Frequently Asked Questions

Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, is typically considered for individuals who have a body mass index (BMI) of >35 or a BMI of 30-35 with obesity-related health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnoea.

However, it’s important to note that eligibility criteria for weight loss surgery can vary depending on factors such as your overall health, medical history, and specific guidelines set by the medical professionals or institutions involved. Therefore, it’s recommended that you consult with a healthcare provider or a bariatric surgeon who can evaluate your individual circumstances and determine whether weight loss surgery is an appropriate option for you.

They will consider factors such as your BMI, previous weight loss attempts, the presence of obesity-related health conditions, and other relevant factors to determine your eligibility for weight loss surgery. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss your specific situation and get personalised advice.

Before bariatric surgery, common medical tests include:

  1. Physical Examination: Assessing your overall health and BMI.
  2. Blood Tests: Checking blood count, liver function, lipid profile, kidney function, glucose levels, and nutritional deficiencies.
  3. Imaging Studies: Evaluating the structure and condition of internal organs through ultrasound, X-rays, or upper GI series.
  4. Electrocardiogram (ECG): Assessing the heart’s electrical activity for any abnormalities.
  5. Pulmonary Function Tests: Evaluating lung function and identifying respiratory issues.
  6. Sleep Study: Detecting sleep apnoea or other sleep-related breathing disorders.
  7. Psychological Evaluation: Assessing mental health, readiness for surgery, and identifying potential psychological factors affecting success.

Please note that the specific tests may vary depending on your situation and the recommendations of your healthcare team.

Bariatric surgery carries risks such as surgical complications, infection, anaesthesia risks, leaks, blood clots, nutritional deficiencies, dumping syndrome, gallstones, ulcers, and psychological and emotional changes. It’s essential to discuss these risks with your healthcare team before making a decision.

Weight loss surgery, or bariatric surgery, helps individuals lose weight through various mechanisms, including restriction of stomach size, malabsorption of calories and nutrients, hormonal changes that reduce appetite, improved insulin sensitivity, and long-term weight maintenance when combined with lifestyle modifications. This surgical approach is typically considered for individuals with severe obesity and significant related health issues when other weight loss methods have proven ineffective. However, its success depends on multiple factors, and it should be discussed with a healthcare professional after a comprehensive evaluation to determine the most appropriate procedure and ensure long-term success.

Recovery after weight loss surgery involves a hospital stay of one to three days, gradual progression from clear liquids to solid foods, management of pain and discomfort with medications, a phased increase in physical activity, regular follow-up appointments with healthcare professionals, lifelong nutritional supplement requirements to prevent deficiencies, permanent lifestyle changes including diet and exercise, and emotional support to navigate the physical and psychological adjustments associated with the procedure. It’s a gradual process that necessitates careful adherence to medical guidance and ongoing commitment to sustainable lifestyle changes for long-term success.

To decrease the risk of complications associated with weight loss surgery, it’s crucial to choose an experienced surgeon, follow preoperative preparations diligently, maintain a healthy lifestyle prior to surgery, educate yourself about the procedure, adhere to post-operative guidelines for diet and activity, stay hydrated, take prescribed medications and supplements consistently, attend regular follow-up appointments, gradually increase physical activity, seek emotional support as needed, be vigilant for potential complications, and commit to long-term lifestyle changes involving a healthier diet and regular exercise. Your proactive involvement in your recovery process and open communication with your healthcare team are pivotal in ensuring a safe and successful weight loss journey.

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