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 typically have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 with obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes or hypertension. It’s essential to have a thorough consultation with a qualified bariatric surgeon to determine if this procedure aligns with your weight loss goals and health status.
What Can I Expect After Surgery?
Recovery after gastric band surgery varies from patient to patient.
✔ Day 1-3 – Rest and consume only clear liquids.
✔ First Week – Transition to liquid and pureed foods.
✔ Week 2-4 – Slowly introduce soft foods.
✔ After One Month – Begin eating solid foods but in smaller portions.
Patients must follow their surgeon’s instructions and attend follow-up appointments for band adjustments.
Benefits of Gastric Band Surgery
Gastric banding offers several advantages over other weight loss procedures:
✔ Less Invasive – No cutting or stapling of the stomach.
✔ Adjustable & Reversible – The band can be tightened or loosened as needed.
✔ Faster Recovery – Most patients return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks.
✔ Gradual Weight Loss – Helps patients lose 1-2 pounds per week in a sustainable manner.
This effective, long-term solution helps individuals achieve and maintain weight loss while improving their overall health.
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.
How Does Gastric Banding Help Patients Lose Weight?
Gastric banding promotes weight loss by:
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Restricting Food Intake: The small stomach pouch limits the amount of food consumed.
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Slowing Digestion: The narrow opening slows the passage of food, prolonging fullness.
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Adjustable Control: The band’s tightness can be modified to meet individual weight loss needs.
This combination helps patients reduce calorie intake and fosters sustainable weight loss.
Who Qualifies for LAP-BAND Surgery?
Ideal candidates for LAP-BAND surgery include individuals who:
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Have a BMI of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 with obesity-related health issues.
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Have been unable to achieve significant weight loss through diet and exercise.
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Are prepared to commit to long-term lifestyle changes and follow-up care.
A comprehensive medical evaluation is necessary to determine eligibility.
The LAP-BAND System Advantage
The LAP-BAND system offers several benefits:
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Minimally Invasive Procedure: Laparoscopic approach results in smaller incisions and quicker recovery.
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Adjustable and Reversible: The band’s tightness can be modified, and it can be removed if necessary.
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Reduced Risk of Nutrient Deficiencies: Unlike other bariatric surgeries, gastric banding doesn’t affect nutrient absorption.
These advantages make it a preferred choice for many seeking surgical weight loss solutions.
What to Expect During & After Your Procedure
✔ During Surgery:
- The surgeon inserts the band laparoscopically through small incisions.
- The band is placed around the upper stomach.
- The port is positioned under the skin for adjustments.
✔ After Surgery:
- Most patients go home the same day or after a short hospital stay.
- Recovery typically takes 1-2 weeks.
- The first band adjustment is done 4-6 weeks post-surgery.
Proper post-op care ensures effective weight loss and reduces complications.
Risk Factors of Gastric Band Surgery
Although gastric band surgery is safe, there are potential risks to consider:
✔ Band Slippage – The band may shift, requiring adjustment or removal.
✔ Infection – Rare but treatable with antibiotics or surgical intervention.
✔ Esophageal Dilation – Overeating may stretch the esophagus.
✔ Acid Reflux – Some patients experience heartburn or indigestion.
✔ Insufficient Weight Loss – Results depend on commitment to lifestyle changes.
Choosing an experienced surgeon and following post-op guidelines can reduce these risks significantly.
Gastric Band in Turkey Before & After
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.
Standard Packages
For Gastric Band in Turkey, you will stay 1 night in the hospital + 3 nights in a VIP hotel
- Accommodation in a VIP hotel
- All transfers between the airport and hotel with a VIP car
- All internal transfers between the hotel and hospital
- Medical consultation and examination
- Preoperative evaluation and tests
- Private hospital room for the night of the procedure
2 follow-up appointments with the doctor after the procedure
- Anesthesia
- Nursing care facilities
- Medical equipment
- Medications
- Post-operative check-up and post-operative instructions
- Final check-up before departure
- Lifetime assistance
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- Consultation & Hairline planning by Our Plastic Surgeon
- DHI or Sapphire FUE hair transplant surgery after an online consultation with a consultant
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- Prp ( One session)
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- Sedation ( No pain during the numbing process)
- Blood tests
- All the required medications
- 6-month Aftercare supplements
- 5-star Hotel Accommodation (3 Nights)
- Check up and first wash on the following day
- Travel Health Insurance: Travel confidently—protect your hair transplant journey. Stay covered for any illness or injury abroad.
- Personal translator available at all times
- Airport and internal transfers
- 12 months of online post-operation follow-ups.
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.
Speak with our expert Gastric Band specialists
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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.
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost of gastric band surgery in Turkey varies depending on the clinic and the specifics of the procedure. On average, prices range from $1,500 to $4,560.
Turkey offers competitive pricing for medical procedures due to lower operational costs and a favorable exchange rate. Despite the affordability, many Turkish clinics maintain high standards of care and are accredited by international organizations.
Several factors can affect the overall cost:
- Clinic Reputation: Renowned clinics may charge higher fees.
- Surgeon’s Experience: Highly experienced surgeons might have higher consultation and surgery fees.
- Included Services: Some packages include additional services like accommodation, airport transfers, and post-operative care, which can influence the total cost.
While many clinics offer all-inclusive packages, it’s essential to confirm what is covered. Additional expenses may include pre-operative tests, post-operative medications, extended hospital stays, or personal travel expenses.
Yes, many Turkish clinics are internationally accredited and adhere to global medical standards. Surgeons often have extensive experience, and facilities are equipped with modern technology. However, it’s crucial to research and choose a reputable clinic.
To select a reputable clinic:
- Verify Accreditations: Look for international certifications.
- Read Patient Reviews: Seek testimonials from previous patients.
- Consult Directly: Communicate with the clinic to assess their responsiveness and professionalism.
Some clinics may offer financing plans or payment options for international patients. It’s advisable to discuss payment structures directly with the clinic and explore potential medical loans or financing options in your home country.