Weight Loss Surgery Abroad

There are now many companies that offer bariatric surgery (weight loss surgery) abroad. These packages seem appealing, as they appear to offer reduced prices overseas. However our advice would be to be very careful when considering this as an option to proceed with bariatric surgery procedures such as gastric band (LAGB), gastrectomy and gastric bypass (roux en Y bypass) as these procedures are certainly not a quick fix to weight loss.

Initially a thorough assessment needs to be carried out to ensure the procedure is the right one for you in terms of positive weight loss outcomes and general suitability for general aesthetic and the surgery itself.

Secondly specialist long term monitoring and support post operatively through regular contact with a bariatric nurse specialist and dietician is essential to ensure weight loss is achieved and most importantly that you have a safe recovery without long term complications. Aftercare by trained specialists is crucial to bariatric surgery and should be one of the key aspects to research and think about prior to arranging bariatric surgery.

The NHS has recently reported that they are finding increasing numbers of patients presenting with problems after having this type of surgery abroad (Hill, 2008) and they do not have the facilities to treat them. Some surgeons abroad are even operating on patients who do not fulfil UK (NICE) guidelines and exposing patients to unnecessary risk. Patients are therefore having to pay separately for aftercare packages in the UK which would have otherwise been included.

If you are considering weight loss surgery abroad ensure to ask these key questions prior to arranging bariatric surgery abroad:

1. Who will you contact if you are experiencing problems after surgery?

2. Is there someone you can contact 24 hours a day for advice?

3. How frequently will you be seen post operatively for monitoring and support?

4. How much will I have to pay if I have to return to have further treatment?

5. If I have a gastric band where will I have my band adjustments done and will I have to pay for them?

6. Who will monitor my general health and take my blood samples to ensure I am healthy following gastric bypass?

Bariatric surgery should be viewed as a long term investment to your health and well being and not a quick fix so take your time, do your research, ask questions and ensure you make the right choice.

If you would like further information on the weight loss surgery abroad or would like to book a FREE consultation with a specialist nurse or dietician then call Vita Clinics on 0800 849 4050

Reference: Hill M (2008) The gastric bandits: How women risk weight loss surgery abroad because they’re not fat enough to have it done here. Mail Online www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-1079227

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