Gastric Sleeve FAQs
If you are considering a gastric sleeve surgery in Turkey with Turkey Bariatrics, the following frequently asked questions will help you better understand the process.
Is gastric sleeve surgery reversible?
In a gastric sleeve surgery, around 75–80% of the stomach is removed and the remaining section is reshaped into a sleeve. Because part of the stomach is permanently removed, the procedure is not reversible. However, if medically necessary, it can be converted to another procedure such as a gastric bypass.
How much weight can I lose with gastric sleeve surgery?
Most patients lose approximately 60–70% of their excess weight within the first year after gastric sleeve surgery. With long-term lifestyle changes, many of our patients achieve even greater results and maintain their weight loss successfully over time.
Is gastric sleeve surgery safe?
As with all surgeries, gastric sleeve surgery carries certain risks and possible complications. However, when it is performed by an experienced bariatric surgeon in a fully equipped hospital, it is considered a safe and reliable procedure with a low complication rate.
What are the benefits of gastric sleeve surgery?
A gastric sleeve offers significant improvements in health conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnoea and joint pain. Fertility may also improve in women. Unlike the gastric band or gastric balloon, no foreign object is placed in the stomach, and unlike gastric bypass surgery, the intestines remain untouched. Reducing the stomach volume also lowers the secretion of the hunger hormone ghrelin, which helps reduce appetite.
Is there an age limit for gastric sleeve surgery?
Gastric sleeve surgery is generally suitable for individuals aged 18 to 65 with a BMI of 30 or more. Patients over 65 may also undergo surgery, provided they are in good overall health and do not have severe obesity-related conditions. Those under 18 can have the procedure with parental consent.
How long does gastric sleeve surgery take?
A typical gastric sleeve surgery takes around 1.5 hours and is performed laparoscopically under general anaesthesia. After the procedure, you will stay in the hospital for 2 nights to ensure full recovery and close monitoring.
Will I have a urinary catheter or drain after the surgery?
Yes. A urinary catheter and an abdominal drain are routinely used in both gastric sleeve and gastric bypass surgery. The catheter is usually removed after 6 hours, while the abdominal drain is removed the next morning.
How painful is gastric sleeve surgery?
Some pain is expected after surgery, but it is usually mild and well controlled with medication. In most cases, discomfort significantly decreases within the first day.
How long does recovery take after gastric sleeve surgery?
Your treatment requires a stay of 4 nights in total. You will spend the first 3 nights in the hospital, followed by 1 night in a hotel before travelling home. Recovery varies from person to person, but many can return to work and daily activities within 1 week. Full healing of the stomach usually takes 6–8 weeks, and heavy lifting should be avoided during this period.
When can I return to work after gastric sleeve surgery?
If your job does not require physical effort, you can typically return to work 1 week after surgery. For jobs that involve heavy lifting or intense physical activity, we recommend waiting 2–3 weeks.
Can I get pregnant after gastric sleeve surgery?
You will lose weight rapidly during the first 6 months after surgery, which may lead to temporary vitamin and mineral deficiencies. For this reason, pregnancy should ideally be planned 12 months after surgery to ensure a healthy outcome for both mother and baby.
When can I drive after gastric sleeve surgery?
You can safely drive again 1 week after surgery, as long as you feel comfortable and can move without pain.
When can I exercise after gastric sleeve surgery?
Exercise is an important part of achieving your weight loss goals. You can begin walking in the first week. From the second week, swimming is allowed, and by the end of the first month you may return to the gym. However, weightlifting and abdominal exercises should be avoided for 6–8 weeks.
When can I shower after gastric sleeve surgery?
A surgical drain is placed in the abdomen during the operation and is typically removed on the first postoperative day. You may take a shower 24 hours after the drain is removed. After showering, gently dry the incision areas and keep them dry for 2 weeks.
Can I drink alcohol after gastric sleeve surgery?
Alcohol is not recommended during the first year after surgery. If you choose to drink later on, it should be limited to special occasions and consumed in small amounts. Alcohol is high in calories and may slow down the weight loss process.
Can I drink coffee after gastric sleeve surgery?
Because caffeine can delay wound healing, we recommend drinking decaffeinated coffee during the first month. After that, you may drink up to two espressos per day.
How should I eat after gastric sleeve surgery?
For the first 10 days, you will follow a liquid diet, including soups (beef, chicken, fish or bone broth), lactose-free milk, yoghurt and fruit juice. If you do not have blood pressure issues, salt may be consumed, but we advise avoiding spices for the first two months.
Between days 10 and 20, you will follow a puree diet, eating foods such as eggs, cheese, vegetables, fruit, meat, chicken and fish—all blended into a soft consistency. After this period, you can begin your solid food phase. You may eat the same foods as in the puree phase but without blending, and we recommend chewing each bite for 10–15 seconds.