Gastric Bypass
Metabolic surgery for obesity and type 2 diabetes.
At New City Clinic, Gastric Bypass is performed in Istanbul by specialist physicians at partner hospitals licensed by the Turkish Ministry of Health.

Gastric Bypass in Istanbul: overview
In a gastric bypass, a small stomach pouch is created at the top of the stomach and a section of the small intestine is bypassed and connected to it. Both the amount eaten and nutrient absorption are reduced; it can also have a positive effect on type 2 diabetes and reflux. The procedure is done laparoscopically. At New City Clinic the general surgeon decides between a sleeve and a bypass according to your tests and any accompanying conditions.
| Anaesthesia | General anaesthesia |
|---|---|
| Procedure time | 2–3 hours |
| Hospital stay | 2–3 nights |
| Stay in Türkiye | 6–8 days |
| Back to work | 14 days |
| Back to sport | 6 weeks |
| Compression garment | Not needed |
| Final result | 18 months |
| Scar | A few small incisions in the abdomen (keyhole) |
Who is it for?
A gastric bypass suits adults who meet the criteria for bariatric surgery, especially those with significant reflux or type 2 diabetes, or a high BMI. It requires lifelong vitamin supplements and regular blood tests, so commitment to follow-up is important.
How a bypass works
A small stomach pouch is created and connected directly to a lower part of the small intestine, so food bypasses most of the stomach and the first part of the intestine. Portions become smaller and the hormonal changes often improve blood sugar control.
Vitamins and long-term follow-up
Because food bypasses part of the intestine, iron, vitamin B12, calcium, vitamin D and other nutrients are absorbed less well. Supplements are taken for life and blood tests are checked regularly. Sweet foods can cause dumping (dizziness, sweating, cramps), which is avoided by limiting sugar.
Travelling from Europe for a bypass
Plan about 6 to 8 days in Istanbul with two or three nights in hospital. Your GP should know about the operation, because long-term blood tests are usually arranged at home. Reports are provided in English and follow-up continues remotely.
Your journey in Türkiye, step by step
- 01
Free preliminary assessment: a physician reviews your photos and medical history and you receive a written plan and quote.
- 02
Day 1 – arrival in Istanbul: you are met at the airport and taken to your hotel.
- 03
Examination day: physician's examination, blood tests and anaesthesia assessment; the plan is finalised.
- 04
Procedure day: the procedure takes about 2–3 hours under general anaesthesia. Hospital stay: 2–3 nights.
- 05
Check-up: dressing change and follow-up examination after discharge.
- 06
Return: total stay in Türkiye is 6–8 days; your physician clears you to fly. Follow-up continues remotely.
New City Clinic health tourism services
- Airport welcome and hospital–hotel transfers
- Accommodation at partner hotels close to the hospital
- Support in English, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese and Turkish
- Scheduling of examination, tests and surgery
- Post-operative check-ups and remote follow-up once you are home
- Dedicated complication insurance for operations
Recovery
A hospital stay of 2–3 nights. A staged liquid and purée diet is followed in the first weeks; lifelong vitamin and mineral supplements and regular blood tests are required.
What you should know
- Temporary swelling, bruising and tenderness
- Risk of infection and bleeding, as with any surgical procedure
- Results vary with individual anatomy and healing
Every medical procedure carries risk. Your physician will explain the risks specific to you during your examination.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Gastric Bypass cost in Turkey?
The cost depends on the scope of the procedure, the technique, the hospital and your accommodation choice. After a physician's assessment, New City Clinic sends you an itemised written quote; getting a quote is free.
What does an all-inclusive Gastric Bypass package include?
Your quote lists the hospital and physician fees, required tests, check-ups, airport–hotel–hospital transfers and, on request, hotel accommodation as separate items. Flights are not included; we can help organise them if you wish.
How long does Gastric Bypass take?
The procedure takes about 2–3 hours. Anaesthesia: general anaesthesia.
How long do I stay in hospital and in Turkey?
Hospital stay: 2–3 nights. The total stay in Türkiye is usually planned at 6–8 days; your physician confirms the exact length at your check-up.
Is Gastric Bypass in Turkey safe? What are the risks?
Every medical procedure carries risk: infection, bleeding, anaesthesia-related problems and healing that differs from what was expected are the main ones. To reduce risk, the procedure is performed by a specialist at a licensed hospital after pre-operative tests. Your physician explains the risks specific to you at your examination.
When can I go back to work and exercise?
Desk work is usually possible within 14 days and sport after 6 weeks. These times vary from person to person.
Will there be scars?
A few small incisions in the abdomen (keyhole). Scars are noticeable in the first months and fade with time; how they heal depends on your skin.
When will I see the result?
The first change is visible as swelling settles; the final result appears in about 18 months. Results vary from person to person and cannot be guaranteed.
Can I see before and after photos?
Out of respect for patient privacy and under healthcare regulations, patient photos are shared only with the patient's consent. In your consultation the physician explains what is realistic in your case.
How do I choose the best clinic for Gastric Bypass in Istanbul?
There is no single “best clinic” for everyone; for a safe choice, check these: a Health Tourism Authorisation Certificate, the name of the hospital and the operating surgeon, a written plan based on a physician's assessment, an itemised quote and aftercare. New City Clinic is an authorised intermediary registered with the Turkish Ministry of Health and HealthTürkiye; it publishes its authorisation, TÜRSAB and ISO certificates on this site and gives you all of this in writing with your quote.
Bypass or sleeve for reflux?
A bypass is usually preferred when reflux is significant, because a sleeve can make it worse.
Can a bypass help type 2 diabetes?
In many patients blood sugar control improves considerably; the effect varies and treatment is adjusted by your doctor.
Is Gastric Bypass in Turkey safe?
Like any operation, Gastric Bypass carries risks, and the risk depends far more on where and by whom it is done than on the country. The serious cases reported in the press have mostly involved unlicensed premises, non-specialists or too many procedures in one session. A safe choice means a hospital licensed by the Turkish Ministry of Health, a named specialist surgeon, an anaesthetist, pre-operative tests and a long enough stay. New City Clinic is an authorised intermediary registered with the Ministry of Health and HealthTürkiye, and you receive the hospital and surgeon details in writing before you travel.
Why is Gastric Bypass cheaper in Turkey than in the UK?
The difference comes mainly from lower operating and staff costs and the exchange rate; implants, materials and techniques follow the same international standards. Even so, do not choose on price alone: check the hospital licence, the surgeon’s specialty and exactly what the package includes.
Get your free quote today
Send your photos and questions; a surgeon’s assessment and your quote usually arrive within 24 hours. The consultation is free and without obligation.
- A surgeon’s assessment and quote, usually within 24 hours
- Free and without obligation
- We reply on WhatsApp in your language
Guides on this procedure
Articles you may want to read before deciding.

Weight Regain After Gastric Sleeve: Revision
Regaining weight after a gastric sleeve: causes, assessment, non-surgical steps, converting a sleeve to a bypass and what to expect. New City Clinic.
Read article
Gastric Sleeve vs Gastric Bypass in Istanbul, Turkey
Gastric sleeve or gastric bypass? How the two operations differ, who each suits, reflux and diabetes considerations, and recovery. A New City Clinic guide.
Read article
Gastric Bypass in Istanbul, Turkey: Am I a Candidate?
Gastric bypass explained: who qualifies, BMI, diabetes and reflux, how the operation works, vitamins for life and recovery. By New City Clinic.
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