Understanding Obesity and Its Impact on Health
Obesity is not just a matter of aesthetics—it is a major health issue that significantly increases the risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and even certain cancers. In Europe alone, obesity contributes to over 1 million deaths and 12 million years of life lost due to disability each year.
While the harmful effects of obesity on physical and mental health are widely recognized, its close association with increased morbidity and mortality underlines the importance of effective treatment options.
Medical and Surgical Treatment Options for Obesity
Obesity treatment can be approached through medical and surgical methods:
Medical Treatment: Includes personalized diet programs, behavior modification, regular physical activity, medications, and hormone therapies.
Surgical Treatment (Bariatric Surgery): Recommended when medical treatments fail to deliver long-term weight control or when obesity poses a serious threat to the patient’s health.
At Mode Health Services, we understand that each patient’s journey is unique. While obesity is the most common reason for bariatric surgery, some individuals may qualify for surgery due to underlying medical conditions—even if their weight alone does not justify it. Therefore, consulting a qualified specialist is the essential first step.
Who Is a Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?
International Bariatric Surgery Guidelines
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) in the United States were the first to define surgical eligibility for obesity. According to the 1991 NIH criteria, individuals may qualify if:
Their Body Mass Index (BMI) is greater than 40 kg/m², or
Their BMI is between 35–40 kg/m², and they suffer from obesity-related conditions such as:
Type 2 diabetes
Depression
Sleep apnea
Severe joint problems
Cardiovascular risks
Guidelines by the Turkish Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism
In Turkey, the Turkish Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism offers similar criteria:
BMI ≥ 40 kg/m², or
BMI ≥ 35 kg/m² with at least one obesity-related comorbidity, such as:
Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome
Type 2 diabetes
Severe hypertension
Additionally, candidates must have failed to lose weight through lifestyle changes and non-surgical treatments.
How to Know If You’re Ready for Bariatric Surgery
Doctor Evaluation and Preoperative Preparation
If you meet the above conditions, the next step is an in-depth consultation with a bariatric specialist. At Mode Health Services, our experts guide you through every stage of the process, ensuring you understand:
The surgical procedure itself
Pre-surgical dietary or lifestyle adjustments
Psychological readiness
Potential risks and outcomes
Being well-informed and mentally prepared is crucial for the success of bariatric surgery.
What to Expect After Weight Loss Surgery
Postoperative Care and Lifestyle Changes
After surgery, your journey continues. Your body and lifestyle will change significantly, and patience is key during this adaptation period. The postoperative phase generally includes:
A custom nutrition plan created by your doctor
Gradual reintroduction of solid foods
Regular follow-up appointments
Light physical activity (based on your doctor’s recommendation)
Emotional support and behavior counseling
Maintaining weight loss success requires a lifelong commitment to a healthy lifestyle.
Why Choose Mode Health Services for Bariatric Surgery?
At Mode Health Services, we are committed to patient-centered care and medical excellence. Our team is by your side:
Before surgery: Comprehensive consultations and check-ups
During surgery: Safe, modern surgical techniques in accredited facilities
After surgery: Ongoing support, nutritional counseling, and recovery monitoring
We strive to improve quality of life and support every patient’s transformation journey with compassion, care, and clinical expertise.
Contact Mode Health Services
If you are considering bariatric surgery in Turkey or want to learn more about your options, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Let’s take the first step toward a healthier, happier life—together.
