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Bariatric Surgery: A Life-Changing Step Towards Health | Forever Clinica

Hello dear Forever Clinica family! Today, we want to talk to you about the effective, reliable, and permanent solutions we offer in the fight against obesity, one of the most significant health issues of our time. Obesity is not just an aesthetic concern; it’s a chronic disease that lowers our quality of life and leads to serious health problems. But don’t worry, with the right treatment methods and an expert team, you can overcome obesity and achieve the healthy life you’ve always dreamed of.

In this article, we at Forever Clinica will explain everything you need to know about bariatric surgery, obesity surgery, and general obesity treatment in detail. You’ll find answers to frequently asked questions, learn about the process transparently, and clear up any doubts you might have. If you’re ready, let’s embark on this important health journey together! All our procedures are performed in our state-of-the-art facility in Istanbul, Turkey.

What is Obesity? Why Is It So Important?

First, let’s get to know obesity better. Obesity is a chronic health problem that arises from the excessive and abnormal accumulation of fat in the body, negatively affecting life expectancy and quality, and requiring treatment. Simply put, when we consume more calories than we burn, our body stores this excess energy as fat, and over time, this accumulation can reach serious proportions.

When diagnosing obesity, one of the most commonly used and accepted methods in modern medicine is the Body Mass Index (BMI) calculation. BMI is a value obtained by dividing your weight by the square of your height, indicating which category you fall into:

• 18.5 – 24.9: Congratulations, you’re at a normal weight! Maintain your healthy lifestyle.
• 25 – 29.9: You are overweight. While not yet in the obesity category, it’s beneficial to take precautions for your health.
• 30 and above: You are now in the obesity class. At this point, health risks begin to increase, and consulting a specialist is of great importance.
• 40 and above: This condition is called morbid obesity. It signifies severe obesity and can be accompanied by serious health problems. It often requires surgical intervention.

So, why is obesity so important? Because obesity, beyond being a disease itself, invites many serious health problems. It can be the primary cause or trigger for numerous conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), heart disease, stroke, sleep apnea, joint problems (arthritis), certain types of cancer, fatty liver, and even psychological disorders. Therefore, taking obesity seriously and taking the necessary steps means not only losing weight but also living a longer, healthier, and higher-quality life.

Obesity Treatment Methods: Personalized Solutions

At Forever Clinica, we understand that every individual is different when it comes to obesity treatment. Therefore, we conduct a detailed assessment to determine the most suitable treatment method for you. In obesity treatment, surgical and non-surgical methods are primarily applied. The best approach for you is decided in consultation with your doctor after a comprehensive examination and discussion.

1. Non-Surgical Obesity Treatments: The First Steps

In cases of mild to moderate obesity, or when surgery is not suitable, non-surgical methods come into play. These methods aim to achieve weight loss through lifestyle changes and medical interventions:

• Diet and Nutritional Counseling: Healthy eating is the cornerstone of weight management. Personalized nutrition programs are created with the guidance of a dietitian, aiming to develop balanced and adequate eating habits. Portion control, proper food selection, and regular meals are of great importance during this process. At Forever Clinica, our nutrition specialists guide you by preparing sustainable diet programs tailored to your taste and lifestyle.
• Exercise Programs: Regular physical activity accelerates metabolism, supports fat burning, and increases muscle mass. Various programs such as cardio, strength training, or flexibility exercises can be applied according to individual needs and physical condition. Remember, the best exercise is the one you can do regularly! At Forever Clinica, we also provide support in determining the most suitable exercises for you.
• Medication Treatments: Under the supervision of a doctor, certain medications that suppress appetite or reduce fat absorption may be used. However, these medications are usually not sufficient on their own and should be used short-term, in conjunction with other treatment methods, and always under medical supervision. It should be remembered that every medication can have side effects.
• Endoscopic Methods (Gastric Balloon, Gastric Botox, etc.): These methods, which are less invasive than surgery, involve intervention in the stomach with the help of an endoscope (a tube with a camera):
  • Gastric Balloon: A silicone balloon is endoscopically placed into the stomach, reducing stomach volume and creating a feeling of fullness, thus decreasing the need to eat less. It usually remains in the stomach for a specific period (e.g., 6-12 months) and is then removed endoscopically. This method can serve as a bridge for patients who are not suitable for surgery or need to lose weight before surgery.
  • Gastric Botox: Botox is injected into specific areas of the stomach to reduce the contraction strength of the stomach muscles and prolong stomach emptying time. This provides a longer feeling of fullness and reduces the desire to eat. Its effect is temporary (usually 4-6 months) and may need to be repeated.

