The Harms of Obesity

More Than Just Numbers: The Hidden and Overt Impacts of Obesity on Your Health

Dear Health Enthusiasts, Welcome to the Forever Clinica Family!

Today, when we look in the mirror, what we see in terms of physical appearance is important, but perhaps even more so is what is happening within us, in our bodies… One of the most critical steps underlying a healthy and happy life is taking good care of our bodies. However, unfortunately, the demands of modern life, our fast pace, stress, and eating habits can, inadvertently, distance us from our health. One of the most obvious signs of this distance is the increasing weight problems and, sadly, obesity.

At Forever Clinica, we don’t just address your aesthetic concerns; your healthy and quality life is our greatest desire. One of the most serious obstacles we face on this journey is obesity, and we want to discuss it in detail, provide you with accurate information about it, and most importantly, let you know that we are by your side on your journey to overcome this challenge. Located in Istanbul, Turkey, Forever Clinica offers the most current and effective methods in the fight against obesity, including comprehensive surgical treatment options for suitable candidates.

In this comprehensive article, we will delve beyond superficial definitions to understand what obesity is, examine the devastating effects of excess weight on our bodies in a scientific and understandable language, discuss in depth the diseases caused or triggered by obesity, and most importantly, talk about the steps you can take in this challenging battle and how Forever Clinica, with its expert team and modern treatment methods, can support you right here in Istanbul, Turkey.

Remember, knowledge is power. Fully understanding the impact of obesity on your health will be your greatest motivation to act. Let’s shed light on this important topic together.

What is Obesity? Is It Just About the Numbers on the Scale?

Let’s first clarify what the word “obesity” means. For many of us, it might be reduced to a simple definition like “being too heavy.” However, the medical and scientific dimension is much deeper. Obesity is a condition where there is an excessive accumulation of fat in the body to an extent that impairs health. Yes, the numbers on the scale are important, but they are not sufficient on their own. Obesity is a chronic and progressive disease resulting from a long-term imbalance in the body’s energy balance (taking in more calories than are expended).

The most frequently used measure in the definition of obesity is the Body Mass Index (BMI). BMI is calculated by dividing a person’s weight (in kilograms) by the square of their height (in meters). So, BMI=[Height(m)]2Weight(kg)​.

According to BMI values, obesity is classified as follows:

• BMI 18.5 – 24.9: Normal weight
• BMI 25 – 29.9: Overweight (Pre-obese)
• BMI 30 – 34.9: Obesity Class I
• BMI 35 – 39.9: Obesity Class II (Severe Obesity)
• BMI 40 and above: Obesity Class III (Morbid Obesity or Extreme Obesity)

However, it is important to note here: BMI can be misleading in athletes with high muscle mass (BMI may be high due to muscle density) or in elderly individuals who have lost muscle mass (BMI may be low despite high body fat). Therefore, in the diagnosis of obesity, not only BMI but also waist circumference measurement is vital. Abdominal fat accumulation (greater than 102 cm in men, greater than 88 cm in women), referred to as “visceral fat,” is considered much riskier for metabolic problems such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. Measuring body fat percentage (generally considered obese above 25% for men, above 30% for women) and body composition are also additional valuable methods used in the definition of obesity.

So, why does this excessive fat accumulation occur? Contrary to popular belief, obesity is not a one-dimensional problem like “eating too much and moving too little.” Of course, an imbalance in energy balance (consuming more calories than are burned) is the primary cause, but there are many complex factors contributing to this imbalance, and these factors are often interactive:

