Bariatric Surgery (Gastric Sleeve & Bypass)
Laparoscopic surgery for lasting weight loss.
At New City Clinic, Bariatric Surgery is performed in Istanbul by specialist physicians at partner hospitals licensed by the Turkish Ministry of Health.

Bariatric Surgery in Istanbul: overview
Bariatric surgery is for people whose body mass index is above a certain level and who have not achieved lasting weight loss through diet and exercise. A gastric sleeve reduces the volume of the stomach; a gastric bypass additionally shortens the path along which food is absorbed. The general surgeon decides which method is suitable based on your tests, any accompanying conditions and your eating habits.
| Anaesthesia | General anaesthesia |
|---|---|
| Procedure time | 1–2 hours |
| Hospital stay | 2–3 nights |
| Stay in Türkiye | 5–7 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?
Weight-loss (bariatric) surgery is generally considered for adults with a BMI of 40 or more, or 35 or more with weight-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure or sleep apnoea, when diet and exercise have not given lasting results. Current international guidance also allows selected patients with a lower BMI and metabolic disease to be assessed. The decision is made by the surgical team after tests, together with a dietitian and, where needed, a psychological assessment.
The bariatric procedures
Each operation has its own page with how it works, who it suits and the recovery:
Sleeve, bypass or mini bypass: how the choice is made
A gastric sleeve reduces the size of the stomach and is the most common operation. A gastric bypass also reroutes the intestine; it is often preferred with significant reflux or type 2 diabetes. The mini (one-anastomosis) bypass is a variant with a single connection. The surgeon recommends the operation according to your BMI, reflux, diabetes, eating habits and previous surgery.
Life after surgery
Surgery is a tool, not a cure on its own. You move from liquids to purées and then to solid food over several weeks, eat small portions slowly, and take vitamin and mineral supplements, which after a bypass are lifelong. Regular blood tests and dietitian follow-up help protect your health and the result.
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 1–2 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 5–7 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 is usual. A staged diet of liquids and purées is followed in the first weeks, and dietitian follow-up continues after surgery.
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 Bariatric Surgery 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 Bariatric Surgery 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 Bariatric Surgery take?
The procedure takes about 1–2 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 5–7 days; your physician confirms the exact length at your check-up.
Is Bariatric Surgery 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 Bariatric Surgery 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.
How much weight will I lose?
It varies from person to person and depends on the operation and on diet and activity afterwards; your surgeon explains what is realistic in your case. No result can be guaranteed.
Can I have the operation if I have type 2 diabetes?
Yes, diabetes is one of the main reasons the operation is considered; the type of operation is chosen with this in mind.
Is Bariatric Surgery in Turkey safe?
Like any operation, Bariatric Surgery 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 Bariatric Surgery 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.

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