Weight Loss Surgery

Will I have trouble with gallstones?

Weight loss by any means (including diet) promotes the production of gallstones. In our experience, about 10% of patients may still develop gallstones later, but only those who develop symptoms in relation to their gallstones will require surgery, which may simply be performed laparoscopically to remove the gallbladder (called 'laparoscopic cholecystectomy').

I have diabetes, should I continue to take my diabetes medicine?

It is not uncommon for patients with diabetes, particularly those who were taking tablets to be able to come off their medication and control their blood sugars by diet alone. This happens gradually as the extra weight comes off. It is important therefore for you to see your doctor regularly; at least every 3 months during the first 12-18 months after the operation to check your blood sugar. Your doctor will then decide whether the dose of your diabetes medicine should be reduced. This is important as your blood sugar may otherwise drop quite low, which can be dangerous.

Will I need plastic surgery?

A variety of factors including your starting weight, weight loss that you have achieved after surgery, location of excess weight and your age influence the need for plastic surgery. In general, skin elasticity is greater in younger patients and the need for plastic surgery is less. You may need an operation to remove what might become a very saggy abdominal skin (apron) after your weight has levelled. This is usually two years after the gastric bypass operation.

Can I become pregnant?

Yes. Thousands of women have become pregnant after this operation without complications. Extra vitamins and mineral supplements are usually necessary. We do not recommend that you get pregnant during the initial weight loss phase of the surgery.

Remember to inform SurgiCare if you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, prior to your first band fill. Band adjustments and x-rays will not be performed in this circumstance

Where will the weight loss surgery be performed?

SurgiCare's weight loss surgeons are some of the UK's most experienced and use modern, well-equipped hospitals where staff are experienced in caring for patients undergoing weight loss surgery.

We only work with 'gold standard' Bariatric (Obesity) Surgeons - those who operate on the upper gut and stomach using laparoscopic (keyhole) techniques. Many will have worked in the NHS performing obesity surgery and are members of The British Obesity Surgery Society (BOSS).

What about anaesthesia?

Many patients are worried about having a general anaesthetic if they are carrying excess weight. SurgiCare ONLY USE the services of Consultant Anaesthetists who come on the personal recommendation of the Surgeon and are extremely experienced in anaesthetising and managing the airway of larger patients.

We will carefully assess you at your consultation and before surgery to identify any specific risk factors, and then develop a plan to best manage them.

What happens afterwards?

Aftercare following weight loss surgery is essential. With SurgiCare's aftercare programme, if you have any worries or concerns, need help or are experiencing a problem/complication help is there for you day or night via your team of experts and the 24 hour emergency helpline.

Many research studies have shown that where aftercare is poor, the rate and extent of complications increases. Having weight loss surgery without an extended aftercare programme is not a safe option. Recent TV documentaries and newspaper articles have focused on a few case studies that clearly show the effects of poor aftercare.

How safe is weight loss surgery?

SurgiCare never compromise on safety. We offer:

• 24 hour telephone access to a highly experienced Obesity specialist
• Extended unique aftercare programmes. You are checked frequently by our multi-disciplinary specialist clinical team to ensure all is well and give you peace of mind
• The ability to see an expert surgeon promptly when it is needed

Should I involve my GP?

We work hard to establish a good working relationship with your GP (even if they weren't supportive about weight loss surgery at the outset).

The more we understand your medical history, the better.

Anything else on your mind?

If you would like to ask a question about weight loss or obesity surgery please send us your query from the contact form - we'll be happy to help.

Learn more about weight loss surgery