Is Surgery Right For Me?

If you have been struggling to lose weight, a surgical or non-surgical procedure may be a good choice. Studies show that very few people can lose and keep weight off long-term on their own.


Bariatric surgery is the safest and most effective way to lose weight and improve health conditions associated with obesity. Recommendations for weight loss surgery are based on the 2022 American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) and the International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO) Indications for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. These guidelines represent major updates to the 1991 National Institute of Health bariatric surgery guidelines.


These guidelines use your Body Mass Index (BMI) and medical history to determine your eligibility. Although final recommendations can only be made after speaking with a weight loss surgeon in our office, you may be eligible if:

  • Your body mass index (BMI) is >35 kg/m2, regardless of comorbidities' presence, absence, or severity.
  • You have a metabolic disease and a BMI of 30-34.9 kg/m2 and have been unable to achieve substantial or durable weight loss or co-morbidity improvement using nonsurgical methods.
  • Your BMI is >BMI >27.5 kg/m2 and you are Asian
  • Your BMI is>30 kg/m2, and you have type II diabetes mellitus
  • You have clinically severe obesity (BMI >35), and you need a joint replacement, organ transplant or abdominal wall hernia repair


Medical Evaluation for Weight Loss Surgery

  • Initial screening: The journey towards weight loss surgery begins with an initial screening to help determine if you meet the basic criteria for weight loss surgery.
  • Body mass index (BMI): Per criteria outlined above
  • Obesity-related health conditions: Weight loss surgery may be recommended for individuals with obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, hypertension, or high cholesterol levels.


You may require further investigations to diagnose and help treat medical conditions. We aim to ensure you’re medically optimised before surgery to make surgery and your recovery as safe as possible.


Psychological Considerations for Weight Loss Surgery

Weight loss after surgery depends on your ability to change behaviours in eating and exercise. Good mental health is important for your treatment. Your team's goals are identifying psychological risk factors, addressing problems, and deciding whether you're ready for surgery. All patients will meet with our psychologists, who specialise in these challenges.


Your psychologist will talk with you about the following:

  • Motivation. Are you ready to make a change and follow the program for life so that you can achieve results for life?
  • Weight-loss history. What dieting and exercise plans have you used to lose weight? Did you lose weight? Patterns in weight loss and gain can help your team understand your challenges and recommend strategies for post-surgical plans.
  • Eating behaviours. Irregular eating behaviours or eating disorders may contribute to obesity. These include binge eating, nighttime eating and unplanned grazing between meals. Some eating disorders are associated with other mood disorders and other mental health conditions.
  • Mood disorders. Depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or other mood disorders are associated with obesity, and these conditions may make it difficult to manage your weight.
  • Support systems and networks you have in place to share and support your journey with.
  • Barriers to your success. This might be people, circumstances, environment or even your mindset that need to be addressed so that you have the best possible chance of success after surgery.
  • Alcohol and drug use.
  • Suicide risk.


The decision to proceed with surgery and what procedure is performed will be based on an informed decision between you and your surgeon. The decision is always tailored to your needs to ensure your surgery is right for you.


Lifestyle Changes Required for Weight Loss Surgery

  • Dietary modifications: Following weight loss surgery, a new way of eating is necessary to achieve and maintain long-term success. This typically involves consuming smaller portions, choosing nutrient-dense foods, and avoiding high-calorie or sugary items.
  • Regular exercise: Incorporating physical activity into your daily routine is essential for weight management and overall well-being. Consult your healthcare team to develop an exercise plan that suits your abilities and goals.
  • Ongoing medical follow-up: After weight loss surgery, regular medical check-ups are crucial to monitor your progress, ensure proper nutrition, and address any potential complications or concerns that may arise.


Weight loss surgery can be a life-changing solution for individuals struggling with obesity. However, it is essential to undergo a comprehensive assessment of medical, psychological, and lifestyle factors to determine if you are a suitable candidate.


Barriers to Weight Loss Surgery

Often beliefs and fears stop patients from taking action. Some feelings include:

  • fear of never succeeding
  • not believing it's possible
  • tired of trying
  • tired of being fat
  • tired of missing out on life
  • poor self-esteem
  • poor mobility
  • poor overall health
  • infertility


Why Should I Treat My Obesity? 

If left untreated, obesity can lead to several serious health issues and affect your social life and financial stability.


Many patients are negatively impacted by obesity; they list some problems: 

  • lack of energy
  • lack of self-confidence
  • hiding from life
  • mobility issues - joint aches, back pain, trouble bending over, trouble walking
  • exhaustion from trying to lose weight
  • exhaustion from carrying extra weight
  • exhaustion from not sleeping properly
  • difficulty keeping up with their kids
  • reflux


Medical Issues Caused by Obesity

Obesity is a complex health condition that can significantly impact various body systems, leading to various medical issues. Beyond its physical appearance, obesity is associated with numerous health issues that can affect overall well-being and increase the risk of chronic diseases. These include:

  • Cardiovascular Disease: Obesity is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases such as coronary artery disease, heart attacks, and stroke. Excess weight strains the heart, raises blood pressure, increases cholesterol levels, and promotes plaque accumulation in the arteries. 
  • Type 2 Diabetes: Obesity is closely linked to the development of type 2 diabetes. Excess body fat interferes with insulin sensitivity and glucose regulation, leading to elevated blood sugar levels.
  • Respiratory Issues: Obesity can contribute to respiratory problems, including sleep apnea, asthma, and decreased lung function. The excess weight can pressure the airways, leading to breathing difficulties and reduced oxygen intake.
  • Joint Problems: Carrying excess weight stresses the joints, particularly the knees, hips, and lower back. This increased mechanical load can contribute to developing or worsening conditions such as osteoarthritis, causing pain, inflammation, and reduced mobility.
  • Gastrointestinal Issues: Obesity is associated with gastrointestinal problems, including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and fatty liver disease. The excess weight can increase the likelihood of acid reflux, leading to heartburn and other GERD symptoms. Additionally, obesity-related fatty liver disease can progress to more severe conditions such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).
  • Mental Health Disorders: Obesity can also contribute to mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. The psychological and emotional impact of obesity, including body image issues, societal stigma, and low self-esteem, can take a toll on mental well-being.


Social Issues Caused by Obesity

Obesity and morbid obesity can also negatively impact how you interact with others and feel about yourself. For example, patients may notice the following developments in their social lives:

  • Clothing limitations
  • Clumsiness
  • Daily life, hygiene, and sanitation limitations
  • Walking, climbing, and public transport limitations
  • Withdrawal from social activities and socialising


Psychological Conditions Caused by Obesity

Obesity is not solely a physical condition; it can have profound psychological effects on individuals. The emotional and mental toll of obesity is often overlooked but can significantly impact a person's well-being and quality of life. Common psychological disorders associated with weight gain and obesity include:

  • Depression and Anxiety
  • Emotional Eating and Food Addiction
  • Body Image Issues and Low Self-Esteem
  • Social Isolation and Loneliness
  • Decreased Quality of Life and Self-Limiting Beliefs


Suppose you are struggling with obesity and have been diagnosed with any of these conditions. In that case, you should seek medical advice from your doctor and discuss options for treating your obesity.

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