Treatment Overview
Sleeve Gastrectomy with Enhanced Recovery (ERAS) is an advanced bariatric procedure that combines standard sleeve gastrectomy with an evidence-based enhanced recovery after surgery protocol. This approach focuses on reducing surgical stress, minimizing complications, and accelerating recovery through optimized anesthesia, pain management, nutrition, and early mobilization.
In Korea, this procedure is offered at leading bariatric centers with minimally invasive laparoscopic or robotic-assisted techniques. Patients benefit from shorter hospital stays, faster return to daily activities, and improved overall outcomes. The combination of expert surgeons and advanced recovery protocols makes Korea a preferred destination for international patients seeking safe and efficient bariatric care.
Purpose & Benefits
The main purpose of sleeve gastrectomy with enhanced recovery is to achieve safe, effective weight loss with accelerated post-operative recovery.
Key benefits include:
- Significant and sustained weight loss
- Faster recovery with reduced hospital stay
- Minimized post-operative pain and complications
- Improved patient experience and satisfaction
- Enhanced metabolic benefits, including improvement in type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and lipid disorders
- Early return to normal activities and work
- Overall improved quality of life and long-term health outcomes
Ideal Candidates
This procedure is ideal for patients who:
- Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥ 35, or ≥ 30 with obesity-related comorbidities
- Are seeking minimally invasive bariatric surgery with optimized recovery
- Are motivated to follow post-operative dietary and lifestyle modifications
- Require enhanced safety and accelerated recovery protocols
International patients benefit from Korea’s advanced surgical expertise, modern facilities, and comprehensive ERAS programs.
Possible Risks & Complications
Although ERAS protocols reduce complications, potential risks of sleeve gastrectomy include:
- Bleeding or infection
- Staple line leaks
- Nutritional deficiencies if post-operative guidelines are not followed
- Gastroesophageal reflux or stomach irritation
- Rare complications such as blood clots or anesthesia-related issues
Korean centers conduct thorough pre-operative assessments, imaging, and nutritional counseling to minimize risks and ensure safety.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korean bariatric centers use advanced laparoscopic and robotic-assisted techniques for sleeve gastrectomy, combined with enhanced recovery protocols. Key elements include:
- Optimized anesthesia and pain management
- Early post-operative mobilization
- Early introduction of liquids and gradual diet progression
- Multidisciplinary support including nutrition, physiotherapy, and patient education
Pre-operative preparation includes lab tests, imaging, and counseling, while post-operative care focuses on monitoring, supplementation, and lifestyle guidance.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Assessment: Review of medical history, BMI, and evaluation of obesity-related conditions.
- Pre-Operative Preparation: Nutritional guidance, lab tests, and lifestyle counseling.
- Surgery: Laparoscopic or robotic-assisted sleeve gastrectomy with ERAS protocol. Duration typically 1–2 hours.
- Hospital Stay: Shortened to 1–3 days due to ERAS protocol, with early mobilization and monitoring.
- Postoperative Care: Gradual diet progression, nutritional supplementation, pain management, and early physical activity for sustained recovery and weight loss.
International patients are assisted with hospital admission, travel, and follow-up care.
Recovery & After-Care
Enhanced recovery protocols result in:
- Reduced post-operative pain and discomfort
- Earlier resumption of daily activities, usually within a week
- Adherence to dietary and supplementation guidelines
- Regular follow-up to monitor weight loss, nutritional status, and metabolic improvements
Patients are encouraged to maintain physical activity and long-term lifestyle changes for optimal outcomes.
Results & Longevity
Patients can expect:
- Significant and sustained weight loss
- Improvement or resolution of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and other metabolic disorders
- Accelerated recovery compared to traditional sleeve gastrectomy
- Long-term benefits in mobility, energy, and overall quality of life
Results depend on individual health, adherence to post-operative care, and lifestyle modifications.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea is recognized globally for excellence in bariatric surgery and advanced ERAS protocols. Hospitals are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, and surgeons are highly skilled in minimally invasive and robotic-assisted procedures.
Medical tourists benefit from short waiting times, multilingual support, transparent pricing, and comprehensive international patient services. Korea’s focus on safety, innovation, and patient-centered care makes it a preferred destination for sleeve gastrectomy with enhanced recovery.
Cost Range
The cost of sleeve gastrectomy with enhanced recovery in Korea varies depending on hospital, surgeon expertise, and facility standards. On average, prices range from USD 8,000 to USD 13,000, including surgery, hospital stay, and post-operative care.
Korea offers high-quality, minimally invasive bariatric surgery with optimized recovery at competitive rates for international patients.
Popular Clinics in Korea
Leading centers offering sleeve gastrectomy with enhanced recovery 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 minimally invasive and robotic-assisted techniques, ERAS protocols, and dedicated support for international patients.
