Thinking about weight-loss surgery abroad? Whether you’re considering a gastric sleeve, gastric balloon, or gastric bypass, it’s normal to have lots of questions about what to expect.
This guide will take you through your gastric surgery journey step-by-step with Cosmetic Surgery Cyprus & Turkey — from your very first consultation through to surgery, recovery, and life after treatment — so you can feel fully prepared and confident.
Step 1: Your Free Consultation
The first step is a virtual consultation with one of our experienced bariatric surgeons in Cyprus or Turkey.
During this consultation, we will:
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Review your BMI, medical history, and previous weight-loss attempts.
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Discuss your goals and help you decide between sleeve, balloon, or bypass.
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Explain risks, benefits, expected results, and recovery times.
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Give you a clear, itemised cost estimate (no hidden fees).
💡 Tip: Have your recent weight, height, and any blood test results ready for the call — this helps your surgeon give the best advice.
Step 2: Pre-Operative Assessment
Before surgery, you’ll have a complete health check:
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Blood tests, ECG, and sometimes ultrasound or endoscopy.
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Anaesthetist review to ensure you are fit for surgery.
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Dietitian consultation to prepare you for pre-op diet changes (important for shrinking the liver and making surgery safer).
Step 3: Your Chosen Procedure
Here’s a quick look at the three main options:
Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy)
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What it is: About 75–80% of the stomach is removed, leaving a slim “sleeve”.
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Hospital stay: 3–4 nights.
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Results: Long-term weight loss, improved diabetes and blood pressure.
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Ideal for: Patients with BMI ≥35, or BMI 30–35 with health issues like type 2 diabetes.
Gastric Balloon
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What it is: A soft balloon placed endoscopically inside the stomach and filled with saline.
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Hospital stay: 2 nights
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Results: Helps portion control and early satiety.
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Ideal for: Patients who prefer a non-surgical, temporary weight-loss solution.
Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y)
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What it is: The stomach is divided into a small pouch and connected to the small intestine, bypassing part of the gut.
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Hospital stay: 3–4 nights.
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Results: Significant, durable weight loss, excellent for reflux control and diabetes remission.
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Ideal for: Patients with severe obesity, uncontrolled reflux, or metabolic issues.
Step 4: Recovery & Follow-Up
Your recovery will depend on which procedure you have:
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Sleeve & bypass: Most patients walk within hours of surgery and can return home after a few days. You’ll follow a staged diet — liquids, soft foods, then solids.
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Balloon: You may feel nausea or bloating for a few days but can usually go back to normal activities quickly.
We’ll provide:
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Written post-op instructions and a 24/7 contact number.
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Dietitian support to help you transition safely to solid foods.
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Online follow-up appointments to track progress and troubleshoot.
Step 5: Life After Surgery
Weight-loss surgery is a powerful tool, but long-term success depends on:
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Sticking to your new healthy diet and portion sizes.
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Taking vitamin supplements as recommended.
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Regular exercise and follow-up appointments.
Most patients report not just weight loss but better energy, improved self-confidence, and a healthier relationship with food.
Why Choose Cyprus or Turkey?
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Modern private hospitals and experienced surgeons.
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Lower costs compared with UK private care.
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Short flights and easy access from the UK & Europe.
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English-speaking teams and full aftercare support.
Ready to start your journey?
📲 Chat with us on WhatsApp for your free consultation and personalised treatment plan.