Gastric Band in Turkey
Gastric band surgery in Istanbul Care
Gastric band surgery, also known as laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding, is a popular bariatric procedure designed to aid weight loss by restricting food intake. Turkey has emerged as a leading destination for this surgery, offering advanced medical facilities and experienced surgeons at competitive prices.
What is Adjustable Gastric Banding?
Adjustable gastric banding involves placing a silicone band around the upper portion of the stomach to create a small pouch. This pouch limits the amount of food the stomach can hold, leading to a feeling of fullness after consuming smaller portions. The band's tightness can be adjusted by adding or removing saline through a port placed under the skin, allowing for personalized control over food intake.
What is LAP-BAND Surgery?
LAP-BAND surgery is a specific type of adjustable gastric banding system. The procedure is minimally invasive, performed laparoscopically through small incisions. Surgeons place the band around the upper stomach, and its tightness is adjusted over time to control food intake and promote weight loss.
Is LAP-BAND Surgery for Me?
Candidates for LAP-BAND surgery are generally individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or those with a BMI of 35 or above who also suffer from obesity-related medical conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea. A comprehensive consultation with a qualified bariatric surgeon is essential to evaluate overall health, assess eligibility, and determine whether LAP-BAND surgery is the most appropriate option to achieve sustainable weight loss goals.
Is There a Removal of LAP-BAND After I Reach My Goal Weight?
The LAP-BAND is designed to be a long-term implant. While it can be removed if necessary, it's generally left in place even after reaching the desired weight to help maintain weight loss. Removal may be considered in cases of complications or personal preference, but this decision should be made in consultation with your surgeon.
What Can I Expect After Surgery?
Recovery after gastric band surgery varies depending on the patient’s overall health, adherence to dietary guidelines, and individual healing response.
✔ Days 1–3 – Rest is essential; patients should consume
clear liquids only to allow the stomach to heal.
✔ First Week – Gradual transition to
liquid and pureed foods under medical guidance.
✔ Weeks 2–4 – Introduction of
soft foods in small portions.
✔ After One Month – Progression to
solid foods, focusing on portion control and mindful eating.
Patients must strictly follow their surgeon’s post-operative instructions and attend scheduled follow-up appointments for gastric band adjustments, which are essential for safe and effective weight loss.
Benefits of Gastric Band Surgery
Gastric banding provides several distinct advantages compared to other bariatric weight loss procedures:
✔ Minimally Invasive – No cutting, stapling, or permanent alteration of the stomach.
✔ Adjustable & Reversible – The band can be tightened or loosened to optimize results,
and removed if necessary.
✔ Faster Recovery Time – Most patients return to daily activities within
1–2 weeks.
✔ Gradual & Sustainable Weight Loss – Supports a steady loss of
0.5–1 kg (1–2 pounds) per week, promoting long-term success.
This safe and long-term weight management solution helps patients achieve lasting weight loss, improve obesity-related health conditions, and adopt healthier lifestyle habits over time.
How Does Gastric Banding Help Patients Lose Weight?
Gastric banding supports weight loss through a combination of mechanical restriction and controlled satiety:
- Restricting Food Intake – A small upper stomach pouch limits the amount of food that can be consumed in one sitting.
- Slowing Digestion – The narrow passage between the pouch and the rest of the stomach delays food movement, helping patients feel full for longer.
- Adjustable Control – The tightness of the band can be fine-tuned through follow-up adjustments to match individual weight loss progress and tolerance.
Together, these mechanisms help patients reduce calorie intake and support gradual, sustainable weight loss rather than rapid, hard-to-maintain results.
Who Qualifies for LAP-BAND Surgery?
LAP-BAND surgery may be suitable for individuals who meet the following criteria:
- Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35+ with obesity-related medical conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea.
- Previous weight loss attempts have been unsuccessful despite structured diet and exercise programs.
- Willingness to commit to long-term lifestyle changes, including dietary compliance, regular follow-up visits, and band adjustments.
A comprehensive medical and nutritional evaluation is essential to confirm eligibility and ensure that gastric banding is the safest and most effective option.
The LAP-BAND System Advantage
The LAP-BAND system provides several important advantages for patients seeking a controlled and less invasive surgical weight loss solution:
- Minimally Invasive Procedure – Performed using a laparoscopic technique, resulting in smaller incisions, reduced post-operative pain, and a faster recovery period.
- Adjustable and Reversible – The band’s tightness can be customized over time through simple adjustments, and the device can be safely removed if needed.
- Lower Risk of Nutrient Deficiencies – Unlike malabsorptive bariatric surgeries, gastric banding does not alter digestion or nutrient absorption.
These benefits make the LAP-BAND an appealing option for patients who prefer a gradual, adjustable, and reversible approach to surgical weight loss.
