Bariatric refers to the branch of medicine that deals with the causes, prevention, and treatment of obesity. Bariatric surgery includes weight-loss procedures like gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and lap band surgery, which help patients lose significant amounts of weight and improve obesity-related health conditions.

Roux-en-Y (RNY) gastric bypass is a type of weight-loss surgery in which the stomach is divided into a small upper pouch and a larger lower "remnant" portion. The small intestine is rearranged to connect to both. This reduces the stomach's capacity and alters how the body absorbs calories and nutrients, making it one of the most effective bariatric surgeries for long-term weight loss. Patients can expect significant weight loss, but the procedure is more complex than other forms of bariatric surgery, requiring... +More

Ozempic is a prescription medication used primarily to treat type 2 diabetes but has recently gained attention for its off-label use in promoting weight loss. Ozempic contains semaglutide, which helps regulate blood sugar and appetite, making it an effective treatment for individuals struggling with obesity. Weight loss clinics in Turkey may prescribe Ozempic as part of a broader weight management program.

Slimming injections like Wegovy or Saxenda are used to assist with weight loss by controlling appetite and hunger. These injections are prescribed for individuals who struggle with obesity or weight-related health issues and have not been able to lose weight through diet and exercise alone.

Common VSG side effects include nausea, vomiting, acid reflux, and constipation due to the smaller stomach size. Nutrient deficiencies, like vitamin B12 and iron, may occur if patients don't follow their prescribed supplements. Long-term complications can include weight regain or the development of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Sleeve bariatric surgery, also known as Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG), is a restrictive procedure where 80% of the stomach is removed. This reduces stomach capacity, limiting food intake and helping with significant weight loss. It is one of the most popular forms of bariatric surgery due to its effectiveness and relatively lower risk compared to bypass surgeries.

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB) is a popular form of bariatric surgery that reduces the size of the stomach and reroutes the digestive system. This results in both restriction of food intake and malabsorption, leading to significant weight loss. The surgery is considered highly effective for morbidly obese individuals and also helps improve obesity-related health issues like diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea. However, it requires lifelong dietary changes and nutritional supplements to avoid deficiencies.

Before-and-after images of gastric sleeve patients highlight not only the weight loss but also the excess skin that may remain, especially in areas like the abdomen. Many patients opt for skin removal surgeries after achieving their weight-loss goals.

Weight-loss surgery, or bariatric surgery, includes procedures like gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and gastric banding. These surgeries are recommended for individuals with severe obesity who have not been able to lose weight through diet and exercise alone.

Sleeve surgery is another term for the gastric sleeve procedure, where most of the stomach is removed to help patients achieve significant weight loss. The procedure is less invasive than other forms of bariatric surgery, like the Roux-en-Y bypass, but still offers dramatic weight-loss results.

A "belly doctor" typically refers to a gastroenterologist, a specialist who treats conditions affecting the stomach and digestive system. Patients see belly doctors for issues like ulcers, acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and chronic stomach pain. Bariatric patients often consult gastroenterologists for pre- and post-surgery care to ensure their digestive systems are functioning well after surgeries like gastric bypass.

The gastric balloon is a non-surgical weight-loss option where a balloon is inserted into the stomach and inflated to reduce food intake. In the UK, this procedure typically costs between £1,450 and £1,450, depending on the clinic and the type of balloon used.

The "Skinny Pen" refers to a weight-loss medication called liraglutide (brand name Saxenda) that is administered through a daily injection. It works by mimicking a hormone that regulates appetite, helping patients feel fuller for longer. This treatment is often used for individuals who struggle with obesity but are not candidates for surgery or who need additional help in managing their weight post-bariatric surgery. The drug is available by prescription and is used in conjunction with diet and exercise.

The death rate for gastric sleeve surgery in Turkey is extremely low, with rates similar to those in Western countries. With advancements in laparoscopic surgery and highly trained bariatric surgeons, the mortality rate is estimated to be less than 0.1%. Most complications are manageable and arise from issues such as leaks or infections.

The choice between gastric sleeve surgery and gastric bypass depends on individual factors. The sleeve is less invasive and focuses solely on restricting stomach size, while the bypass alters both stomach size and digestive processes. Bypass surgery often results in more weight loss but comes with higher risks of malabsorption and complications.