The operation is broadly the same in both countries. A surgeon removes a large part of the stomach and leaves a narrow, tube-shaped one. What differs is how you get to surgery, how long you wait, what a package includes and how aftercare is organised.
Is the gastric sleeve operation itself different in Türkiye?
No. In both countries a sleeve gastrectomy is usually done by keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery under general anaesthetic. Compare the surgeon, the hospital and the care around the operation, not just the country.
Some surgeons in Türkiye also offer single-incision (SILS) sleeve surgery. Whether any technique suits you is decided by the surgeon after assessment, and all surgery carries risks wherever it happens.
How does the NHS route to a gastric sleeve work?
On the NHS there is a set pathway. Your GP refers you to a specialist (tier 3) weight management service, where you work with a multidisciplinary team for a period of time. If surgery then looks appropriate, you are referred to a tier 4 bariatric surgical service.
It has real strengths: you get long-term support from dietitians, psychologists and specialist nurses, and follow-up happens close to home. NICE guidance sets out who may be eligible, mostly based on body mass index (BMI) and related conditions such as type 2 diabetes. Local criteria and availability vary between areas.
How long are waiting times in the UK?
NHS waits for bariatric surgery can be long, and they vary by area. Your GP or local weight management service can tell you what to expect where you live.
Private surgery in the UK is another route. The wait is usually shorter and aftercare stays in the UK, but you pay yourself or through insurance if your policy covers it. Many people compare a private UK quote with a package abroad.
How is eligibility assessed for surgery in Türkiye?
The operating surgeon assesses you, starting with your medical history, BMI, current medication and previous operations. With us, you send this information first so the surgeon can review it before you travel. Suitability is then confirmed in person in Antalya, after an examination and pre-operative tests.
Tests usually include bloods, an anaesthetic assessment and anything else the surgeon asks for. If surgery is not right for you, a reputable team will say no.
What does an all-inclusive package in Türkiye usually include?
A package usually bundles the surgery, hospital stay, pre-operative tests, hotel, airport transfers and a coordinator. Our gastric sleeve package includes 2 nights in hospital, 7 nights in a hotel, VIP airport transfers and 2-year aftercare.
When comparing packages, check what is written down:
- the surgeon's name, specialty and registration
- which tests are included before surgery
- the number of hospital and hotel nights
- medication and support garments after discharge
- translation and coordinator support
- how aftercare works once you are back in the UK
We do not publish set prices. Your personalised quote depends on your medical history, the procedure the surgeon recommends and how long you stay.
What should you think about before travelling?
Think about the flight, time off work, who will come with you and how you will manage at home afterwards. You need to stay in Antalya for the recommended period so the surgical team can check on you, and the surgeon will confirm when you are fit to fly.
On the practical side:
- bring a companion if you can
- check that your travel insurance covers planned medical treatment abroad
- tell your GP you are planning surgery, so they can support you afterwards
- leave recovery time at home before going back to work
Our guide to flying after surgery covers the trip home in more detail.
How does aftercare work when you return to the UK?
Follow-up usually continues remotely with the surgical team, and your GP stays your local point of contact. In the first year you will have a diet plan, vitamin supplements and regular check-ins. Before you travel, make sure you know exactly who to contact if something goes wrong.
The NHS may only cover urgent or emergency care after private surgery abroad, and routine dietetic support may not be available. Ask any provider how they deal with this. Our guide to aftercare after surgery abroad goes into more detail.
What questions should you ask before choosing?
Whichever country you pick, ask questions that show how care works before, during and after surgery. Write the answers down and compare them.
- Who is my surgeon, and what is their experience in bariatric surgery?
- How will my suitability be assessed, and by whom?
- What exactly is included, and what is not?
- What happens if I have a complication during my stay, or after I return home?
- Who do I contact during the first year, and how quickly do they respond?
- What diet and supplement plan will I follow?
How MYK Healthroutes can help
MYK Healthroutes is a licensed health tourism agency in Antalya, Türkiye, coordinating bariatric, plastic, dental, hair and dermatology treatment for international patients. We are not a hospital; independent, licensed doctors operate at partner hospitals, and we pass your details to the surgeon, organise tests, transfers, hospital and hotel, and stay in touch for 2 years afterwards. Read about gastric sleeve surgery in Antalya and how we work, or Message us on WhatsApp.
Frequently asked questions
Is a gastric sleeve in Türkiye the same operation as in the UK?
Broadly, yes. The differences are the surgeon, the hospital, the route to surgery and how aftercare is arranged.
Can I have a gastric sleeve abroad if I am on an NHS waiting list?
You can choose private treatment abroad, but tell your GP and your NHS team. The surgeon in Türkiye will still assess you independently.
Will the NHS provide follow-up after surgery abroad?
Urgent care is there if you need it, but routine bariatric follow-up may not be. Sort out aftercare with your provider before you go.
How long do I need to stay in Antalya after a gastric sleeve?
The MYK Healthroutes package includes 2 nights in hospital and 7 nights in a hotel. Your surgeon confirms when you are fit to fly home.