What to Expect During & After Your Procedure
During Surgery:
- The surgeon places the gastric band laparoscopically using small, minimally invasive incisions.
- The band is positioned around the upper portion of the stomach, creating a small pouch that limits food intake.
- A small adjustment port is placed beneath the skin, allowing future tightening or loosening of the band.
✔ After Surgery:
- Most patients return home the same day or after a brief hospital observation period.
- The recovery process typically lasts 1–2 weeks, with a gradual return to daily activities.
- The first band adjustment is usually performed 4–6 weeks after surgery, once initial healing is complete.
Proper post-operative care and regular follow-ups optimize weight loss results and minimize potential complications.
Risk Factors of Gastric Band Surgery
Although gastric band surgery is considered a safe and well-established procedure, it is important to be aware of certain potential risks:
✔ Band Slippage – In some cases, the band may move from its original position, requiring adjustment or removal.
✔ Infection – Rare and usually manageable with antibiotics or, if necessary, minor surgical treatment.
✔ Esophageal Dilation – Overeating or improper eating habits may cause stretching of the esophagus.
✔ Acid Reflux – Some patients may experience heartburn or indigestion, especially in the early stages.
✔ Insufficient Weight Loss – Long-term success depends heavily on dietary discipline and lifestyle commitment.
Selecting an experienced bariatric surgeon and strictly following post-operative guidelines plays a crucial role in minimizing risks and achieving sustainable weight loss.
LAP-BAND System Overview
The LAP-BAND system comprises:
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The Silicone Band: Placed around the upper stomach to create a small pouch.
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Access Port: Located under the skin, allowing for adjustments to the band's tightness by adding or removing saline.
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Connecting Tubing: Links the band to the access port, facilitating fluid transfer.
This design enables personalized adjustments to support ongoing weight loss.
Types of Bariatric Surgery
Beyond gastric banding, other bariatric surgeries include:
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Gastric Bypass: Creating a small stomach pouch and rerouting the small intestine to this pouch, reducing calorie absorption.
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Sleeve Gastrectomy: Removing a portion of the stomach to create a tube-like structure, limiting food intake.
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Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch: Combining sleeve gastrectomy with intestinal bypass, leading to significant weight loss.
Each procedure has distinct benefits and considerations; a consultation with a bariatric specialist can help determine the most suitable option.
How Surgery Works
Gastric band surgery involves:
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Anesthesia Administration: General anesthesia ensures the patient is asleep and pain-free.
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Laparoscopic Technique: Small incisions are made, and a camera guides the surgeon.
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Band Placement: The silicone band is positioned around the upper stomach.
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Port Installation: A port is placed under the skin for future adjustments.
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Closure: Incisions are closed with sutures or surgical glue.
The procedure typically lasts about an hour, and patients may return home the same day or after an overnight stay.
Are You a Candidate for Weight Loss Surgery?
You may be a candidate if you:
- BMI of 40 or higher or BMI of 35+ with obesity-related conditions.
- Struggle with weight loss through diet and exercise.
- Are committed to long-term lifestyle changes and follow-up care.
- Do not have conditions that would interfere with surgery or recovery.
A thorough medical evaluation with a qualified bariatric surgeon is necessary to determine eligibility for gastric band surgery.
Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding
Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) is a minimally invasive procedure that involves placing a silicone band around the upper stomach to restrict food intake.
Key Benefits of LAGB
- Less invasive than other bariatric surgeries
- Shorter recovery time and minimal scarring
- The band is adjustable and reversible
- No permanent changes to the stomach or intestines
This adjustable and customizable approach makes LAGB an excellent option for weight loss.
What to Expect Before Your Surgery
Preparation is essential for a successful procedure and smooth recovery.
Pre-Surgery Guidelines
- Medical Evaluation – Undergo tests and consultations.
- Dietary Adjustments – Follow a pre-op diet to reduce liver size.
- Stop Smoking – At least two weeks before surgery.
- Avoid Blood Thinners – No aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Hydration & Nutrition – Stay hydrated and consume essential vitamins.
Proper preparation reduces complications and improves post-surgical results.
Gastric Band Surgery Cost in Turkey
Gastric banding in Turkey is more affordable than in the U.S. or Europe while maintaining high medical standards.
| Country | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Turkey | $2,500 – $4,000 |
| UK | £6,000 – £8,500 |
| USA | $8,000 – $15,000 |
- Affordable Prices – Turkey offers significant savings on weight loss procedures.
- Experienced Surgeons – Board-certified bariatric specialists.
- Luxury Facilities – World-class hospitals and advanced medical technology.
- Comprehensive Packages – Surgery, aftercare, accommodation, and transportation included.
This cost-effective solution allows international patients to achieve their weight loss goals with professional medical support.