
Can the weight come back?
Weight can return if dietary and lifestyle changes are not maintained. New City Clinic makes sure your dietitian follow-up continues after you return home.
Deciding on a Gastric Sleeve 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.