• Genetic Predisposition: Individuals with a family history of obesity have a higher risk of developing obesity. Genes can affect our metabolic rate, tendency to store fat, the secretion of hormones regulating appetite, and even our feeling of fullness. However, genetic predisposition is not destiny; this risk can be largely managed through lifestyle choices and professional support.
• Environmental Factors: The “obesogenic environment,” which includes easy access to unhealthy, high-calorie, low-nutrient foods (prevalence of fast-food restaurants, processed foods in supermarkets), increasingly large portion sizes, urbanization structures that restrict physical activity (dependence on cars, lack of safe walking areas), and technology use (devices encouraging sedentary life) all trigger and exacerbate obesity.
• Sedentary Lifestyle: Modern people move significantly less than previous generations. Long hours spent in front of screens (computers, televisions, phones), sedentary jobs, commuting by car or public transport have dramatically reduced our energy expenditure. This creates a fertile ground for consumed calories to easily turn into fat.
• Unbalanced and Excessive Diet: A diet high in calories from sugary drinks, sweets, pastries, fried foods, processed meats, and other nutrient-poor but calorie-rich foods quickly leads to weight gain. Particularly refined carbohydrates and sugars cause rapid increases in blood sugar, leading to increased insulin secretion and promoting fat storage. A diet poor in fiber also reduces the feeling of fullness.
• Psychological Factors: Emotional states such as stress, depression, anxiety, or boredom can lead to disordered eating behaviors in some people, such as “emotional eating” (eating due to stress or sadness) or “Binge Eating Disorder.” These conditions cause uncontrolled and excessive calorie intake, contributing to obesity. Low self-esteem and body image issues can also fuel a vicious cycle.
• Hormonal Imbalances: Certain endocrine disorders, such as an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism), Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS – especially in women), or excessive cortisol secretion from the adrenal glands (Cushing’s syndrome), can cause weight gain by affecting metabolic rate or disrupting hormonal balance. Imbalances in hormones regulating appetite and metabolism, such as leptin and ghrelin, also play a role in obesity.
• Certain Medications: Various medications, such as antidepressants, some diabetes medications (insulin and sulfonylureas), corticosteroids (cortisone), antipsychotics, and some blood pressure medications, can cause weight gain as a side effect by increasing appetite, slowing metabolism, or causing fluid retention.
• Sleep Disturbances: Insufficient sleep (generally less than 7 hours) or poor quality sleep disrupts the balance of hormones that regulate appetite (ghrelin – increases appetite, leptin – provides a feeling of fullness). Insufficient sleep increases ghrelin levels and decreases leptin levels, leading to increased appetite, especially a craving for high-carbohydrate and fatty foods. Furthermore, fatigue reduces the desire for physical activity.
• Age Factor: As we age, the metabolic rate naturally slows down to some extent, and muscle mass tends to decrease. If lifestyle changes are not made, the same eating habits and activity level can lead to weight gain.

As you can see, obesity is a complex condition often resulting from a combination of multiple factors. Therefore, its treatment requires a personalized, multidisciplinary, and multifaceted approach.

The Harms of Obesity to the Body: A Domino Effect

Now let’s get to the crucial point: the effects of excess weight and obesity on our health… Obesity is not just a “weight problem”; it is a serious health issue that can affect every system in our body, open the door to many chronic diseases, worsen existing conditions, and shorten lifespan. You can think of it like a domino effect; when one stone falls, it knocks down the others. Let’s examine this devastating chain reaction initiated by obesity together:

1. Cardiovascular Health: The Burden on Your Heart Increases

Perhaps one of the most well-known and feared effects of obesity is on the cardiovascular system. Excessive fat tissue, especially visceral fat around the abdomen, triggers chronic inflammation in the body and causes the secretion of various substances (adipokines) that increase blood pressure, increase insulin resistance, and disrupt lipid metabolism.

• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Excess weight increases blood volume and leads to hardening and narrowing of blood vessel walls. Furthermore, it causes hormonal and mechanical changes that increase blood pressure by increasing sodium retention by the kidneys and activating the nervous system. Hypertension is a major cause of serious problems such as heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, and vision loss.
• High Cholesterol and Triglycerides (Dyslipidemia): Obesity increases the production of cholesterol and triglycerides in the liver. Generally, “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and triglyceride levels rise, while the level of “good” cholesterol (HDL), which helps clear arteries, decreases. This imbalance significantly increases the risk of plaque (atheroma) buildup in artery walls.
• Atherosclerosis (Hardening of the Arteries): High blood pressure, high blood sugar, and unhealthy blood lipids damage the inner lining of the blood vessels (endothelium). This damage, along with the inflammatory process, leads to the accumulation of fat, cholesterol, and calcium in the artery walls (plaque formation). Arteries gradually narrow and harden.
• Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction) and Stroke: When plaques in narrowed arteries rupture, the body forms a clot in that area to repair the damage. If this clot completely blocks the artery, blood flow to the affected tissue stops. A clot in the coronary arteries causes a heart attack, and a clot in the brain arteries causes a stroke. Obesity significantly increases these vital risks by both accelerating plaque formation and increasing the tendency for blood clotting.
• Heart Failure: Pumping excess weight constantly burdens the heart. Over time, the heart muscle thickens, enlarges, and weakens. This leads to the heart being unable to pump enough oxygenated blood to the body (heart failure). Obesity also increases the risk of heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias), particularly atrial fibrillation.

