Is Turkey Weight Loss Surgery Safe? Know the Risks Before You Try
17 / 12 / 24
Bariatric Surgery
Medical tourism, particularly for weight loss surgeries like a gastric bypass, has become increasingly popular, with Turkey being one of the most sought-after destinations. While the allure of lower costs may be tempting, it is crucial to understand the risks and challenges associated with opting for bariatric surgery in Turkey or abroad, especially when compared to the standards and support available in the UK.
Risks of Bariatric Surgery in Turkey
Travelling for any medical procedure comes with inherent risks, and bariatric surgery is no exception. Patients returning from Turkey often report complications that require urgent NHS intervention. Travel-related challenges, such as long flights, limited access to care abroad, and unforeseen delays, can exacerbate recovery issues. For instance, long-haul flights increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and logistical problems may delay vital postoperative care.
Questionable Quality of Care
One of the biggest concerns with weight loss surgery in Turkey is the quality of care. While some clinics offer excellent services,, many do not adhere to the same strict standards found in the UK. In 2023, a BBC investigation highlighted unethical practices in some Turkish clinics, such as accepting patients via WhatsApp and performing surgeries on individuals without a medical need for them.
Low costs often indicate corners being cut, whether through substandard facilities, unqualified staff, or inadequate equipment. By contrast, UK-based surgeons undergo rigorous training and operate under stringent regulations, ensuring patient safety and better outcomes.
Lack of Post-operative Support
Bariatric surgery requires lifelong care and monitoring to ensure success and minimise risks. Patients who undergo surgery in Turkey face significant challenges in accessing ongoing postoperative care. Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor progress and address complications, but frequent travel for checkups is impractical. As a result, many patients turn to the NHS for postoperative support, adding strain to an already stretched healthcare system.
Complications from poorly managed aftercare can include sepsis, internal bleeding, and conditions like dumping syndrome, which causes severe gastrointestinal discomfort. Without a robust aftercare plan, these risks increase significantly.
The Tragic Story of Janet Savage: A Life Lost After Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Turkey
Janet Savage, a 54-year-old driving examiner from Penrhosgarnedd, Wales, sought to transform her life through weight loss surgery in Turkey. Like many others, she was drawn to Turkey by the promise of affordable bariatric procedures. Janet had previously tried Ozempic, a medication often used for weight loss, but decided that a gastric sleeve operation was the next step in her journey to lose three stone.
Janet booked her surgery through Regenesis Health Travel, a company based in Warwickshire that organises medical procedures abroad. Her communication with the company began on Facebook, but it soon shifted to WhatsApp for booking the procedure. On 5 August, she travelled to a private Hospital in Antalya, Turkey, hopeful for a new beginning.
Unfortunately, what was meant to be a life-changing procedure turned into a devastating tragedy. During the operation, Janet suffered a severe injury to her abdominal aorta, a major blood vessel. Surgeons attempted to repair the artery and replace the lost blood, but the trauma proved overwhelming. Janet went into cardiac arrest during the surgery. Despite being moved to intensive care, she passed away the following morning at 7:45 am on 6 August.
An inquest held in Caernarfon, Wales, provided further details about the circumstances surrounding Janet’s death. Dr Muhammad Aslam, a consultant histopathologist, conducted a postmortem examination, concluding that acute blood loss from the abdominal aorta injury was the primary cause of death. Senior coroner Kate Robertson recorded a narrative verdict, stating that while the aorta was repaired during surgery, Janet’s heart ultimately failed due to the complications.
Janet’s tragic story is a poignant reminder of the risks involved in seeking weight loss surgery abroad. It highlights the dangers of medical tourism, including the lack of strict regulatory oversight, the potential for communication gaps during the booking process, and the challenges of accessing emergency care when complications arise.
Her experience serves as a cautionary tale for anyone considering travelling overseas for bariatric surgery, urging patients to prioritise safety, transparency, and continuity of care over cost savings.
Why the UK is a Safer Option
Opting for bariatric surgery within the UK can be expensive. But, it ensures access to high-quality care, expert surgeons, and comprehensive postoperative support. Private clinics offer a level of safety and personalised care that is unmatched, including tailored aftercare programmes to support long-term success.
At Phoenix Health, we provide a range of bariatric procedures, such as gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and revision surgeries. Our focus is not just on the surgery itself but also on supporting your patient’s recovery and helping you to achieve sustainable results.
When it comes to your health, do not take unnecessary risks. By choosing the UK for your weight loss surgery, you can be confident in the care and support you will receive after your surgery. Contact us today to start your journey toward a healthier future.
References:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-birmingham-68204979