Irish Patient Success Stories: Real Transformations

Introduction

Nothing is more powerful than hearing from people who've walked the same path you're considering. In this article, I share real stories from Irish patients who've had bariatric surgery with me in Turkey.

These are their journeys – the decisions, the experiences, and the transformations.

Sinéad's Story – Dublin

Gastric Sleeve – 18 Months Post-Op

Before:
• Weight: 128 kg
• BMI: 48
• Conditions: Type 2 diabetes, sleep apnoea, joint pain

After 18 Months:
• Current weight: 74 kg
• Weight lost: 54 kg
• Diabetes: In remission
• Sleep apnoea: Resolved

> "I'd been trying to get bariatric surgery through the HSE for over two years. After my second assessment was cancelled, I realised I couldn't keep waiting. My diabetes was getting worse, not better.

> A colleague at work had gone to Turkey and couldn't speak highly enough of Dr. Erol. I was nervous – really nervous – but I did my research. I checked his SRC certification, read dozens of reviews, and had a video call with him.

> The surgery itself was surprisingly easy. I was walking the same evening. The hotel they put me in was gorgeous – I actually enjoyed my recovery!

> Now, 18 months later, I've lost over 50 kg. I don't take any diabetes medication. My GP in Dublin couldn't believe my blood tests. She said if she didn't know better, she'd think I was a different person.

> To anyone thinking about it: do your research, ask questions, but don't let fear stop you. This was the best decision I ever made."

Ciarán's Story – Cork

Gastric Bypass – 2 Years Post-Op

Before:
• Weight: 165 kg
• BMI: 52
• Conditions: Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, fatty liver

After 2 Years:
• Current weight: 92 kg
• Weight lost: 73 kg
• Diabetes: Completely resolved
• Blood pressure: Normal, no medication

> "I'll be honest – I was sceptical about going abroad for surgery. I'm a careful person. But after doing the sums, it just made sense. Private in Ireland was going to cost me €18,000, and the HSE was a non-starter with their waiting times.

> Dr. Erol's credentials checked out. SRC certified, thousands of surgeries, great reviews. I couldn't find anything negative.

> What surprised me most was the personal attention. Dr. Erol himself called me the night before surgery to check I was okay. When does that happen in Ireland?

> Two years on, I've lost 73 kg. I came off insulin within three months of surgery. My liver is back to normal. I feel like I've been given a second chance.

> The journey from Cork was easy enough. Flew via İstanbul, our driver was there waiting, and everything was organised to the last detail."

Áine's Story – Galway

Revision Surgery (Band to Sleeve) – 12 Months Post-Op

Background:
• Had gastric band in Ireland in 2014
• Band complications began after 3 years
• Weight regain to 112 kg

After Revision:
• Current weight: 68 kg
• Weight lost since revision: 44 kg
• Complications: Resolved

> "My gastric band was placed privately in Dublin in 2014. It worked well for a few years, but then problems started. The band slipped, I couldn't eat properly, and eventually I was just vomiting constantly.

> I went back to my original surgeon, but he'd retired. The clinic wanted €15,000 just to remove the band – with no replacement option.

> I found Dr. Erol through a Facebook group. He was recommended for revision cases. During our video call, he explained he could remove the band and convert to a sleeve in one operation.

> The surgery took a bit longer than a normal sleeve because of scar tissue from my band, but everything went smoothly. I was in hospital for three nights instead of two, just to be safe.

> A year later, I've lost 44 kg and have none of the problems I had with the band. If your band isn't working, please get help – but find someone who really knows what they're doing with revisions."

Declan's Story – Limerick

Gastric Sleeve – 8 Months Post-Op

Before:
• Weight: 142 kg
• BMI: 44
• Conditions: Pre-diabetes, back pain, depression

After 8 Months:
• Current weight: 95 kg
• Weight lost: 47 kg
• Mental health: Significantly improved

> "I'd tried every diet going. Slimming World, Weight Watchers, keto – you name it. I'd lose weight, then gain it back and more. My mental health was suffering.

> My GP was supportive of surgery but told me straight: the HSE waiting list was years long, and I'd probably be declined anyway because I didn't have "serious enough" comorbidities.

> Finding Dr. Erol was a game-changer. From my first enquiry to having surgery was just three weeks. The whole team was brilliant – they made everything so easy.

> The weight is coming off steadily, but the biggest change is my mental health. I have hope again. I can play with my kids. I don't dread looking in the mirror.

> Would I recommend Turkey? Absolutely. But do your homework. Make sure you're going to someone with real credentials, not just a cheap price."

Common Themes from Irish Patients

After speaking with many Irish patients, several themes emerge:

1. Frustration with Irish Healthcare System

2. Value for Money

3. Quality of Care

4. Smooth Logistics

5. Excellent Aftercare

Advice from Irish Patients

1. "It's easier than you think – the hardest part is making the decision."

2. "Your GP will support you. Just bring the documentation."

3. "Don't judge by price alone. Check credentials."

4. "Pack looser clothes than you think you'll need."

5. "The hotel recovery is actually quite nice – enjoy it!"

6. "Join a support group – other Irish patients can help."

Want to Hear More?

We can connect you with previous Irish patients who are happy to share their experiences. Sometimes there's nothing like talking to someone who's been through it.

Your Story Starts Here

Every patient in this article was once exactly where you are now – researching, considering, wondering if it's the right choice.

If you're ready to write your own success story, we're here to help.

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