2. Type 2 Diabetes: The Metabolic Disorder of Sugar

It is now definitively known that obesity is the strongest risk factor for Type 2 diabetes. Excessive fat tissue in the body, especially visceral fat around the abdomen, reduces the sensitivity of body cells, including muscle, liver, and fat cells, to insulin. This condition is called insulin resistance. Insulin is a vital hormone that transports blood sugar into cells for use as energy. When cells become resistant to insulin, blood sugar begins to rise in the blood. Initially, the pancreas tries to compensate by producing more insulin (hyperinsulinemia). However, over time, the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas become fatigued and damaged, becoming unable to produce enough insulin. The result: persistently high blood sugar levels and the onset of Type 2 diabetes.

Diabetes is a chronic and progressive disease that, on its own, leads to many serious complications such as kidney failure (diabetic nephropathy), vision loss (diabetic retinopathy), nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy), foot ulcers and infections. The combination of obesity and diabetes (which is very common) exponentially increases the risk and severity of these complications. Weight loss can prevent the development of Type 2 diabetes by reducing insulin resistance, or help bring existing diabetes under control, and in some cases, even contribute to the disease going into remission. Bariatric surgery is highly effective in controlling or achieving remission of diabetes, especially in morbidly obese diabetic patients.

3. Respiratory Problems: Breathing Can Become Difficult

Excess weight doesn’t just cause shortness of breath during physical activity; it can also impair the function of the respiratory system.

• Sleep Apnea Syndrome: This is the most common respiratory problem observed in obese individuals and carries a significant risk to life. Excessive fat tissue around the neck and upper airway, along with the tongue shifting backward, narrows or completely blocks the airway during sleep. This causes repeated pauses in breathing (apnea) or shallow breathing (hypopnea) during sleep, often accompanied by snoring. The brain detects the drop in oxygen levels and briefly awakens the person (though the person usually doesn’t remember it), disrupting the sleep cycle. Sleep apnea leads to symptoms such as excessive daytime sleepiness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, headaches, and most importantly, significantly increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure, heart rhythm disorders, and Type 2 diabetes. Weight loss can significantly improve sleep apnea symptoms or completely resolve the condition. Bariatric surgery is extremely successful in the treatment of sleep apnea.
• Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome (OHS): A condition seen in severely obese individuals characterized by high carbon dioxide levels in the blood. Excessive abdominal fat pressing on the diaphragm and weakening of respiratory muscles prevent the lungs from ventilating properly. This can lead to chronic fatigue, shortness of breath, and severe respiratory failure.
• Asthma: Obesity can increase the risk of developing asthma and worsen existing asthma symptoms. Both the restrictive effect of fat tissue around the lungs and the chronic inflammation caused by obesity can increase the frequency and severity of asthma attacks.
• Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea): Fat tissue around the lungs and excessive abdominal fat pressing on the diaphragm prevent the lungs from fully expanding and respiratory muscles from working effectively, causing shortness of breath, especially during physical activity.

4. Joint and Skeletal System Problems: Your Load Gets Heavier

Our joints are designed to bear our weight, allow us to move, and absorb shocks. However, when this weight significantly exceeds normal limits, our joints, especially weight-bearing joints like knees, hips, ankles, and the lower back, are placed under excessive stress and begin to wear down.

