If you have tried diets and lifestyle changes with little to no success or your health is at risk due to your weight, bariatric surgery could be an option for you. The decision to undergo weight loss surgery is highly personal and should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional. It is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and several factors need to be considered to determine if weight loss surgery is right for you.
Key areas to consider:
Body Mass Index (BMI)
The NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidelines, followed by the NHS, state that people wishing to seek obesity treatment must fit one of the following criteria:
- A BMI +35 with other weight-related illnesses such as sleep apnoea, heart conditions or type 2 diabetes; or
- A BMI + 40 if they do not have additional health-related illnesses.
Obesity-related health conditions
If you have obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnoea, or joint problems, surgery may be considered as a treatment option.
Failed attempts at weight loss
If you have made sustained efforts to lose weight through diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes without success, weight loss surgery may be discussed as a more effective intervention.
Medical history
Your overall health and medical history will be assessed. Certain medical conditions may impact the type of surgery recommended or pose additional risks.
Psychological evaluation
A psychological evaluation is often part of the pre-surgical process to assess your mental health and readiness for the significant lifestyle changes associated with weight loss surgery.
Commitment to lifestyle changes
Successful outcomes after weight loss surgery require a commitment to long-term lifestyle changes, including dietary modifications, regular physical activity, and ongoing medical follow-ups.
Understanding risks and benefits
It’s crucial to have a clear understanding of the potential risks and benefits associated with weight loss surgery. This includes both short-term and long-term considerations.
Support system
Having a strong support system, including family, friends, and healthcare professionals, is important for post-surgery success. Emotional and social support can contribute to a positive outcome.
Age and general health
Age and overall health are factors that will be taken into account. The risks and benefits of weight loss surgery may vary based on individual circumstances.
Type of weight loss surgery
Different types of weight loss surgeries, such as Gastric Bypass, Gastric Sleeve, and Gastric Band, have varying levels of complexity and potential outcomes. The most suitable procedure for you will depend on your individual needs and health status.
I’m ready but what should I do next?
At Streamline, we believe that every patient is unique, so we do not have a hard and fast criteria for our treatment options. However, it is important that we carry out a detailed assessment that takes the factors below into considerations. There is a lot to consider but if you are serious about losing weight and to make the lifelong commitment required, the best next step you can take is to have a consultation with a bariatric surgeon.
A consultation will give you the chance to discuss in more detail if this is an appropriate option for you. As well as an opportunity to gain more knowledge about the different types of bariatric surgery and what benefits they could provide you.
To enquire with Streamline about the weight loss procedures we offer, please call 0333 016 3030 or fill in the online enquiry form below.