Introduction
Ireland faces one of the highest obesity rates in Europe, yet access to bariatric surgery through the HSE remains extremely limited. Long waiting lists, strict criteria, and limited funding mean many Irish patients are left without options.
Turkey has emerged as a leading destination for Irish patients seeking high-quality bariatric surgery at accessible prices. This guide covers everything you need to know.
The Irish Healthcare Context
HSE Bariatric Services
- Very limited availability: Only a handful of hospitals perform bariatric surgery
- Waiting times: Often 2-4+ years
- Strict criteria: Many patients don't qualify despite medical need
- Geographic barriers: Services concentrated in Dublin
Private Options in Ireland
- Cost: €10,000-€18,000
- Availability: Limited surgeons with bariatric expertise
- Wait: 2-6 months
Why Turkey?
World-Class Quality
- SRC-certified surgeons: International gold standard
- JCI-accredited hospitals: American-equivalent standards
- High volume: More experience means better outcomes
Significant Savings
| Procedure | Ireland Private | Turkey All-Inclusive |
|---|---|---|
| Gastric Sleeve | €12,000-€16,000 | €3,500-€5,500 |
| Gastric Bypass | €14,000-€18,000 | €4,500-€6,500 |
No Waiting
- Ireland: 2-4 years (HSE) or 2-6 months (private)
- Turkey: 2-4 weeks
Travel from Ireland
Flights from Dublin
- Dublin → Istanbul: 4 hours direct (Turkish Airlines, Aer Lingus)
- Istanbul → İzmir: 1 hour
- Cost: €150-€400 return
Flights from Cork
- Cork → Istanbul: Connections available via London or direct seasonally
No Visa Required
Irish citizens can stay in Turkey up to 90 days without a visa.
The Complete Journey
Before You Travel
1. Initial enquiry: WhatsApp or email 2. Free video consultation: Speak directly with Dr. Erol 3. Medical assessment: Share your health history 4. Date confirmed: Book flights
In Turkey
Day 1: Airport pickup, hotel check-in Day 2: Pre-operative tests, surgeon consultation Day 3: Surgery Days 4-5: Hospital recovery Days 6-7: Hotel recovery, final check-up Day 7-8: Fly homeWhat's Included
- ✅ Surgery by SRC-certified surgeon
- ✅ Hospital stay (2-3 nights)
- ✅ 4-5 star hotel
- ✅ All airport transfers
- ✅ Pre-operative tests
- ✅ Medications
- ✅ Lifetime follow-up
Follow-Up Care in Ireland
Our Programme
- Week 1-4: Weekly video consultations
- Months 2-12: Monthly check-ins
- Long-term: Quarterly/annual reviews
Working with Your GP
We provide:
Most Irish GPs are supportive when provided with proper documentation.
Irish Patient Testimonials
> "The HSE waiting list was over 3 years. I couldn't wait that long with my diabetes getting worse. Dr. Erol and his team were brilliant. 18 months later, I've lost 45kg and I'm off all my diabetes medication." > — *Sinead, Dublin*
> "I was nervous about travelling for surgery, but from the moment I landed, everything was taken care of. The hospital was more modern than anything I'd seen in Ireland. Best decision I ever made." > — *Michael, Cork*
Why Choose Op. Dr. Mustafa Erol
Credentials
- SRC Master Surgeon - Verifiable at surgicalreview.org
- 35+ years experience
- 8,000+ bariatric surgeries
- WhatClinic Service Award 9.2/10
Irish Patient Experience
- Dedicated coordinator for Irish patients
- Documentation compatible with Irish healthcare system
- 24/7 WhatsApp support
- Virtual follow-up programme
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my GP in Ireland support me? Yes, most GPs are supportive. We provide all documentation needed.What about emergencies after returning to Ireland? We're available 24/7 by WhatsApp. Irish A&E will treat emergencies, and we coordinate with local doctors.How soon can I return to work? Most patients return to desk jobs within 2 weeks, physical work within 4-6 weeks.Can I claim tax relief? Medical expenses abroad may qualify for tax relief. Consult a tax advisor.Your New Life Awaits
Don't let waiting lists determine your health. Turkish bariatric surgery offers world-class quality at accessible prices, without the wait.
Thousands of Irish patients have already made this choice. You could be next.
Contact
- WhatsApp: [Quick Contact]
- Email: [Contact Form]
- Free Consultation: [Book Now]