• Osteoarthritis: The wearing down and damage of the protective cartilage tissue in the joints over time. Obesity accelerates cartilage damage by increasing mechanical stress on the joints and through inflammatory molecules (pro-inflammatory cytokines) secreted by fat tissue, which contribute to joint inflammation and cartilage damage. The result is pain, stiffness, swelling, and restricted movement in the joints. Weight loss can relieve pain and slow the progression of the disease by reducing the load on the joints.
• Lower Back and Neck Pain and Herniated Discs: Excessive weight on the spine increases the pressure on the discs (cushions that act as shock absorbers) between the vertebrae. This can lead to the discs wearing down, bulging outwards, or completely displacing (herniating), causing compression on nerve roots. The result can be severe lower back and leg pain (sciatica) or neck and arm pain. Excessive abdominal fat accumulation can also contribute to lower back pain by altering the natural curvature of the spine.
• Gout: A disease characterized by abnormally high levels of uric acid in the body, resulting in the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, causing sudden, severe inflammation and painful attacks. Obesity increases the risk of gout by both increasing uric acid production and decreasing its excretion by the kidneys.

5. Digestive System and Metabolic Problems: Your Internal Organs Are Also Affected

Obesity also has significant negative effects on the digestive system organs and overall metabolism.

• Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Excessive accumulation of fat in liver cells not caused by alcohol. It is very closely related to obesity (especially abdominal fat) and is the most common cause of liver disease today. NAFLD can start as simple fatty liver (steatosis) but can progress to liver inflammation (Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis – NASH), scar tissue formation (fibrosis), cirrhosis (liver failure), and even liver cancer. NASH has become one of the most common causes of liver transplantation today. Weight loss is the most effective method in reversing fatty liver disease. Bariatric surgery can significantly improve fatty liver disease.
• Gallbladder Diseases: Obese individuals have a higher risk of developing gallstones. Rapid weight loss diets can also trigger gallstone formation, which is why the weight loss process should be professionally managed.
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): The backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus due to the sphincter between the stomach and esophagus not working properly. Excessive abdominal fat pressing on the stomach and diaphragm can facilitate the backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus, triggering or worsening reflux symptoms (heartburn, bitter taste in the mouth). Weight loss usually significantly alleviates reflux symptoms.
• Metabolic Syndrome: A condition where at least three risk factors are present together: abdominal obesity (waist circumference), high blood sugar (or insulin resistance), high blood pressure, high triglycerides, and low HDL cholesterol. Metabolic syndrome exponentially increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, and fatty liver disease much more than the sum of individual risk factors. One of the primary goals of obesity treatment is to correct the risk factors contributing to metabolic syndrome.

6. Hormonal and Reproductive Health: Balances are Disrupted

Fat tissue is not just an energy store; it is also an endocrine (hormone-secreting) active organ that produces hormones and signaling molecules such as leptin, adiponectin, estrogen, and various cytokines. Excessive fat tissue can disrupt the body’s delicate hormonal balance.

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A common hormonal disorder seen in women characterized by irregular periods, ovulation problems, excessive hair growth (hirsutism), acne, hair loss, cyst formation in the ovaries, and insulin resistance. Obesity increases the development and severity of PCOS symptoms and deepens insulin resistance. Weight loss is one of the most effective methods in improving PCOS symptoms and increasing fertility.
• Infertility: In both men and women, obesity can negatively affect fertility through hormonal imbalances, ovulation problems (in women), impaired sperm quality (in men), and sexual dysfunction. Obesity also increases the risk of pregnancy complications (gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, need for Cesarean section).
• Erectile Dysfunction: In men, obesity can lead to erectile dysfunction by impairing cardiovascular health (narrowing of blood vessels), lowering testosterone levels, and affecting hormonal balance.
• Other Hormonal Effects: Obesity can lower growth hormone levels and affect cortisol metabolism.

7. Kidney Health:

High blood pressure and diabetes, which we mentioned earlier, are the biggest enemies of the kidneys. Obesity indirectly increases the risk of chronic kidney disease and kidney failure by predisposing individuals to these two diseases. High blood sugar and high blood pressure damage the small blood vessels and filtering units (glomeruli) in the kidneys over time. Furthermore, some research indicates that obesity can directly impair kidney function (obesity-related glomerulopathy) through substances secreted by fat tissue or due to increased workload on the kidneys.

