Bariatric Surgery - Weight Loss Surgery UK

Weight Loss Surgery or Bariatric Surgery, as it is formally known, involves procedures performed on people who are obese in order to reduce their weight.

Many individuals find it impossible to keep the pounds off and Weight Loss Surgery can be the only way that they can take control of their weight. Bariatric Surgery is generally considered when diets and medications have failed.

Weight Loss Surgery is an extremely individual surgical procedure which is why it is important to fully understand the risks and rewards attached to going ahead with the procedure.

What are the benefits of Weight Loss Surgery?

Bariatric Surgery results in significant weight loss which can be long term; it also reduces the risk of cardiovascular conditions such as heart disease, and significant improvement in recovery from diabetes. One of the main benefits of Bariatric Surgery is the impact it has in reducing mortality levels when compared to conventional treatment and death rates have been substantially reduced in obese individuals undergoing Weight Loss Surgery.

Other benefits from surgery include increased confidence and energy levels which in turn result in higher self esteem.

What does Weight Loss Surgery involve?

There are several forms of Bariatric Surgery which all carry their own benefits, risks, and side effects. There are two main surgical methods used to reduce the body’s calorie intake, and they are:

•    Malabsorption – this involves bypassing part of the small intestine which results in less calories being absorbed by the body

•    Restriction – This involves reducing the size of the stomach which in turn reduces the levels of food the stomach can intake.

Two of the most popular forms of Weight Loss Surgery are the Gastric Band (restrictive) and Gastric Bypass (Malabsorptive) procedures. The Gastric Banding Procedure is the shortest surgical procedure out of the two with it generally involving only 1 nights stay in hospital. The Gastric Bypass procedure is more complex and generally involves 2 nights stay.

Weight Loss Surgery is a popular and generally safe procedure but choosing to have any surgery is a serious and personal decision. If you decide that this is right for you then further information on Bariatric Surgery, your suitability and the possible side effects will be provided by a qualified practitioner during the consultation stage pre surgery.

What are the costs of Bariatric Surgery?

Weight Loss Surgery costs can vary significantly from clinic to clinic and due to the patient’s individual requirements and procedure. Generally the costs of Bariatric Surgery vary between £5,000 and £10,000 for a Gastric Band procedure and £7,500 to £15,000 for a Gastric Bypass procedure.

How can I afford Bariatric Surgery?

A Weight Loss Surgery consultation is often free or may involve a deposit which is deducted from the cost of the Bariatric Surgery procedure. Don’t worry about the costs of Bariatric Surgery - most clinics offer interest free credit and flexible payment options.