FAQ Bariatric Surgery

Morbid obesity is weight of 40 kg  above ideal body weight or a body mass index (BMI) of 37.5 or greater.

Body Mass Index takes into account a person’s weight as well as their height (BMI Calculator). The Formula is

BMI = Weight in Kg / Height in M2

70-80% of patients who have weight loss surgery are successful over the long term.

No. Permanent weight loss is a lifestyle change and patients needs to follow the dietary guidelines in the months and years following the procedure.

There are different bariatric surgical procedures available. We discuss each of the procedures and its risks and benefits at our free information seminar. The procedures are:

• Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass Surgery
• Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
• Other Mal-absorptive procedures

The decision of which surgery is best for you is typically made during the consultation between the surgeon and the patient.

Laparoscopic surgery means less postoperative pain, a shorter hospital stay and a rapid return to normal activities. There are fewer complications when surgery is performed laparoscopically. 99% of our patients have surgery laparoscopically

It takes 2-3 hours depending on the type and complexity of surgery.

Potentially fatal risks include leaks from the stomach or intestine and embolism (blood clots). The chances of these complications occurring are between 1% and 2%. The risk of death associated with bariatric surgery is less than 1%.

No. Many patients are in poor health because of diseases caused by their obesity. These diseases include diabetes, high blood pressure, heart problems, lung problems, and kidney difficulties.

There are a series of preoperative tests that are required before the surgery. At the consultation, the surgeon will discuss them with you.

It will take 1-2 days.

Once you decide  for surgery, it takes 15-20 days for preparation.

Some insurance companies cover this procedure but you need to inquire with your company’s office.

Most patients miss between 1 and 3 weeks of work depending on the type of surgery and their overall health.

You will be given diet guide after the surgery, which will help you to gradually build your diet from liquid to solids.

Most patients lose weight steadily during the first year. Many will lose more than 40-50 kg during that time. Some patients lose weight for as long as two years following the procedure and may lose more than 5 kg during that time.

Anywhere from 3 to 5 days depending upon how you’re feeling post-surgery.

Most patients do not need any special assistance after discharge. A small number of patients with physical disability before surgery may require extra assistance.

The operating surgeon and nutritionist meet together with all post-operative patients at each visit. Later visits will be done by nutritionist.