Surgery
for obesity
Obesity is an
increasing problem in the Western world and affects all age
groups including children. As well as the obvious cosmetic
problems that being obese brings there are a large number
of medical problems that are likely to develop in
overweight patients. These include diabetes, heart disease,
certain cancers, joint problems and sleep apnoea. Some of
these conditions can be life threatening and it is well
established that many obese patients are unlikely to
achieve their expected lifespan.
Thus there are many reasons for obese patients to lose
weight. The obvious solution is to eat less and exercise
more. As many of those who have tried will testify this is
not easy to achieve, and even when significant weight loss
has been achieved it can be very difficult to maintain.
Drugs can help but are not without problematic side
effects.
There are a number of operations that can result in very
significant weight loss.These operations can result in loss
of excess weight (that is weight over and above your ideal
body weight) of up to approximately two thirds. It is
important to note that, whilst possible, it is unlikely
that you will reach the ideal weight for your height.
Commonly performed operations include gastric banding,
gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy. These operations are
normally carried out using keyhole techniques. Your surgeon
will discuss with you which of these procedures is best
suited for your particular needs. There may also be
alternatives to surgery that can be considered such as the
endoscopic insertion of an intragastric balloon. This
technique produces less weight loss but may be suitable for
patients who do not meet current guidelines for surgery.'
This degree of weight loss can lead to a significant
reduction in the co-morbidity associated with obesity. For
example diabetes and hypertension (high blood pressure) can
be reversed so that patients are able to come off
medication. Similarly the complications associated with
these conditions can be prevented.
You would need to be assessed very thoroughly by members of
a multidisciplinary team including a nutritionist as well
as the surgeon before a decision is made as to whether you
are suitable for surgery. Not everyone will be suitable for
surgery and a strong motivation to lose weight is an
important factor in taking that decision.
For more
information please visit our 'Patient Information' page where
you can download information sheets relating to the
specific operations.