Gastric Bypass vs Gastric Sleeve
Choosing between gastric bypass and gastric sleeve is one of the most important decisions for bariatric surgery candidates. Both procedures offer significant weight loss, but they work differently and suit different patients.
Gastric Sleeve
Removes 80% of the stomach, creating a smaller sleeve-shaped stomach. It is a simpler procedure with shorter operating time (45-60 minutes), lower complication rates, and no intestinal rerouting.
Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y)
Creates a small stomach pouch and bypasses a portion of the small intestine. This changes how food is digested and absorbed. Operating time is 1.5-2 hours with more complex anatomy changes.
Key Differences
- Weight Loss: Bypass typically results in slightly more weight loss (70-80% excess weight)
- Diabetes Resolution: Bypass has higher diabetes remission rates
- Reversibility: Sleeve is partially reversible; bypass is generally not
- Nutritional Needs: Bypass requires more vitamin supplementation
- Dumping Syndrome: More common with bypass
Both procedures in Turkey cost £3,000-£6,000 with all-inclusive packages.