Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery is the term used in medical circles to describe the various forms of weight loss surgery available in the UK. There are three common forms of bariatric surgery –

• A gastric bypass – which makes the stomach smaller
• A gastric band – where a band is fitted to make the stomach feel smaller
• A sleeve gastrectomy – which calls for some of the stomach to be removed entirely

If you are obese or morbidly obese, you may be a suitable candidate for any of these three types of bariatric surgery, but the one most appropriate for you will depend on your own personal circumstances. Considerations such as your BMI and other underlying conditions such as diabetes will need to be factored in – your consultant will discuss the range of bariatric surgery options open to you and recommend the most suitable course of action.

Bariatric surgery can help with rapid weight loss by making the stomach smaller. Whether you undergo a gastric bypass, have a gastric band fitted or have a sleeve gastrectomy procedure, your stomach will be downsized so that you feel fuller sooner. This means less food and fewer calories are consumed, helping to stimulate weight loss.

Bariatric surgery can have long lasting weight loss effects but it must be combined with other changes – namely a commitment to a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Although bariatric surgery should be considered as a last resort for weight loss, it has a very good success rate and some patients can see around two thirds of their body weight melt away after undergoing a bariatric procedure

The cost of bariatric surgery will vary depending on the actual procedure but will typically range from £8,000 and £15,000.