8. Skin Problems:

Excess weight leads to increased skin folds (in areas like the neck, armpits, groin, under the breasts), creating a favorable environment for moisture accumulation and fungal, bacterial, and yeast infections. Irritation due to friction is also common. Furthermore, skin problems related to insulin resistance, such as acanthosis nigricans (darkening, thickening, and velvety appearance of the skin, especially in areas like the neck, armpits, and groin), are frequently seen in obese individuals. The risk of lymphedema (swelling caused by impaired lymphatic fluid drainage, usually seen in the arms or legs) also increases.

9. Increased Cancer Risk: The Role of Chronic Inflammation in the Body

Research has clearly shown that obesity increases the risk of developing various types of cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, obesity is the second most common preventable cause of cancer after smoking. These cancer types include breast (postmenopausal), colon, rectum, uterus (endometrium), ovary, kidney, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, gastric cardia (entrance of the stomach), thyroid, multiple myeloma, and meningioma, among others. Although the mechanisms by which obesity increases cancer risk are not fully understood, factors such as chronic low-grade inflammation, hormonal changes (especially high levels of estrogen, insulin, and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)), adipokines secreted by fat tissue, and effects on the immune system are thought to play a role. Weight loss can be effective in reducing obesity-related cancer risk.

10. Psychological and Social Effects: The Unseen Wounds

As much as the physical effects, and sometimes even more devastating, are the psychological and social consequences of obesity.

• Low Self-Esteem and Body Image Issues: Societal pressure for an “ideal” body image and negative comments about weight can lead obese individuals to feel inadequate, worthless, or unattractive and to be ashamed of their bodies. This leads to significant low self-esteem.
• Depression and Anxiety: There is a strong bidirectional relationship between obesity and depression/anxiety. Obesity can trigger depression and anxiety due to reduced quality of life, health problems, pain, limited mobility, social exclusion, and discrimination. Similarly, people with depression or anxiety may develop disordered eating behaviors (overeating, poor food choices) to cope with their emotions, contributing to weight gain.
• Social Isolation and Stigma: Unfortunately, obese individuals may face discrimination, prejudice, and stigma in the workplace, school, healthcare settings, and social circles. This can lead to serious psychological and social problems such as shame, feelings of exclusion, avoidance of social activities, and consequently, social isolation.
• Eating Disorders: Some eating disorders, such as Binge Eating Disorder, cause or are associated with obesity. These disorders are characterized by recurrent and uncontrollable episodes of eating a large amount of food, often accompanied by feelings of shame, guilt, and regret. Such conditions require professional psychiatric and psychological support.

As you can see, the effects of obesity on the body are quite extensive, and often multiple problems coexist. These problems not only reduce the quality of life but also increase treatment costs and, most importantly, can shorten lifespan.

Battling Obesity: A Lifestyle Journey and Professional Support

The widespread prevalence and harmfulness of obesity can seem discouraging. However, the good news is that it is possible to fight obesity, prevent it, and even reverse or improve obesity-related health problems! This is not a quest for a “quick fix” or “miracle diet,” but a lifestyle journey pursued with determination, accurate information, patience, and most importantly, professional support.

Key Steps to Take on This Journey:

