Surgery for long term weight loss and major health benefits

There are a range of options to help you achieve substantial and long term weight loss and transform your life.

Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, can be an option for patients with conditions that could improve through weight loss, such as high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol. Patients who have a body mass index of greater than 40 may also be recommended surgery if they have been unable to achieve a healthy weight loss through exercise and diet. Losing just 10kg can help reduce the risks of many illnesses including stroke, heart disease, cancer, blood clots and arthritis, and may help you live a longer and better-quality life.

What used to be known as ‘stomach stapling’ has been replaced by more advanced and effective keyhole procedures that see better results and have fewer complications. All options work by limiting the amount you can eat before feeling full. Our specialist consultants can advise which approach will be most suited to you.

Gastric band surgery, also known as lap banding, is a reversible procedure. A band is placed around the top of the stomach to create a small pouch, which means that you will feel full more quickly. Adjustments to the gastric band are made until the right level of restriction is achieved.

Gastric bypass surgery is a reversible procedure that restricts the amount of food you eat, reduces the number of calories that you absorb from food, and reduces hunger. The stomach is divided into two parts, creating a small stomach pouch. Food passes out of this pouch, bypassing the rest of the stomach and the first part of the small intestine. It is one of the most effective and durable weight loss procedures. Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as a gastrectomy, permanently removes a large portion of the stomach, leaving behind a smaller ‘sleeve’. Portion sizes are reduced, and patients feel less hunger. The way the stomach functions however remains unaltered, and food passes out of the stomach as normal into the rest of the intestine.

A gastric balloon is a non-surgical, short-term option. The balloon restricts the amount of food you can eat by taking up space inside your stomach. It allows you to get used to having smaller food portions so when the balloon is removed you will hopefully continue with your newly trained eating patterns.