Weight Loss Surgery

For many people, losing weight can be achieved by eating healthily and taking regular exercise. However, sometimes weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, may be necessary.

Types of Weight Loss Surgery

Generally, weight loss surgery involves reducing the amount of available space in the stomach, to limit the amount of food a patient can eat. Gastric Band surgery involves a silicone band being placed around the upper part of the stomach, causing the patient to feel fuller, faster. The band is adjustable and your surgeon may change the positioning or size of the band throughout your weight loss journey. Similarly, a Gastric Sleeve also reduces the size of the stomach, but also removes the area which creates the hormone which influences your appetite. Gastric Bypass surgery is the most invasive option and involves separating the top part of your stomach and directly attaching it to the intestine. Unlike some other weight loss surgeries, a Gastric Bypass is permanent. For patients who either do not wish to undergo cosmetic surgery, or who may be too heavy to safely have a general anaesthetic, the Gastric Balloon is a non-surgical option, involving a saline filled balloon being temporarily placed in the stomach. Once the balloon is removed the patient will have lost weight and adopted healthier eating habits, but there is a risk of putting any weight back on, without appropriate support. Weight loss surgery is suited to patients who are severely overweight or obese and who need to lose weight rapidly, for the benefit of their health.

Weight Loss Surgery Specialists

Weight loss surgery is best suited for a person who is obese, where timely intervention is needed in order to prevent or manage other weight-related conditions such as high blood pressure or Type 2 diabetes. Weight loss surgery should only be considered if dieting and exercise have not worked. To undergo weight loss surgery, you should have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more, or a BMI between 35 and 40, and be prepared to commit to making healthy lifestyle changes after surgery in order to prevent putting the weight back on.

Surgery for weight loss can help improve cardiovascular health, cutting the risk of coronary heart disease and stroke. By losing weight you are also putting less pressure on your joints, lessening the likelihood of joint damage and joint pain. Women who undergo surgery for weight loss find that the procedure can regulate their menstrual cycles, improve their fertility and cuts the risk of miscarriage and pregnancy complications.

Of course being obese affects more than just physical health. People who carry an excessive amount of weight often have a poor body image, leading to anxiety and depression. This weight may also prevent them from doing activities they enjoy, such as running, which can cause further mental anguish. A person who is obese may avoid activities which involve exposing part of their body, for example, going swimming or sunbathing on the beach. This avoidance may interfere with their intimate relationships, causing further stress and depression.

Weight loss surgery can be life-changing and those who undergo this procedure can enjoy significant weight loss within a few years, as well as improved physical and mental health.