1. Set Realistic and Sustainable Goals: Don’t be swayed by promises of rapid weight loss. Healthy weight loss is slow and steady. Losing even 5-10% of your total body weight (e.g., 5-10 kg for a 100 kg individual) can provide significant health benefits, such as improvements in blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, and sleep apnea. Your goals should be achievable, measurable, relevant, time-bound, and most importantly, sustainable.
2. Permanently Change Eating Habits: This is perhaps the most critical and challenging step, but it is the key to success.
   • Focus on Quality Foods: Fill half your plate with fresh vegetables and fruits. Choose whole grains (whole wheat, oats, brown rice). Consume lean protein sources (chicken breast, fish, legumes) and healthy fats (olive oil, avocado, raw nuts).
   • Avoid Processed Foods, Sugar, and Unhealthy Fats: Minimize the consumption of high-calorie but low-nutrient foods such as sugary drinks (including fruit juices), fast food, fried foods, packaged snacks, pastries, and white bread.
   • Portion Control: How much you eat is as important as what you eat. Be mindful of your portion sizes. Using smaller plates, visualizing or measuring your portions can be helpful.
   • Mindful Eating: Focus on your meal, chew slowly, and savor your food. Listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. Avoid distractions like television or phones while eating.
   • Water Consumption: Drinking at least 2-3 liters (about 8-12 glasses) of water per day helps metabolism function properly, provides a feeling of fullness, which can reduce unnecessary snacking, and supports the body in cleansing toxins. Drinking water before meals can help you eat less.
3. Increase Physical Activity and Make It a Regular Part of Your Life: Don’t let “exercising” intimidate you. Moving your body is beneficial in every way for burning calories and building muscle mass.
   • Regular Exercise: The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (brisk walking, cycling, swimming) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise (running, fast swimming) per week, plus muscle-strengthening exercises (weight training, bodyweight exercises like squats, push-ups) at least 2 days per week.
   • Increase Daily Activity: Incorporate more movement into your daily routine. Use stairs instead of the elevator, walk short distances, take short breaks to move around at work or home. Aim to increase your step count (e.g., 10,000 steps per day).
   • Find an Activity You Enjoy: Don’t see exercise as a chore. Dancing, hiking, gardening, team sports… If you find an activity you enjoy, it will be easier to stick with it.
   • Start Small: If you have been sedentary for a long time, start slowly (e.g., 10-15 minutes of walking per day) and gradually increase the duration and intensity.
4. Get Quality and Sufficient Sleep: As mentioned earlier, sleep affects hormones that regulate appetite. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted, quality sleep each night, appropriate for your age. Try to keep your sleep schedule regular (“sleep hygiene”).
5. Develop Stress Management Techniques: Chronic stress can raise cortisol hormone levels, promoting fat storage, especially in the abdominal area, and increasing the tendency for emotional eating. Developing stress coping methods such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing exercises, hobbies, seeking social support, or professional therapy is important for both weight control and overall health.
6. Seek Professional Support: Since obesity is a complex disease, being supported by a team of experts in this field significantly increases your chances of success. Fighting alone can be difficult, but with the right guidance, the journey becomes much easier and more effective.

Forever Clinica Is With You: Your Comprehensive Obesity Treatment Center in Istanbul, Turkey

At Forever Clinica, we understand that the fight against obesity is more than just a diet or exercise plan. It is a comprehensive process that requires fundamentally changing a person’s physical and mental health, lifestyle, and habits. Our approach is multidisciplinary; meaning, physicians and health professionals from different specialties (general surgeons, internal medicine specialists, dietitians, psychologists/psychiatrists, physical therapists) specialized in obesity treatment work together to create and implement the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Your Obesity Treatment Journey at Forever Clinica in Istanbul, Turkey:

1. Detailed Health Evaluation and Consultation: The process begins with a comprehensive initial evaluation by our experienced general surgeons and obesity team. Your medical history is taken, a physical examination is performed, and detailed blood tests and imaging may be requested to understand the causes of your obesity (genetic, hormonal, metabolic, etc.). Any accompanying conditions (diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, etc.) are meticulously evaluated. This evaluation plays a critical role in determining the most appropriate treatment method for you. Our dietitian, psychologist, and internal medicine specialist are also included in the evaluation process to create a profile specifically tailored to your situation. All these initial evaluations and consultations take place right here at our state-of-the-art facility in Istanbul, Turkey.

2. Creation of a Personalized Treatment Plan: Based on the detailed evaluations, the team convenes to create the most suitable treatment plan specifically for your unique situation. This plan may include one or more options from lifestyle changes (diet and exercise), medical treatment (medication use), or surgical treatment (bariatric surgery). The treatment plan is tailored to your health goals, lifestyle, and preferences.

