Treatment Overview
Sleeve Gastrectomy in Korea is a minimally invasive bariatric surgery designed to help patients achieve significant and sustained weight loss. The procedure involves removing a large portion of the stomach to create a narrow, sleeve-shaped stomach, which restricts food intake and promotes early satiety.
Korean hospitals perform this surgery using advanced laparoscopic or robotic-assisted techniques, offering international patients a combination of safety, precision, and comprehensive care. The procedure is suitable for patients struggling with obesity and related health conditions, ensuring both effective weight reduction and improvement in overall metabolic health.
Purpose & Benefits
The primary purpose of sleeve gastrectomy is to promote weight loss and improve obesity-related health conditions.
Key benefits include:
- Significant and sustainable weight loss
- Reduction or resolution of obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea
- Minimally invasive surgery with smaller incisions, less pain, and faster recovery
- Hormonal changes that reduce appetite and improve metabolic function
- Improved mobility, energy levels, and overall quality of life
- Reduced long-term risk of cardiovascular diseases and metabolic disorders
Ideal Candidates
This procedure is ideal for patients who:
- Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥ 30, or ≥ 27 with obesity-related comorbidities
- Have not achieved sufficient weight loss through diet, exercise, or medication
- Are physically fit for surgery and committed to post-operative lifestyle changes
- Seek a safe, minimally invasive solution for effective weight management
Korean hospitals offer extensive support for international patients, including pre-operative consultation, travel assistance, and post-operative follow-up.
Possible Risks & Complications
While generally safe, sleeve gastrectomy carries potential risks:
- Bleeding or infection
- Staple line leaks
- Nutritional deficiencies if dietary guidelines are not followed
- Gastroesophageal reflux or stomach irritation
- Rare complications such as blood clots or anesthesia-related issues
Korean bariatric centers conduct thorough pre-operative assessments and provide structured post-operative care to minimize risks and ensure patient safety.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korean hospitals use advanced laparoscopic and robotic-assisted techniques for sleeve gastrectomy. Key features include:
- Precision stapling devices to create the sleeve-shaped stomach
- Minimally invasive approach for reduced pain and faster recovery
- Pre- and post-operative nutritional counseling
- Continuous monitoring of metabolic health and weight progress
Pre-operative preparation involves lab tests, imaging, and dietary assessment. Post-operative care includes diet progression, supplementation, and lifestyle counseling.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Assessment: Comprehensive review of medical history, BMI, and obesity-related conditions.
- Pre-Operative Preparation: Nutritional counseling, lab tests, and lifestyle evaluation.
- 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: Gradual diet progression, regular follow-up, supplementation, and lifestyle guidance for long-term weight management.
International patients receive assistance with travel, hospital admission, and post-operative care coordination.
Recovery & After-Care
Recovery involves:
- Mild post-operative discomfort managed with medications
- Gradual return to normal activities within 1–2 weeks
- Adherence to post-operative dietary guidelines and supplementation
- Regular follow-ups to monitor weight, nutrient levels, and metabolic health
Structured follow-up ensures optimal recovery and long-term success.
Results & Longevity
Patients can expect:
- Significant weight loss of 50–70% of excess body weight within 12–18 months
- Improvement or resolution of obesity-related conditions
- Enhanced energy, mobility, and overall quality of life
- Long-term maintenance of weight loss with adherence to lifestyle changes
Results may vary depending on individual health, commitment, and post-operative care.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea is recognized globally for excellence in bariatric surgery, particularly minimally invasive and robotic-assisted sleeve gastrectomy. Hospitals are equipped with modern facilities, and surgeons are highly skilled.
Medical tourists benefit from transparent pricing, short waiting times, multilingual support, and comprehensive post-operative care. Korea’s focus on patient safety, innovation, and personalized care makes it a preferred destination for sleeve gastrectomy.
Cost Range
The cost of sleeve gastrectomy in Korea typically ranges from USD 7,500 to USD 13,000, including surgery, hospital stay, and post-operative care.
Korean hospitals offer high-quality bariatric surgery at competitive rates for international patients.
Popular Clinics in Korea
Leading centers providing 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 minimally invasive and robotic-assisted techniques, international patient support, and personalized care plans.