These non-surgical methods can be effective, especially in mild to moderate obesity. However, for individuals with severe obesity and those with serious obesity-related health problems, bariatric surgery offers more permanent and significant results and is often the preferred option.

2. Bariatric Surgery (Obesity Surgery): Permanent and Effective Solutions

Bariatric surgery, popularly known as stomach surgery or weight loss surgery, aims to restrict food intake or reduce nutrient absorption through surgical procedures on the stomach and intestinal system. This allows patients to feel full with less food, absorb fewer calories from the foods they eat, and consequently achieve permanent weight loss. At Forever Clinica, located in Istanbul, Turkey, we use the latest and most reliable surgical techniques to provide our patients with a comfortable and successful process.

The most common and effective bariatric surgeries performed today include:

• a) Sleeve Gastrectomy (Tube Stomach Surgery): This surgery has been the most preferred obesity surgery method worldwide and in Turkey in recent years. During the procedure, a large portion of the stomach (approximately 80%, usually including the fundus region where the hunger hormone ghrelin is secreted) is permanently removed, and the stomach is transformed into a thin, tube-like shape, resembling a banana.
  • How It Works: Since the stomach volume is reduced, patients feel full with less food. Additionally, because the region where the ghrelin hormone is secreted is removed, appetite decreases. This not only allows for less physical eating but also psychologically suppresses the desire to eat.
  • Advantages: It’s a relatively shorter surgery. Since the intestinal anatomy does not change, the risk of vitamin and mineral deficiency is lower compared to gastric bypass. It provides effective and permanent weight loss. Significant improvement is observed in co-morbidities like diabetes.
  • Forever Clinica Approach: Sleeve gastrectomy is performed using a laparoscopic (keyhole) method, meaning several small incisions are made in the abdominal area. This reduces post-operative pain, speeds up the recovery process, and provides better cosmetic results. Our surgeons, specializing in this field in Istanbul, Turkey, are among the most experienced.
• b) Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass): Gastric bypass is a combined surgery that both reduces stomach volume and decreases nutrient absorption. During the procedure, a small upper portion of the stomach (approximately 30-50 ml) is separated to form a new stomach pouch. Then, a part of the small intestine is connected to this new stomach pouch. The remaining larger part of the intestines is connected further down the new path that handles nutrient absorption.
  • How It Works: The small stomach pouch allows for feeling full with less food. Additionally, since food bypasses a portion of the small intestine and goes directly to later sections, nutrient absorption is reduced. This particularly restricts the absorption of sugary and fatty foods.
  • Advantages: Weight loss can be faster and greater than with sleeve gastrectomy. It is very effective in treating Type 2 diabetes; in fact, cases where diabetes regresses or completely disappears shortly after surgery are common. It is also a suitable option for patients experiencing reflux symptoms.
  • Forever Clinica Approach: Gastric bypass is also typically performed using the laparoscopic method. Since this surgery requires more complex procedures, the surgeon’s experience is of great importance. At Forever Clinica in Istanbul, Turkey, our specialized surgeons perform this surgery safely and effectively.
• c) Gastric Banding: This method involves placing a silicone band around the upper part of the stomach to restrict food intake. The band can be tightened or loosened via an adjustable port placed externally.
  • Why It’s Less Preferred Now: Although popular in the past, it is less preferred today compared to other methods. Reasons include complications such as band slippage, erosion, infection risk, and insufficient long-term weight loss. Additionally, the patient needs to visit the doctor regularly for band adjustments.
  • Forever Clinica Approach: At Forever Clinica, we generally prioritize methods like sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass due to their more permanent and reliable results. However, this method is not entirely disregarded and may be considered in rare cases depending on the patient’s specific condition.
• d) Transit Bipartition (Metabolic Surgery for Diabetes): Transit bipartition is a metabolic surgery method developed specifically for patients with uncontrollable Type 2 diabetes alongside obesity. In this surgery, the stomach is made into a tube (sleeve gastrectomy part), and the last part of the small intestine (ileum) is connected to the last part of the stomach (antrum) to allow food to pass through both the normal path and the newly created path.
  • How It Works: It aids in weight loss by reducing stomach volume and also improves blood sugar control by regulating the secretion of intestinal hormones. Thanks to the newly created path, food reaches the last part of the intestine faster, and hormones like GLP-1 secreted there increase insulin release.
  • Advantages: It provides both effective weight loss and is highly successful in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes. The risk of vitamin and mineral deficiency is lower compared to gastric bypass.
  • Forever Clinica Approach: In cases of morbid obesity accompanied by diabetes, transit bipartition is a powerful option that significantly improves the patient’s quality of life and reduces the need for medication. Our team follows the latest approaches in this field to offer our patients the most suitable surgical solution, all performed in our Istanbul, Turkey clinic.

