Treatment Overview
Mini‑Sleeve Gastrectomy in Korea is a modified form of traditional sleeve gastrectomy designed for patients seeking less invasive surgery or moderate weight loss. The procedure involves removing a smaller portion of the stomach to create a reduced sleeve, limiting food intake and promoting early satiety while maintaining stomach functionality.
Korean bariatric centers perform this surgery using advanced laparoscopic or robotic-assisted techniques. The program includes pre-operative assessment, nutritional counseling, and structured post-operative follow-up to ensure safe, effective, and sustainable results for both domestic and international patients.
Purpose & Benefits
The main purpose of mini-sleeve gastrectomy is to help patients achieve moderate and sustainable weight loss with reduced surgical risks compared to standard sleeve gastrectomy.
Key benefits include:
- Moderate and effective weight loss
- Minimally invasive surgery with smaller incisions and faster recovery
- Reduced risk of complications compared to full sleeve gastrectomy
- Improvement in obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia
- Hormonal changes that reduce appetite and improve metabolic function
- Enhanced mobility, energy, and quality of life
Ideal Candidates
This procedure is suitable for patients who:
- Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 27 and 35
- Require moderate weight loss rather than extensive reduction
- Prefer a less invasive surgical option
- Have obesity-related comorbidities needing improvement
- Are motivated to follow post-operative diet, exercise, and lifestyle guidance
International patients benefit from Korea’s advanced surgical expertise, modern facilities, and structured care programs.
Possible Risks & Complications
Although generally safe, potential risks include:
- Bleeding or infection
- Staple line leaks
- Nutritional deficiencies if post-operative dietary guidelines are not followed
- Gastroesophageal reflux or stomach irritation
- Rare complications such as blood clots or anesthesia-related issues
Korean centers provide thorough pre-operative assessments and structured post-operative care to minimize risks.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korean hospitals use advanced laparoscopic and robotic-assisted techniques for mini-sleeve gastrectomy. Features include:
- Small, precise incisions for minimal tissue trauma
- High-definition laparoscopic cameras for accurate surgery
- Advanced stapling devices for safe sleeve formation
- Pre- and post-operative nutritional counseling
- Monitoring of metabolic health and weight progress
Pre-operative preparation involves lab tests, imaging, and dietary planning, while post-operative care focuses on gradual diet progression, supplementation, and lifestyle adjustments.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Assessment: Comprehensive evaluation of medical history, BMI, and obesity-related conditions.
- Pre-Operative Preparation: Nutritional counseling, lab tests, and lifestyle guidance.
- Surgery: Laparoscopic or robotic-assisted mini-sleeve gastrectomy, typically lasting 1–2 hours.
- Hospital Stay: Usually 2–3 days for monitoring, pain management, and early mobilization.
- Postoperative Care: Gradual diet progression, supplementation, and follow-up visits to monitor weight, metabolic health, and recovery.
International patients receive assistance with hospital admission, travel arrangements, and post-operative care coordination.
Recovery & After-Care
Recovery involves:
- Mild post-operative discomfort managed with medications
- Gradual return to daily activities within 1–2 weeks
- Adherence to post-operative dietary and supplementation plans
- Regular follow-ups to monitor weight, metabolic status, and overall health
Structured care ensures a safe recovery and long-term success with sustainable weight management.
Results & Longevity
Patients can expect:
- Moderate and sustained weight loss within 6–12 months
- Improvement in obesity-related comorbidities
- Enhanced energy, mobility, and overall quality of life
- Long-term benefits maintained through adherence to diet, exercise, and lifestyle modifications
Results depend on individual health, compliance, and engagement with post-operative care.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea is internationally recognized for expertise in bariatric surgery, particularly minimally invasive procedures like mini-sleeve gastrectomy. Hospitals are equipped with modern facilities, and surgeons are highly skilled in laparoscopic and robotic-assisted techniques.
Medical tourists benefit from transparent pricing, short waiting times, multilingual support, and comprehensive pre- and post-operative care. Korea’s focus on safety, innovation, and patient-centered programs makes it a preferred destination for mini-sleeve gastrectomy.
Cost Range
The cost of mini-sleeve gastrectomy in Korea typically ranges from USD 6,500 to USD 11,500, including surgery, hospital stay, and post-operative care.
Korean hospitals offer high-quality minimally invasive bariatric surgery at competitive rates for international patients.
Popular Clinics in Korea
Leading centers performing mini-sleeve gastrectomy include:
- Seoul National University Hospital Bariatric Center
- Samsung Medical Center Bariatric Surgery Clinic
- Asan Medical Center Obesity Surgery Department
- Gangnam Severance Hospital Bariatric Clinic
These clinics provide advanced laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery, international patient support, and personalized care plans.