3. Surgical Treatment Options (Bariatric Surgery): Forever Clinica Expertise in Istanbul If bariatric surgery is determined to be a suitable and necessary option for you, Forever Clinica offers its expertise and modern infrastructure in this field. At Forever Clinica in Istanbul, Turkey, obesity surgeries are successfully performed using minimally invasive methods (laparoscopic – closed surgery) by our experienced general surgeons specializing in obesity surgery.

   The most commonly performed and proven effective bariatric surgery methods we offer include:

   • Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: This procedure involves surgically removing 75-80% of the stomach. The stomach volume is reduced, and appetite is decreased because the portion of the stomach that secretes a large amount of the appetite hormone ghrelin is removed. This surgery promotes weight loss by both restricting food intake and causing hormonal changes. It is one of the most frequently performed obesity surgery methods at Forever Clinica.
   • Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass): A small stomach pouch is created from the upper part of the stomach, and a section of the small intestine is connected to this pouch. This surgery promotes weight loss by both reducing stomach volume (restrictive effect) and reducing the absorption of nutrients by bypassing a portion of the small intestine (malabsorptive effect). Furthermore, it has a very strong curative effect on diabetes and other metabolic diseases through hormonal changes.

   The multidisciplinary team, based on your health status, accompanying conditions, eating habits, and the surgeon’s assessment, will determine which surgical method is most suitable for you. All these advanced surgical procedures are performed with the highest standards of care at Forever Clinica in Istanbul.

4. Pre-operative Preparation and Support in Istanbul: If surgery is decided upon, detailed tests are conducted before the operation to minimize potential risks. Physicians from various specialties, such as anesthesiologists, cardiologists, and pulmonologists, perform the necessary assessments. Our dietitian will provide detailed information and prepare you for your pre- and post-operative nutrition plan. Psychological support is important for the post-operative adaptation process and preparation for lifestyle changes. This entire process is closely monitored by the Forever Clinica team in Istanbul.

5. Post-operative Care and Follow-up: During your hospital stay after the surgery, you will be closely monitored by our experienced team. After discharge, Forever Clinica’s long-term follow-up program begins. You will have regular appointments with your dietitian to help you adapt to your new eating habits and ensure you take your vitamin and mineral supplements regularly. Regular check-ups with your internal medicine specialist and surgeon monitor your weight loss, evaluate the improvement in your obesity-related conditions (diabetes, hypertension, etc.), and adjust your medication regimens as needed. Psychological support continues throughout this long-term process to help you maintain your motivation and adapt to your new lifestyle. All post-operative care and follow-ups are provided at Forever Clinica in Istanbul, Turkey.

6. Long-Term Lifestyle Change and Weight Maintenance: Bariatric surgery is a powerful tool in the weight loss process, but it is not a stand-alone, permanent solution. For successful results and lasting weight maintenance after surgery, it is vital to maintain healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and ongoing medical follow-ups throughout life. At Forever Clinica, we don’t leave you alone in the post-operative period; we continue to provide continuous support to help you maintain your healthy lifestyle habits and keep the weight off.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

You may have many questions about obesity and the weight loss process. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions and their answers:

1. Is obesity only caused by overeating? Or are there other reasons? Absolutely not. As we explained in detail earlier, overeating and inactivity contribute to the energy imbalance that forms the basis of obesity, but behind this imbalance lie many complex reasons such as genetic predisposition, hormonal disorders (thyroid, PCOS, etc.), psychological factors (stress, depression, eating disorders), certain medications used, sleep disturbances, and environmental factors. Obesity is a multifactorial disease and therefore its treatment must also be multifaceted.

2. Is Body Mass Index (BMI) sufficient for diagnosing obesity alone? BMI is a widely used practical tool for classifying obesity, but it is not sufficient on its own. It can be misleading in individuals with high muscle mass (athletes) or in elderly individuals experiencing muscle loss. Therefore, in addition to BMI, other factors such as waist circumference measurement, body fat percentage, and the person’s overall health status and accompanying diseases should also be evaluated. Abdominal obesity (central obesity) is particularly indicative of metabolic risks.

