Weight loss
If you have struggled to maintain your weight using diet and exercise alone, have tried the anti-obesity drugs to no avail, then you may be considering a surgical solution to lose weight.
Obesity is a disease recognised by the World Health Organisation. It’s severity is normally determined by measurement of your Body Mass Index (BMI).
|
BMI = kg/m2 |
Healthy Weight |
18 - 25 |
Overweight |
25 - 30 |
Obese |
30 - 35 |
Severely Obese |
35 - 40 |
Morbidly Obese |
40 and over |
The National Centre for Clinical Excellence (NICE), a government body set up to regulate medical treatments makes recommendations of who is eligible for different procedures. In 2006 NICE issued guidance that surgery is a suitable treatment for people who had tried other methods of weight loss unsuccessfully and who:
- Has a BMI over 40, or over 35 with other medical conditions that would be aided by weight loss.
- Does not have any psychological factors that would hinder surgery (eg endocrine disorders, alcoholism)
- Is fit for surgery and anaesthesia.
- Understands the long-term need for follow up.
Gastric Banding
Gastric band surgery is a surgical technique where a band is placed at the top of the stomach, reducing its size and the patient's appetite. This technique is carried out laparoscopically requiring at most one night in hospital.