Bariatric surgeries, such as the gastric sleeve, have become increasingly popular for patients seeking long-term solutions to obesity. Turkey, with its competitive pricing and medical tourism infrastructure, has attracted thousands of international patients for these procedures. However, when things go wrong—due to surgical errors, poor aftercare, or negligence—the results can be devastating.
If you or a loved one has suffered from botched gastric sleeve surgery, you may be eligible to file a medical malpractice claim under Turkish law. At Oran Partners, we specialize in representing clients who have experienced serious medical harm, including complications from failed bariatric surgeries. In this article, we’ll walk you through your legal options and the steps you can take toward justice and compensation.
What Is a Gastric Sleeve and How Can It Go Wrong?
A gastric sleeve surgery (sleeve gastrectomy) involves removing a large portion of the stomach to reduce its size and restrict food intake. While generally safe, this procedure carries potential risks—and when medical negligence occurs, complications can be severe.
Common malpractice-related complications include:
Staple line leaks
Infections due to poor sterilization
Severe acid reflux or vomiting
Internal bleeding or damage to organs
Negligent follow-up or monitoring
Incorrect patient assessment before surgery
Not all complications are malpractice—but if your injury resulted from a breach of medical standards, you may have a legal claim.
When a Gastric Sleeve Surgery Becomes Medical Malpractice
To pursue a malpractice claim, you must prove the healthcare provider failed to provide the standard of care expected in similar situations. This may include:
Performing surgery on an unfit patient without proper evaluation
Using incorrect surgical techniques
Failing to monitor or treat complications post-operation
Not obtaining informed consent for risks involved
These actions (or inactions) could make the provider legally liable for the harm caused.
Legal Steps After a Botched Gastric Sleeve Surgery
If you suspect malpractice, here’s what to do:
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Your health comes first. Go to a trusted hospital or clinic for a second opinion and treatment. Make sure this provider documents everything clearly.
2. Gather Your Medical Records
Request all records from the original hospital, including:
Surgical reports
Consent forms
Preoperative evaluations
Post-op instructions and follow-up details
These documents are critical for proving negligence.
3. Document the Harm
Take photos of visible complications (scars, wounds), keep a diary of symptoms, and retain all receipts related to additional care or travel expenses.
4. Consult a Medical Malpractice Lawyer
Legal support is essential. A qualified lawyer will:
Review your medical records
Consult with medical experts
Determine if the standard of care was breached
Prepare and file your claim in accordance with Turkish law
At Oran Partners, we’ve successfully represented clients in gastric sleeve malpractice cases—especially international patients unsure of their rights in Turkey.
What Compensation Can You Claim?
If your case is successful, you may be entitled to compensation for:
✔️ Corrective medical procedures
✔️ Long-term health care
✔️ Emotional pain and trauma
✔️ Lost wages or reduced income potential
✔️ Travel and accommodation costs for recovery
Each case is different, and the compensation amount will depend on the severity of your injuries and financial losses.
Special Considerations for International Patients
Many patients who undergo bariatric surgery in Turkey travel from Europe, the Middle East, or North America. If you’re a foreign national, your case will still be governed by Turkish law—but language barriers, distance, and unfamiliarity with the system can make things more complicated.
Oran Partners provides:
✔️ Multilingual legal support
✔️ Virtual consultations
✔️ Document translation and court representation
Time Limits: Don’t Delay
The statute of limitations for medical malpractice cases in Turkey can vary depending on the type of treatment and specific circumstances. Generally:
- Aesthetic operations have a statute of limitations of 5 years.
- Medical treatments and surgeries can range from 2 to 8 years, depending on various legal and medical factors.
However, these timeframes are not always straightforward. Multiple details—such as when the harm was discovered or whether the case involves criminal negligence—can affect the timeline.
The best way to understand your rights is to contact us directly. We can evaluate your situation and help ensure you do not miss any critical deadlines.
Why Choose Oran Partners?
Oran Partners is Turkey’s only law firm focused exclusively on medical malpractice. Our experience includes:
✔️ Deep understanding of bariatric and gastric surgery malpractice
✔️ Legal-medical teams that work together
✔️ Access to leading medical experts for case evaluations
✔️ Proven success with both Turkish and international clients
Take the First Step Toward Justice
If you or a loved one has suffered due to a botched gastric sleeve surgery, don’t wait. Legal help is available, and your right to compensation can be protected with the right support.
Contact Oran Partners today for a free consultation. Our dedicated legal team is ready to guide you through the process with care, experience, and results.
