Gastric Sleeve in Vietnam: Safe & Affordable Weight-Loss Surgery

Obesity and its related health complications — including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnoea — are rising globally. More people are seeking effective, long-term solutions. One of the most popular surgical options is the sleeve gastrectomy (often called the gastric sleeve). This procedure is now being offered in several countries as part of medical tourism, and Vietnam has emerged as an attractive destination for international patients. In this article we’ll explore what a gastric sleeve is, why Vietnam is becoming a prime destination for it, what patients should expect, the costs, and how to choose the right hospital and surgeon.

What Is a Gastric Sleeve?

The term “gastric sleeve” refers to a surgical weight-loss procedure formally known as laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). In simplified terms:

• The surgeon removes approximately 75-80% of the stomach’s volume, leaving a narrow, banana-shaped “sleeve” of stomach.

• The reduced stomach size restricts how much food can be eaten in a sitting, and the removal of part of the stomach also lowers levels of hunger hormones (like ghrelin).

• The procedure is usually done via minimally-invasive (laparoscopic) methods — multiple small incisions, camera guidance, faster recovery and less scarring.

• It’s often chosen for patients with a high Body Mass Index (BMI) who have not achieved significant weight loss through diet, exercise and medical therapy alone.

This procedure is distinct from other bariatric surgeries (for example, the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass) which alter the digestive tract more extensively. While bypass procedures combine restriction (smaller stomach) with malabsorption (shorter digestive tract), the sleeve gastrectomy focuses on restriction and hormonal changes.

Why Choose Vietnam for Gastric Sleeve?

Vietnam has become increasingly popular for medical tourism, and several factors contribute to its appeal for bariatric surgery.

1. Advanced Hospitals & Surgeon Expertise

Leading Vietnamese hospitals are equipped with modern facilities, perform laparoscopic surgery and adhere to international standards. Hospitals such as FV Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City and the Vinmec Healthcare System provide bariatric surgery including sleeve gastrectomy with international-level quality and safety.

2. Competitive Costs

Cost is a major consideration for patients travelling for surgery. In Vietnam, sleeve gastrectomy procedures are reported to begin from around USD 4,000 to USD 8,000 depending on the hospital and package.
By contrast, comparable procedures in Australia or the U.S. often cost significantly more — making Vietnam an attractive option for those seeking high-quality care at affordable prices.

3. Medical Tourism Infrastructure & Language Support

Vietnam’s medical tourism sector is increasingly geared toward international patients: English- (and other language)-speaking staff, international patient departments, combined travel/medical packages, and support services such as visa assistance and accommodation.
For international patients, especially from Australia, New Zealand, North America, Europe or Southeast Asia, this infrastructure can make the process smoother.

4. Recovery & Add-on Travel Benefits

Many medical tourists appreciate the idea of combining treatment with recovery time in a destination offering comfortable facilities, good hospitality and tourism options. Vietnam offers cultural and travel attractions such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Nha Trang, which can make stay-and-recover more appealing.

Eligibility & What to Expect Before Surgery

Before undergoing a gastric sleeve, several important steps and evaluations are required to assess suitability and prepare the patient:

• Eligibility criteria: Generally, patients with a BMI ≥ 40 —or ≥ 35 with serious obesity-related conditions such as diabetes, hypertension or sleep apnoea — are considered.

• Pre-operative assessment: This includes blood tests, imaging, nutritional evaluation, heart/lung assessment, psychological readiness, and sometimes a pre-surgery diet to reduce liver size.

• Informed discussion: The surgeon should explain risks, benefits, expected weight loss, lifestyle changes required, follow-up commitments, and alternative treatments.

• Procedure day: Under general anaesthesia, laparoscopic incisions are made, the surgeon inserts a sizing tube into the stomach, then uses a stapler to form the sleeve, and removes the excised stomach portion.

• Hospital stay & recovery: Patients generally stay in hospital a few days, under monitoring. Then they shift to a recovery phase, transitioning diets from liquid → soft → solids over weeks.

