Treatment Overview
Sleeve Gastrectomy for Obesity in Korea is a widely performed bariatric surgery aimed at significant and sustainable weight loss. The procedure involves reducing the stomach to a narrow, sleeve-like shape, which restricts food intake and promotes early satiety. Additionally, hormonal changes after surgery help reduce appetite and improve metabolism.
Korean hospitals perform sleeve gastrectomy using advanced laparoscopic or robotic-assisted techniques. Patients benefit from a comprehensive care program, including pre-operative assessment, nutritional counseling, and structured post-operative follow-up, making it an ideal choice for both domestic and international medical tourists.
Purpose & Benefits
The main purpose of this procedure is to help patients achieve long-term weight loss and reduce obesity-related health risks.
Key benefits include:
- Significant and sustained weight loss
- Reduction of obesity-related comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia
- Hormonal changes promoting satiety and reduced appetite
- Minimally invasive surgery with smaller incisions and faster recovery
- Enhanced energy, mobility, and quality of life
- Long-term improvement in cardiovascular and metabolic health
- High success rates for weight management when combined with lifestyle changes
Ideal Candidates
This surgery is suitable for patients who:
- Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥ 35, or ≥ 30 with obesity-related comorbidities
- Have not achieved sufficient weight loss through diet, exercise, or medical therapy
- Are medically fit for surgery and committed to post-operative dietary and lifestyle changes
- Seek a safe and effective method for long-term weight management
Korean hospitals provide a multidisciplinary team approach, including bariatric surgeons, dietitians, and endocrinologists, to optimize results.
Possible Risks & Complications
Although generally safe, potential risks include:
- Bleeding or infection
- Staple line leaks
- Gastroesophageal reflux or stomach irritation
- Nutritional deficiencies if post-operative guidelines are not followed
- Rare complications such as blood clots or anesthesia-related issues
Structured pre-operative assessment and post-operative care in Korea help minimize these risks.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korean hospitals use state-of-the-art laparoscopic and robotic-assisted techniques for sleeve gastrectomy, including:
- High-definition laparoscopic cameras for precise visualization
- Advanced stapling devices for safe stomach reshaping
- Pre- and post-operative nutritional assessment
- Monitoring of metabolic health, weight progress, and recovery
Pre-operative planning involves lab tests, imaging, and nutritional counseling, while post-operative care emphasizes gradual diet progression and lifestyle modifications.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Assessment: Evaluation of medical history, BMI, comorbidities, and overall health.
- Pre-Operative Preparation: Nutritional counseling, lab tests, and lifestyle guidance.
- Surgery: Laparoscopic or robotic-assisted sleeve gastrectomy, typically lasting 1–2 hours.
- Hospital Stay: Usually 2–4 days for monitoring, pain management, and early mobilization.
- Postoperative Care: Follow-up visits to monitor weight, metabolic health, nutrient intake, and adherence to lifestyle changes. International patients receive travel and care coordination support.
Recovery & After-Care
Recovery involves:
- Mild post-operative discomfort managed with medications
- Gradual progression from liquids to solid foods over a few weeks
- Return to normal activities within 1–2 weeks
- Regular monitoring of weight, nutritional status, and metabolic health
- Long-term guidance for diet, exercise, and lifestyle to maintain weight loss
Structured follow-up ensures optimal recovery and sustainable outcomes.
Results & Longevity
Patients can expect:
- Significant weight loss within 6–12 months
- Improvement or resolution of obesity-related health conditions
- Enhanced energy, mobility, and overall quality of life
- Long-term maintenance of weight and metabolic health with adherence to post-operative care
Results vary depending on individual health, compliance, and engagement in follow-up programs.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea is recognized for its expertise in bariatric surgery, including sleeve gastrectomy for obesity. Hospitals are equipped with modern facilities, and surgeons are highly skilled in minimally invasive and robotic-assisted techniques.
Medical tourists benefit from short waiting times, transparent pricing, multilingual support, and comprehensive pre- and post-operative care. Korea’s focus on safety, innovation, and multidisciplinary programs makes it a leading destination for obesity surgery.
Cost Range
The cost of sleeve gastrectomy for obesity in Korea typically ranges from USD 7,000 to USD 13,000, depending on hospital, surgeon experience, and care package.
Korean hospitals provide high-quality bariatric surgery with full pre- and post-operative support for international patients.
Popular Clinics in Korea
Leading centers performing sleeve gastrectomy for obesity include:
- Seoul National University Hospital Bariatric Center
- Samsung Medical Center Obesity Clinic
- Asan Medical Center Bariatric Surgery Department
- Gangnam Severance Hospital Bariatric Program
These clinics offer advanced laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery, multidisciplinary care, and dedicated support for international patients.
