Weight Loss Treatments Abroad

1.What is weight loss surgery and who is it for?

Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, includes procedures designed to help individuals lose weight by modifying their digestive system. It’s recommended for people with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 or higher, especially if they have obesity-related health problems and have not succeeded with diet and exercise alone

2.What are the most common types of weight loss surgery?

The most common procedures include:

  • Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y): Creates a small stomach pouch and reroutes the intestines.

  • Sleeve Gastrectomy: Removes a portion of the stomach to reduce its size.

  • Adjustable Gastric Band: Places a band around the stomach to restrict food intake.

  • Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS): A more complex procedure combining restriction and malabsorption.

Each procedure has unique benefits and risks depending on individual health needs.

3.What are the risks of weight loss surgery?

While generally safe, bariatric surgery carries risks such as:

  • Infection

  • Bleeding

  • Blood clots

  • Nutritional deficiencies

  • Leaks in the gastrointestinal tract

  • Bowel obstruction

A thorough evaluation with your surgeon is essential before choosing surgery.

4.What is the recovery process like after surgery?

Recovery involves a gradual return to solid foods over 4-6 weeks. Patients start with liquid diets, progress to soft foods, and eventually transition to normal meals under dietitian guidance. Full recovery may take 6-8 weeks.
Regular vitamin and mineral supplementation is necessary to avoid deficiencies.

5.What are the advantages and disadvantages of getting weight loss surgery abroad?

✅ Lower cost compared to the U.S. or Western Europe
✅ Access to experienced surgeons in medical tourism hubs
✅ Shorter waiting times

Disadvantages:
⚠️ Limited access to your surgeon post-surgery
⚠️ Difficulty managing complications once back home
⚠️ Language or cultural barriers in some countries

6.How much does weight loss surgery cost abroad?

Here’s an average cost comparison:

  • Turkey: $4,000 – $7,000

  • Mexico: $3,500 – $6,000

  • India: $3,000 – $5,500

  • USA: $15,000 – $25,000

Prices vary by hospital, surgeon, and included services (hotel stays, follow-up, etc.).

7.Which countries are popular for weight loss surgery abroad?

Top destinations include:
→ Turkey
→ Mexico
→ India
→ Poland
→ Thailand

These countries are known for affordability, experienced surgeons, and growing medical tourism infrastructure.

8.Why does Healvoy provide this information?

Healvoy’s mission is to empower individuals with neutral, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand information before they make healthcare decisions abroad.
We do not own or operate any clinics, nor do we sell procedures. Our goal is to help you compare options, understand the process, and make informed choices.

comparison chart weight loss surgery abroad
comparison chart weight loss surgery abroad

Source:

  • Mayo Clinic – Weight loss surgery

  • Cleveland Clinic – Bariatric Surgery Types

  • Healthline – Medical Tourism Risks

  • International Medical Travel Journal