Costs and What’s Included

Understanding the cost structure is vital. For gastric sleeve in Vietnam:

• The cost of sleeve gastrectomy in Vietnam begins from USD 4,000–8,000 depending on hospital choice, surgeon’s experience, and included services.

• These costs typically cover the surgery itself, hospital stay, anesthesia, and initial follow-up. Patients should verify what is included: e.g., pre-operative tests, post-operative dietary counselling, accommodation, transportation, etc.

Important: International patients must also budget for:

• Travel (flights, visas, accommodations)

• Extended hospital and recovery stay

• Any revision or follow-up overseas (if required)

• Lifestyle modifications such as diet/nutrition programs

• Possibly, costs of complications or extended stay

Expected Results and Possible Risks

Results: Many patients undergoing sleeve gastrectomy lose a significant proportion of excess weight, often 60-70% of excess body weight within one to two years.
Beyond weight loss, many comorbid conditions improve: type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnoea often resolve or improve markedly.

Risks: As with all major surgery, there are risks such as:

• Bleeding or infection

• Staple-line leak

• Nutritional deficiencies

• Regain of weight if lifestyle changes are not maintained

• Possible need for revision surgery

Success depends not only on the surgical technique but also the patient’s commitment to long-term lifestyle change, diet, and follow-up care.

Choosing the Right Hospital and Surgeon in Vietnam

When selecting a provider for gastric sleeve in Vietnam, consider the following:

1. Hospital Accreditation & Standards: Check for JCI or ISO accreditation and a proven track record in bariatric surgery.

2. Surgeon Experience: Ask about the number of sleeve gastrectomies performed and the complication rates.

3. Comprehensive Care Team: Ensure there is a team including a dietitian, psychologist, and follow-up coordinator.

4. Pre- and Post-operative Support: Look for packages that include nutritional counselling, psychological support, and follow-up monitoring.

5. Transparent Pricing & Inclusions: Confirm all inclusions and possible extra charges.

6. Language & Communication: Ensure English communication is available.

7. Patient Testimonials & Success Stories: Check previous patient experiences.

8. Aftercare & Travel Considerations: Ask how follow-up will be managed after you return home.

9. Emergency Support: Understand the hospital’s procedures for managing complications.

Professional consultation before gastric sleeve surgery at a modern hospital in Vietnam, where international patients receive high-quality care and guidance.

Travel & Recovery Considerations for International Patients

Travel-for-surgery requires extra preparation. Key considerations include:

• Plan to stay in Vietnam at least 2–3 weeks for recovery and initial follow-up.

• Choose accommodation close to the hospital.

• Arrange for rest and limited travel in the first week.

• Organize follow-up care after returning home.

• Obtain travel insurance that covers post-operative issues.

• Follow the strict post-surgery diet and activity plan.

• Emotional and psychological support may help patients adjust to life changes post-surgery.

Is Gastric Sleeve in Vietnam Right for You?

It might be right for you if:

• You meet medical eligibility for bariatric surgery.

• You seek affordable surgery without compromising quality.

• You are prepared to commit to long-term lifestyle changes.

• You can stay abroad long enough for recovery.

It might not be right for you if:

• You cannot commit to lifestyle adjustments.

• You cannot stay abroad for recovery or lack follow-up support at home.

• You have high surgical risks that require specialized local care.

• You are uncomfortable with overseas medical travel logistics.

The Future of Bariatric Surgery in Vietnam

Bariatric surgery, including gastric sleeve and gastric bypass, is expanding in Vietnam’s healthcare system. Hospitals are improving technology, international patient services, and aftercare standards. As Vietnam’s reputation grows, it is expected to attract more international patients from Australia, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific for affordable, high-quality surgery.

Conclusion

Undergoing a gastric sleeve in Vietnam offers a balance of cost-effectiveness, quality medical care, and a welcoming recovery environment. However, success depends on choosing the right hospital, surgeon, and comprehensive support. For patients ready to transform their lives and commit to healthy living, Vietnam presents a reliable and affordable destination for sleeve gastrectomy.