Surgery is recommended when you have a high BMI and not had success with other weight loss methods. Most patients qualify for surgery if they fit the following criteria:

have a BMI of 40+ (or a BMI of 35+ with one or more obesity related conditions)

understand the risks of bariatric surgery

are committed to the dietary and lifestyle changes recommended

by the Brighton Bariatric team

have a history of weight loss attempts

are fit for general anaesthesia and surgery

Our upper limit for BMI to qualify for surgery at The Montefiore Hospital is currently 47 and at Spire Gatwick is 50. If your BMI is higher, then your options will be discussed with our surgeon. This can include diet and psychological support to reduce your BMI, or recommendations of clinics which have a different BMI requirements.

When you have your consultation with our Bariatric Surgeon, you will discuss the different treatments, benefits and risks, but it’s important to remember:

Bariatric surgery is not cosmetic surgery.

Bariatric surgery does not involve the removal of body fat.

You must commit to long-term lifestyle changes, including diet and

exercise.

Like any type of surgery, risks exist and complications can potentially

occur. In some cases corrective procedures may be required.

The best way to prepare yourself for surgery is by following the advice of the team and understanding the benefits and risks, but there are many things you can do to help you better prepare for surgery:

Understand the surgical process and what to expect afterwards.

Understand that the way you eat for the rest of your life will change. Practice the post-op diet, including the transitions from an all-liquid

diet, to pureed food, to a normal diet of smaller portions.

Talk to people who have had bariatric surgery.

Stop or cut down smoking to decrease the risk of post-operative

complications

Start a journal. Record how you feel, the challenges you face, and

the things you hope to be able to do after bariatric surgery.

Ask your family and friends for their support. Talk to them about why

you want to have bariatric surgery. It helps to have people behind

you, waiting to help.

• The fear of surgery is not irrational or abnormal; in fact, it’s very common.

If you have concerns, consider the following:

Share your concerns and fears with your dedicated Brighton

Bariatric team.

Attend a support group and speak with patients who likely share the

same fears.

Many people think bariatric surgery will be followed by a long and painful recovery period. However, most patients report experiencing only discomfort and soreness rather than pain. Recovery does however, vary from patient to patient.

If you’re concerned about pain after surgery, contact the Montefiore ward and speak with the nurse in charge. The number for the ward is 01273 828 127.

The Montefiore Hospital offers a fixed price* which covers every aspect of your care before, during and after your weight loss procedure. Specific package details for additional psychology and dietitian input are available on request from Brighton Bariatrics.

As with any surgery, there may be immediate and long-term complications and risks. These will be discussed with the Bright Bariatric team. Possible risks can include, but are not limited to:

Bleeding

Complications due to

anaesthesia and medications

Deep vein thrombosis and

pulmonary embolism

Wound infection

Leaks from staple lines

Ulcers

Breathing problems

Spleen injury

Stenosis (narrowing of a passage)

Death.

Side effects of surgery can include:

Vomiting, diarrhoea, bloating, increased gas

Nutritional deficiencies

Gallstones

Excessive sweating

Dizziness

Medical problems, such as serious heart or lung problems, can increase the risk of any surgery. However, many serious medical conditions may improve or resolve after successful bariatric surgery. The risks of the surgery are weighed against the benefits you are likely to get from losing weight and improving your health profile.

If it is found during your initial consultation or multidisciplinary evaluation that Surgery is not right for you, for whatever medical or psychological reason, we will discuss the alternative options available to you.

As with any major surgery, there will be a recovery period. Recovery time varies from patient to patient. Remember that this is a necessary step and the better care you take during recovery, the more quickly you’ll return to normal activity.