Short answer
Gastric sleeve surgery (sleeve gastrectomy) is a keyhole operation that removes around 75-80% of the stomach, leaving a narrow tube that holds less food and produces less hunger hormone. The operation usually takes 1-2 hours under general anaesthesia, followed by 3-4 nights in hospital and about 7-10 days in Istanbul. Most patients return to desk work within 2-3 weeks and need lifelong diet changes and vitamin supplements.
What is gastric sleeve surgery?
Gastric sleeve surgery is a weight-loss operation that permanently reduces the stomach to a narrow sleeve. The surgeon removes the larger, stretchy part of the stomach through small keyhole incisions, so you feel full after much smaller meals.
The removed section also produces most of the hormone that drives hunger, so many patients find their appetite is noticeably lower. Unlike a bypass, the route food takes through the gut stays the same. The operation cannot be reversed.
Who is it for?
Gastric sleeve surgery is usually suitable for adults with a BMI of 40 or more, or a BMI of 35 or more with a weight-related condition such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure or sleep apnoea. You should have tried to lose weight through diet and exercise without lasting success.
A doctor assesses your suitability in person, reviewing your medical history, blood tests and medications. Surgery may not be advised if you have severe reflux, certain stomach conditions, an untreated eating disorder, or if you are not ready to commit to lifelong changes in how you eat.
- BMI 40 or above
- BMI 35 or above with a related health condition
- Willing to follow a long-term diet and vitamin plan
- Non-smoker, or able to stop before surgery
How the procedure is done
The operation is performed laparoscopically under general anaesthesia and typically takes 1-2 hours. Before surgery you have blood tests, an ECG and a consultation with the surgeon, anaesthetist and dietitian.
The surgeon makes four to five small incisions, staples the stomach along its length and removes the outer portion. A leak test checks the staple line before the incisions are closed. Your hotel, VIP transfer and medical interpreter are arranged before you land, so you can focus on preparing.
Recovery and results
Most patients walk on the day of surgery and leave hospital after 3-4 nights. You start on clear fluids, then move through purées and soft food over about four to six weeks before returning to normal textures.
Weight loss is usually fastest in the first six months and continues for 12-18 months. Results depend heavily on your eating habits and activity. Portions stay small for life, protein comes first at every meal, and you will need daily vitamins and regular blood tests. Your Metropolmed dietitian follows you for 12 months.
Risks and safety
Gastric sleeve surgery is a major operation and carries real risks. These include bleeding, infection, a leak from the staple line, blood clots and reactions to anaesthesia. Longer term, some patients develop new or worse acid reflux, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, loose skin or weight regain if old habits return.
We reduce risk with thorough pre-operative tests, blood-thinning injections, early walking and close monitoring in hospital. Metropolmed holds the Turkish Ministry of Health international patient authorisation (USHAŞ AK-0164), and your coordinator stays in touch after you go home.
Recovery timeline
- Day 1Surgery, then gentle walking the same day with nurse support.
- Days 3-4Leak check and discharge to hotel on a clear-fluid diet.
- Week 1-2Final check-up, flight home, puréed diet.
- Month 1-2Soft then normal textures, light exercise, steady weight loss.
- Month 6Fastest weight-loss phase usually slowing; blood tests checked.
- Month 12-18Weight loss typically levels off; dietitian follow-up ends at 12 months.
Frequently asked questions
How much weight will I lose after a gastric sleeve?
Most patients lose a large part of their excess weight over 12-18 months, but the amount varies widely from person to person. Your diet, activity and medical conditions all affect the result, and your surgeon will discuss realistic goals with you.
Will I need vitamins for life after a sleeve?
Yes, most patients need a daily multivitamin for life, often with vitamin B12, iron, calcium and vitamin D. Regular blood tests show whether your doses need adjusting.
Can a gastric sleeve be reversed?
No, a gastric sleeve cannot be reversed because part of the stomach is removed. If problems such as severe reflux develop, it can sometimes be converted to a gastric bypass.
When can I fly home after gastric sleeve surgery?
Most patients fly home 7-10 days after arriving in Istanbul, once the surgeon has checked their recovery. You should walk the aisle regularly and wear compression stockings on the flight.
Does gastric sleeve surgery cause acid reflux?
It can, and some patients develop new or worse reflux after a sleeve. If you already have significant reflux, your surgeon may recommend a gastric bypass instead.
