Obesity surgery (or weightloss surgery)

How will my life change after having weight loss surgery?

After weight loss surgery, the majority of patients experience a great increase in wellbeing and quality of life. As they lose weight they are capable of more physical activity, better general health and are less at risk from obesity related diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure and other weight related problems. The effects will be enhanced the more weight you lose. 

What is weight loss surgery?

There are several surgical procedures that can help you to lose weight and maintain weight loss. These include:

• Gastric band
• Gastric bypass
• Gastric balloon
• Sleeve gastrectomy

We perform keyhole surgery to minimise recovery time and reduce the risk of infection and scarring. Your consultant surgeon will:

• Assess your individual needs and risks
• Discuss which option would be right for you to get the best results.

Weight loss surgery treatments are clinically proven to work, with excess weight loss of up to 50% with gastric bands and up to 60% with gastric bypasses after two years.  

Am I eligible for weight loss surgery?

If you are over 18 and have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of over 35, weight loss surgery could help you lose weight. Nuffield Health hospitals are also experienced in helping those patients with very high BMI’s (over 40) as our specialist centres are able to provide extra medical support to address your safety and individual needs. We offer all types of weight loss surgery delivered by internationally renowned surgeons, backed by experienced nurses and dieticians.

How long will I have to stay in hospital after weight loss surgery?

Our hospitals have specialised facilities to make your stay safe and as comfortable as possible. Expect to stay overnight for a gastric band and at least three nights for bypass surgery.

How long will I need to take off work?

Most patients need at least two weeks off work, but the length will be determined by consultation with your surgeon and your individual progress. All our hospitals offer privacy and comfort and you’ll have a television and phone to keep in touch with friends and family. Our dedicated staff pride themselves on caring not just about your condition, but about how you feel during and after your surgery.

Cost of weight loss surgery

To make life as easy as possible, we agree upfront the total price of your weight loss treatment. This price includes the following:

• Surgery
• Follow-up appointments
• Support from your clinical team

We guarantee that the price won’t change even if you have to stay in hospital longer than expected so you can fully concentrate on your recovery, losing weight and enjoying your new life. Every patient and their needs are different however, so to get an accurate price for your treatment you will need a consultation with one of our specialists. 

Do I need a GP referral letter?

You don’t need a GP referral to come and talk to us. We welcome you at our hospitals and are happy to answer any questions or concerns you have about weight loss surgery. However to see a specialist weight loss consultant, a GP referral letter is essential. 

What happens if I decide to go ahead?

If you are suitable for surgery and have decided to go ahead, you will meet your specialist consultant surgeon who will talk through your options in detail and perform a detailed medical examination. Your surgeon will answer any questions or concerns you have and discuss the best route for you. You will be made fully aware of the associated risks and benefits of the specific weight loss surgery suitable for you. 

Expect your diet to change

Surgical operations cannot cure obesity, but they make it easier for you to learn new eating habits. With the advice of your dietician, you can lose weight and maintain weight loss. Weight loss surgery will only be successful with your commitment to follow dietary advice. Regular follow-up appointments and meetings with your dietician will help you to adjust to your new weight and diet. Your dietician will talk you through an eating plan and help you make the necessary changes in your eating habits. 

The week before surgery you will need to go on a low fat, sugar and carbohydrate diet ready for your surgery. After your procedure, your dietician will give you advice as to what you can eat. Your diet will initially consist of liquids or pureed food and finally small portions of nutritious healthy food.