Obesity Treatment in Turkey ? Medical ; Surgical Solutions

Introduction

Obesity is one of the most serious global health problems of our time, affecting millions of people in both developed and developing countries. It is defined as an abnormal or excessive accumulation of body fat that poses health risks, usually measured using the Body Mass Index (BMI). A BMI of 30 kg/m? or higher indicates obesity.

Obesity is not only a cosmetic concern ? it is associated with life-threatening conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, sleep apnea, joint problems, and even certain cancers. For many patients, obesity also causes psychological distress, reducing quality of life.

At SkyUp Health, we provide comprehensive obesity treatments in Turkey, ranging from personalized diet and exercise programs to advanced bariatric surgeries and reconstructive procedures, all performed by highly experienced doctors and surgeons.

Causes of Obesity

Obesity is a complex, multifactorial disease. The most common causes and risk factors include:

  • Lifestyle factors: Lack of physical activity, poor nutrition, frequent crash diets

  • Genetic predisposition: Family history of obesity

  • Hormonal ; metabolic factors: Thyroid disorders, insulin resistance, hormonal imbalances

  • Psychological factors: Stress, emotional eating, depression, eating disorders

  • Sociocultural influences: Eating habits, education level, income, environment

  • Medications: Some antidepressants, corticosteroids, and hormonal drugs may promote weight gain

  • Pregnancy-related factors: Number of births and short interbirth intervals

Modern Obesity Treatments

1. Medical Nutrition Therapy (Personalized Diet Programs)

  • The goal is to reduce body weight to a healthy BMI (18.5?24.9 kg/m?).

  • Diet plans are personalized based on patient needs, medical history, and lifestyle.

  • Focus is on balanced, sustainable nutrition habits rather than restrictive short-term diets.

  • Weight maintenance programs prevent rebound weight gain.

2. Exercise Therapy

  • Exercise preserves muscle mass during weight loss and promotes fat reduction.

  • Recommended programs include:

    • Daily walking and aerobic activities

    • Strength/resistance training for muscle support

    • Frequency: At least 5 days per week

    • Duration: 40?60 minutes daily (or split into two 20?30 min sessions)

  • Exercise also improves heart health, blood sugar control, and mental well-being.

3. Behavioral Therapy

Changing daily habits is essential for long-term success. Techniques include:

  • Self-monitoring: Keeping a food and activity diary

  • Stimulus control: Identifying and avoiding overeating triggers

  • Alternative behaviors: Replacing unhealthy eating with positive habits

  • Cognitive restructuring: Changing thought patterns about food and body image

  • Social support: Family and community involvement for motivation

4. Pharmacological Treatment

  • Certain FDA-approved medications can be used in selected patients with BMI >=30 or BMI >=27 with obesity-related health conditions.

  • These drugs should only be prescribed by specialists, as they must be safe, effective, and non-addictive.

  • Medication works best when combined with diet and lifestyle changes.

5. Surgical Treatment (Bariatric Surgery)

For patients with severe obesity or when other methods have failed, bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment.

Common procedures include:

  • Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy): Removes a portion of the stomach to reduce capacity and appetite.

  • Gastric Bypass: Creates a small stomach pouch and reroutes the intestine to limit absorption.

  • Gastric Banding: Adjustable band placed around the stomach to restrict food intake.

  • Gastric Balloon: Non-surgical option where a balloon is placed in the stomach to induce satiety.

These procedures not only result in significant weight loss (50?70% of excess weight) but also improve or resolve conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea.

6. Reconstructive Surgery (Post-Bariatric Aesthetic Surgery)

After major weight loss, excess skin and stubborn fat deposits may remain. Reconstructive surgery helps reshape the body for both functional and aesthetic purposes. Common procedures include:

  • Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)

  • Arm lift (Brachioplasty)

  • Thigh lift

  • Body lift

Latest Technologies in Obesity Treatment in Turkey

Turkey is at the forefront of modern medical approaches to obesity. Clinics and hospitals use:

  • Laparoscopic and robotic-assisted bariatric surgery (smaller incisions, faster recovery)

  • Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (non-surgical stomach reduction)

  • Metabolic surgery for diabetes control

  • Advanced post-op monitoring systems to ensure patient safety and faster healing

Why Choose Obesity Treatment in Turkey?

  • Experienced bariatric surgeons with international training

  • High success rates in both surgical and non-surgical obesity treatments

  • Affordable packages ? treatment in Turkey costs up to 70% less than in the UK or EU

  • State-of-the-art hospitals equipped with modern surgical and diagnostic technology

  • All-inclusive patient services including consultation, surgery, accommodation, airport transfers, and translation support

Why SkyUp Health?

At SkyUp Health, we are dedicated to supporting patients through every step of their weight loss journey:

  • Initial consultation and personalized treatment planning

  • Connection to leading bariatric and reconstructive surgeons in Turkey

  • Assistance with travel arrangements, visas, accommodation, and transfers

  • Multilingual medical coordinators for international patients

  • Post-surgery follow-up to ensure safe, long-term success

Conclusion

Obesity is more than a cosmetic issue ? it is a serious medical condition that affects overall health, mobility, and quality of life. With the right combination of nutrition, exercise, behavioral therapy, medications, and advanced surgical solutions, effective long-term weight management is possible.

At SkyUp Health, we provide access to Turkey?s most experienced obesity specialists and cutting-edge technologies, ensuring safe, effective, and affordable treatments tailored to each patient?s needs.

? Take control of your health today ? a healthier body and a better quality of life await.