3. Who is a suitable candidate for obesity surgery (bariatric surgery)? Who undergoes obesity surgery at Forever Clinica? Obesity surgery is a treatment option for individuals with severe obesity who have not achieved sufficient weight loss with lifestyle changes and other medical treatments. Generally, individuals with a BMI of 40 or higher, or those with a BMI of 35-40 who have serious accompanying conditions related to obesity such as Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, or severe joint problems, may be suitable candidates for surgery. At Forever Clinica, the suitability evaluation for obesity surgery is meticulously performed by our experienced general surgeons and the multidisciplinary obesity team. Every candidate undergoes a detailed evaluation of the potential benefits and risks of surgery. Surgery is an effective tool for appropriate candidates but requires lifelong changes in diet and lifestyle. Among the principal bariatric surgery methods performed at Forever Clinica in Istanbul are Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy and Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass.

4. What is the most effective type of exercise for weight loss? There is no single “most effective” type of exercise. The most effective approach is a regular program that combines different types of exercise and can be sustained with enjoyment. Aerobic exercises (walking, running, swimming) increase calorie expenditure. Resistance exercises (weight training) increase muscle mass, which in turn helps you burn more calories even at rest and speeds up metabolism. The ideal is to create a balanced program that includes both aerobic and resistance exercises. Most importantly, doing any exercise is better than none, and consistency is key.

5. Is medication always necessary in obesity treatment? Medication use in obesity treatment may be considered under the supervision of a doctor and for patients who meet specific criteria (generally BMI > 30 or BMI > 27 with accompanying diseases). Medications can help with weight loss by suppressing appetite or reducing fat absorption. However, medications alone are not sufficient; they must always be used in conjunction with healthy eating and exercise programs. Medication treatment can be an option for patients whose lifestyle changes have not been effective or who are not suitable for surgery.

6. Why is it so difficult to maintain weight after losing it? Maintaining weight after losing it is as, if not more, challenging than the weight loss process itself. The reasons for this include a slowdown in metabolism, changes in hormones that regulate appetite, and most importantly, the inability to make newly acquired healthy lifestyle habits permanent. For successful weight maintenance, it is vital to continue the healthy eating and regular exercise principles learned during the weight loss process for life, receive regular medical and psychological follow-ups, and develop strategies to cope with potential challenges. Weight maintenance is not about returning to the old life when the “diet” is over, but about adopting a new lifestyle.

7. What is the follow-up process after obesity surgery at Forever Clinica? The follow-up process after obesity surgery at Forever Clinica is as important as the surgery itself and plays a vital role in success. During your hospital stay after the surgery, you will be closely monitored by our surgical team and nurses. After discharge, Forever Clinica’s long-term follow-up program begins. You will have regular appointments with our dietitian to help you adapt to your new post-operative eating plan (stages of liquid, puree, soft, solid transitions) and ensure you take your vitamin and mineral supplements regularly. Regular check-ups (at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year post-op, and annually thereafter) with your surgeon, internal medicine specialist, and dietitian monitor your weight loss, evaluate the improvement in your obesity-related conditions (diabetes, hypertension, etc.), and adjust your medication regimens as needed. Psychological support also continues throughout this long-term process to help you maintain motivation and adapt to your new lifestyle. All post-operative care and follow-ups are provided at Forever Clinica in Istanbul, Turkey.

Don’t Postpone Your Health, Forever Clinica Is With You!

Obesity is a serious disease that restricts your life, threatens your health, and reduces your quality of life. However, with the right steps, determination, and most importantly, the support of a team specialized in this field, it is possible to fight obesity and overcome it.

At Forever Clinica, we are here to accompany you on this challenging but rewarding journey. With our multidisciplinary approach, from lifestyle changes to advanced obesity surgery methods, we work to offer you the most effective treatment plan tailored to your needs. Our team of experienced surgeons, internal medicine specialists, dietitians, and psychologists will guide you, support you, and help you maintain your motivation every step of the way. All our consultations, treatments, and surgical procedures are performed with the highest standards of care right here in Istanbul, Turkey.

Your health is your most valuable asset, and there is no reason to postpone taking care of it. Take the first step today to free yourself from the burden of excess weight, improve or reduce the risks of obesity-related health problems, and step into a much more energetic, healthy, and happy life.