Who is Bariatric Surgery Suitable For? Eligibility Criteria

Bariatric surgery is not a one-size-fits-all solution. These surgeries are a serious treatment option for patients who meet specific criteria and have not benefited from other treatment methods. At Forever Clinica, located in Istanbul, Turkey, we apply a meticulous evaluation process to ensure our patients’ safety and the success of the surgery. Generally, suitable candidates for bariatric surgery should meet the following criteria:

✅ BMI (Body Mass Index) of 40 and above (Morbidly Obese): This is one of the most fundamental criteria. For individuals who are in the severe obesity class and carry associated health risks, surgery may be the most effective solution.

✅ BMI between 35-40 with co-morbidities: If your BMI is in this range and you have serious obesity-related health problems such as Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, severe joint problems, or heart conditions, bariatric surgery might be a suitable option for you. In such cases, surgery plays a critical role in controlling or improving these co-morbidities.

✅ Individuals who have tried non-surgical methods like diet and exercise for at least 6 months without success: Bariatric surgery should be considered a last resort. Surgical options are evaluated when sufficient and permanent weight loss cannot be achieved with non-surgical methods. This also indicates the patient’s potential to adapt to lifestyle changes after surgery.

✅ Patients between 18-65 years of age: Generally, this age range is preferred. However, in special circumstances (e.g., very severe obesity in adolescents or significant co-morbidities in older patients), the age limit can be relaxed with a doctor’s evaluation. Our Forever Clinica team in Istanbul, Turkey, thoroughly assesses each patient’s individual situation.

✅ Individuals without alcohol or substance dependency: It is important that the person does not have a dependency issue for successful adaptation to post-operative lifestyle changes and recovery.

✅ Psychiatrically suitable for surgery: Motivation, dietary discipline, and psychological adaptation are crucial in the post-operative period. Therefore, it must be confirmed that patients are psychiatrically suitable for surgery, meaning they do not have a severe psychiatric illness or that it is under control. If necessary, a pre-operative psychologist or psychiatrist evaluation is conducted.

Advantages of Bariatric Surgery: How Will Your Life Change?

Bariatric surgery does not just lead to weight loss; it brings about noticeable improvements in many areas of your life. The main advantages of this surgery include:

• ✔ Rapid and Permanent Weight Loss: Patients are expected to lose 60-80% of their excess weight within the first 12-18 months after surgery. Most importantly, this weight loss can be maintained in the long term.
• ✔ Improvement or Complete Resolution of Conditions Like Type 2 Diabetes, Hypertension: Bariatric surgery is incredibly effective, especially for metabolic diseases like Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, which are related to obesity. Most patients can stop or significantly reduce their medication use shortly after surgery. This increases their quality of life and life expectancy.
• ✔ Reduction in Sleep Apnea and Joint Pain: Excess weight is a primary cause of sleep apnea and joint problems. With weight loss, sleep apnea symptoms significantly decrease, or may even disappear completely. As the load on the joints is reduced, pain in the knees, hips, and back also significantly lessens.
• ✔ Significant Improvement in Quality of Life: The ability to move more comfortably, participate in social activities, and have freedom in clothing choices increases patients’ overall quality of life and freedom.
• ✔ Improved Self-Confidence and Psychological Well-being: Weight loss boosts patients’ self-confidence and helps reduce psychological problems such as depression and anxiety. Having a new, healthier body positively impacts an individual’s mental health.
• ✔ Extended Lifespan: Studies have shown that individuals who undergo bariatric surgery have a significantly reduced risk of death from obesity-related diseases and an extended lifespan.

