Treatment Overview
Stapled Sleeve Gastrectomy in Korea is a bariatric surgery that involves reducing the stomach to a narrow, sleeve-like shape using surgical staples. The procedure limits food intake, promotes early satiety, and triggers hormonal changes that help with weight loss and metabolic improvement.
Korean hospitals perform this procedure using advanced laparoscopic or robotic-assisted techniques. The use of stapling technology ensures precision, safety, and consistency in stomach reshaping. Patients benefit from a comprehensive care program, including pre-operative assessment, nutritional counseling, and post-operative follow-up, making it ideal for both domestic and international medical tourists.
Purpose & Benefits
The primary goal of stapled sleeve gastrectomy is to achieve significant and sustained weight loss while improving metabolic health.
Key benefits include:
- Significant reduction in stomach volume for portion control
- Hormonal changes that reduce appetite and enhance satiety
- Effective treatment for obesity and obesity-related conditions, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia
- Minimally invasive surgery with smaller incisions and faster recovery
- Reduced risk of complications due to precise stapling technique
- Enhanced quality of life, energy, and mobility
- Long-term maintenance of weight when combined with lifestyle modifications
Ideal Candidates
This procedure is suitable for patients who:
- Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥ 35, or ≥ 30 with obesity-related comorbidities
- Have not achieved adequate 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 offer multidisciplinary support, 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 minimize these risks.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korean hospitals use state-of-the-art laparoscopic and robotic-assisted techniques with advanced stapling devices for precise stomach reshaping. Key features include:
- High-definition laparoscopic cameras for accurate visualization
- Advanced surgical staplers for consistent and safe stomach reduction
- Pre- and post-operative nutritional assessment and metabolic monitoring
- Multidisciplinary team support including surgeons, dietitians, and endocrinologists
Pre-operative planning involves lab tests, imaging, and nutritional counseling. Post-operative care focuses on diet progression, supplementation, and lifestyle guidance.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Assessment: Review of medical history, BMI, and comorbidities.
- Pre-Operative Preparation: Nutritional counseling, lab tests, and lifestyle assessment.
- Surgery: Laparoscopic or robotic-assisted stapled 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 modifications. International patients receive assistance with travel and care coordination.
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 on 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 conditions
- Hormonal benefits that reduce appetite and promote satiety
- 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 stapled sleeve gastrectomy. Hospitals are equipped with modern facilities, and surgeons are highly skilled in laparoscopic 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 bariatric surgery.
Cost Range
The cost of stapled sleeve gastrectomy in Korea typically ranges from USD 7,500 to USD 13,500, 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 stapled sleeve gastrectomy 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.
