Dr. Ufuk Önsal

Bariatric surgery covers techniques used to reduce stomach volume or reroute the digestive tract in people with significant obesity and related health conditions. Gastric sleeve surgery removes part of the stomach, while gastric bypass reduces the stomach and reconnects it further along the small intestine. These procedures are generally considered for patients who have not achieved sufficient results through diet and lifestyle changes, following assessment by the treating team, and are typically performed laparoscopically under general anaesthesia.

Metabolic surgery refers to procedures performed on the digestive system to help manage metabolic conditions that often accompany obesity, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or elevated cholesterol. The techniques used can overlap with those in bariatric surgery, but the focus extends beyond weight loss to monitoring metabolic markers over time. Suitability for this type of surgery is determined by a patient's overall health status and assessment by the relevant medical team.

The intragastric balloon is a non-surgical method in which a balloon is placed in the stomach through the mouth and left in place for a set period, taking up space to help create a feeling of fullness; it is usually inserted and later removed endoscopically, under sedation. Gastric Botox is another non-surgical option, applied endoscopically to the stomach muscles with the aim of affecting gastric emptying. Both approaches may be considered for patients who prefer to avoid surgery or are not suitable candidates for it.

Laparoscopic hernia repair addresses hernias, which occur when tissue or an organ pushes through a weak point in the abdominal wall, using a camera and fine surgical instruments inserted through small incisions. This technique is commonly considered for inguinal, umbilical, or incisional hernias, and a supportive mesh is often used to reinforce the affected area. The procedure is carried out under general anaesthesia.

Gallbladder surgery typically involves removing the gallbladder in cases such as gallstones or inflammation, and is most often performed laparoscopically. Gastric resection refers to the surgical removal of part or all of the stomach, considered in situations such as stomach tumours or complications from ulcers. Both procedures are planned according to the patient's clinical condition and carried out under general anaesthesia.