Post-Bariatric Surgery Process: The Key to Success

The success of the surgery is not limited to the surgical procedure itself. Post-operative dietary habits, exercise routine, and regular doctor check-ups are vital for the permanent success of the treatment. At Forever Clinica, located in Istanbul, Turkey, we continue to be by your side throughout this process:

• First Week: Liquid-Based Diet: In the first few days after surgery, only sips of water and clear liquids are consumed as the stomach is still in the healing process. Afterward, patients transition to protein-supplemented, sugar-free, and particle-free liquids. During this period, the goal is adaptation to the new stomach volume and protection of the sutures.
• Gradual Transition to Solid Foods: After the liquid phase, patients gradually transition to pureed, then soft, and finally solid foods. These transitions are made slowly and gradually, under the supervision of a doctor and dietitian, according to a specific program. Adaptation and tolerance to new foods are carefully monitored at each stage.
• Regular Vitamin and Mineral Supplements: Especially after absorption-limiting surgeries like gastric bypass and transit bipartition, regular lifelong supplementation is required to prevent vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Supplements are also recommended in the initial period after sleeve gastrectomy. These supplements include essential nutrients like iron, Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, and calcium.
• Regular Exercise and Doctor Check-ups: After the post-operative recovery period is complete, regular physical activity should be integrated into your life, starting with light walks as recommended by your doctor. Furthermore, it is crucial to attend regular doctor check-ups frequently in the first year after surgery (monthly or quarterly), and then annually in subsequent years. During these check-ups, blood tests are performed, weight loss is monitored, and potential problems are addressed early.
• Psychological Support (If Needed): Weight loss is not just a physical but also a psychological transformation. Some patients may need emotional or psychological support during this process. At Forever Clinica, we are also by your side in this process by providing psychological counseling or referring to support groups when necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Answers to All Your Questions

We’ve compiled answers to other important questions you might have about bariatric surgery:

1. Is bariatric surgery risky?

Like any surgical procedure, bariatric surgeries carry some potential risks. These include infection, bleeding, leaks (leakage from the staple line), anesthesia-related complications, and nutrient deficiencies. However, at Forever Clinica, we want to state clearly: With experienced surgeons, modern techniques (especially laparoscopic/keyhole methods), advanced medical equipment, and careful post-operative follow-up, these risks are minimized. Our team takes all precautions to reduce risks and ensure a safe surgical process. The potential benefits of surgery far outweigh its risks in carefully selected patients. All our surgical procedures are performed in our high-standard facilities in Istanbul, Turkey.

2. Will I regain the weight after surgery?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions. To be honest: Yes, if the patient does not adhere to the post-operative nutrition and lifestyle recommendations, weight gain can start again. Bariatric surgery is not a magic wand. It’s a tool, and the effectiveness of this tool depends on how you use it. The surgery reduces your stomach size and decreases your appetite, but returning to old bad eating habits, consuming excessive portions, or opting for unhealthy foods can lead to weight gain. Therefore, post-operative dietary discipline, regular exercise, and doctor check-ups are of great importance. At Forever Clinica, we provide all the necessary support and education to help you adapt to this new lifestyle.

3. How long does bariatric surgery take?

The duration of the surgery can vary depending on the method applied and the patient’s general condition. However, generally:

• Sleeve Gastrectomy: Average 1-2 hours
• Gastric Bypass and Transit Bipartition: Average 2-3 hours

These durations may vary slightly depending on the surgical team’s experience and the course of the surgery.

4. Will the surgery leave scars?

At Forever Clinica, we perform the vast majority of bariatric surgeries using the laparoscopic (keyhole) method. In this method, only a few small incisions (typically 0.5-1 cm in size) are made in the abdominal area. Since these incisions are much smaller than in open surgery, post-operative pain is reduced, the recovery process is faster, and scars are minimal. Over time, these small scars fade and become small enough not to bother you cosmetically.

5. Is bariatric surgery covered by health insurance or private insurance?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions by our patients. In Turkey, some private insurance companies and the Social Security Institution (SGK) may cover bariatric surgeries under certain conditions. SGK coverage usually involves strict criteria such as BMI, co-morbidities, and having tried non-surgical methods. Each insurance company also has its own differing policy terms.

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information on this matter, simply contact Forever Clinica. Our experienced team will assist you in evaluating your insurance situation and making the necessary applications.

Forever Clinica: Your Partner for a Healthy Life in Istanbul, Turkey!

Dear friends, fighting obesity might seem like a challenging journey, but you are not alone. At Forever Clinica, we are proud to be by your side in this important transformation. Our experienced team, consisting of expert surgeons, dietitians, psychologists, and nurses, is here to determine the most suitable treatment method for you and help you take a step towards a healthy life.

Remember, improving your quality of life, getting rid of chronic diseases, and living a longer, happier life is in your hands. By contacting us, you can take this important step and invest in your future.

📞 Book an appointment now and take that first life-changing step today! Say hello to a healthy and happy future with Forever Clinica in Istanbul, Turkey!