Gastric sleeve surgery (Sleeve gastrectomy) in Turkey: Reviews from Real Patients

Patients consistently praise the seamless logistics, with airport pickups in 'luxury cars' and comprehensive support throughout their stay. Everything is coordinated down to daily schedules, as one noted: 'everything was already organised' within just two weeks. Coordinators handle all arrangements so patients 'did not have to worry about anything.' Some experienced minor transfer delays, though one patient mentioned having to arrange their own airport transport. The process includes hotel accommodations, meal planning, and constant coordinator check-ins. Patients appreciate having detailed day-by-day itineraries and describe the overall experience as 'smooth' with attentive personal support even for solo travelers.

Patients consistently report that gastric sleeve surgery pain is manageable and short-lived. As one patient noted, they were 'free of pain' just one week post-surgery. The surgery day itself can be 'a bit tough,' but recovery progresses quickly with adequate painkillers and IV fluids. Most describe being able to walk around four hours after surgery. Pain typically lasts only 'a few hours' before improving steadily. Patients emphasize that while soreness is expected, the medical team provides 'plenty of painkillers' to keep discomfort well-controlled throughout the hospital stay.

Patients report impressive weight loss results, with one losing 7.5 kg in just 10 days and another dropping from 121 to 103 kilos within 6 weeks. Recovery appears faster than expected—patients describe walking around just four hours after surgery and being 'free of pain' within a week. One patient called their experience '10/10' and noted the surgery went 'quickly and without complications.' Some mentioned unexpected additional costs for medications and supplements. The overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with patients saying they have 'no regrets' and would 'fully recommend' the procedure to others.

Patients describe surprisingly quick recovery timelines, with many walking within hours of surgery. One patient was 'walking a lot' by day four and felt good at the 10-day mark. Another could walk around just 'four hours after the OP' and was 'free of pain' within a week. The surgery day itself is described as 'a bit tough,' but the following hospital days are 'very bearable' with adequate pain management. Some noted minor gaps in aftercare information, though the medical recovery itself progressed smoothly. Most patients spend three days in hospital before being cleared to leave.

Patients consistently describe Turkish bariatric surgeons as highly experienced professionals who provide exceptional care. Dr. Kaplan Baha Temizgonul is praised as 'undoubtedly such a genuine man' who 'guides and supports you throughout the process,' while another surgeon is called 'a real kind man' with impressive expertise. Doctors take time for thorough consultations, answering questions and ensuring patients feel comfortable. Some noted language barriers with paperwork explanations, though medical communication remained clear with translator support. The surgical expertise shines through with patients reporting smooth procedures and excellent outcomes, often rating their overall experience '10 out of 10.'

Patients consistently describe Turkish clinic facilities as modern and comfortable, with many highlighting the 'pristinely clean' environments and 'luxurious' private rooms. Rooms typically feature private bathrooms, storage space, and TVs, with one patient noting their ward was 'large and spacious.' Several mention being 'very pleasantly surprised' by facilities that rival top private hospitals in their home countries. Some noted occasional language barriers with medical staff, though this didn't impact the overall comfort experience. The attention to cleanliness and patient comfort clearly stands out, with facilities described as 'topnotch' and creating environments where patients feel safe and well-cared for.

Based on patient experiences, language barriers are manageable but vary by clinic. Some patients found communication 'very difficult' with limited English-speaking staff, though most successfully navigated this with Google Translate and available interpreters. Several clinics provide dedicated translators who patients describe as 'brilliant' and helpful with both medical and organizational needs. One patient noted the challenge of signing Turkish admission papers without translation, though staff accommodated by allowing photos. Many patients emphasize that despite initial language concerns, the medical teams were 'very professional' and 'attentive,' with care quality remaining excellent throughout their treatment.

Patients consistently praise the organized approach to paperwork and scheduling. One noted how 'everything was already organised and programmed' in just two weeks, with day-by-day planning that made the process feel straightforward. Another highlighted how 'everything flowed and was done so smoothly' from pre-op testing through surgery. Some mentioned admission papers being in Turkish without translation, though this didn't impact their overall positive experience. Coordinators receive frequent praise for helping patients navigate documentation efficiently. As one patient described, the weekly program was 'implemented exactly as written,' reflecting the clinics' systematic approach to patient care.

Patients consistently describe Turkish clinic staff as exceptionally caring and attentive throughout their gastric sleeve journey. One called their nurse 'absolutely phenomenal' with 'such a beautiful soul,' while another noted staff sat with them all day post-surgery until fully recovered. Coordinators receive particular praise for being available around the clock, checking on patients multiple times daily, and making the process 'stress free.' Some experienced occasional language barriers, though translators and staff's genuine care bridged communication gaps effectively. The overwhelming sentiment is of staff who go 'above and beyond' - treating not just patients but accompanying family members with remarkable warmth and professionalism.