Considering going abroad for your weight loss surgery?

With news emerging that the UK government is planning to remove the green and amber categories and replace them with a new system, that would allow vaccinated travellers to go to countries with similarly high levels of vaccination as the UK without the need for quarantine, we are likely to see a return of medical tourism.

Is weight loss surgery cheaper abroad?

The trend, that sees people going abroad for bariatric surgery, was growing in popularity before the global pandemic.  Of course, each person who considers traveling aboard for surgery has their own reasons but one that is often a common driving force is cost. Although clinics overseas may be more budget-friendly most often they do not have the medical safety standards that we do in UK. Therefore, increasing the possibility of complications.

The risks of travelling abroad for weight loss surgery

The medical tourism industry is almost entirely unregulated and this has potential risks to those who travel outside of the UK.  While all surgery carries a level of risk, in the UK we have the Care Quality commission (CQC) and the General Medical Council (GMC) to help protect patients and regulate the industry.

The CQC, monitor, inspect and regulate services to make sure they meet fundamental standards of quality and safety for patients. The GMC works to protect patient safety, by working with doctors and patients to achieve high standards of care. All our surgeons are registered with the GMC and Streamline Surgical is registered with the CQC, as patient safety is at the centre of what we do.

Will I get aftercare if I have weight loss surgery abroad?

As well as the issue of varying standards overseas, another factor to consider is aftercare. Sadly, it is common that overseas weight loss surgery packages have no aftercare at all. Aftercare is in fact the most important part of your journey to help you achieve your goals, in a safe and health way.  Research has shown that weight loss surgery patients who attend regular follow-up visits with their bariatric specialist team have better outcomes.

At Streamline we understand the importance of follow-up visits and aftercare. They can mean the difference between good and great results.

Streamline’s weight loss surgery aftercare plan

Our weight loss surgery aftercare is second-to-none, with our principle aims being- to treat all patients with care, concern and compassion; to facilitate your ultimate goal of weight loss; to help you become the person you want to be!

The Streamline all-inclusive plan comprises a comprehensive care package, in addition to surgery this includes:

  • Unlimited gastric band adjustments for 2 years
  • Regular contact with the bariatric team including dietitians and nurses
  • The ability to book appointments for subsequent visits to clinic
  • Access to your surgeon if required
  • Guidance and support on emotional eating from our specialist team

A team of consultants, nurses and dietitians with a specialist interest in weight loss surgery manage our bariatric aftercare packages. We offer appropriately equipped premises, in a private environment with aftercare by a team who understand the medical, psychological and social issues around obesity and the needs of bariatric patients.

If you prefer the idea of having weight loss surgery in the UK rather than travelling abroad, contact Streamline to learn more about our expert treatment clinics and our all-inclusive aftercare plan.