WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY - MALTA

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 Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery or obesity surgery, is a significant medical intervention considered by individuals facing severe obesity and related health complications. In Malta, as in other parts of the world, determining whether to pursue such a procedure involves careful consideration of various medical and lifestyle factors.

Individuals who should consider weight loss surgery typically have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher. This demographic generally struggles with obesity-related health issues such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, sleep apnea, and more. Those with a BMI of 35 to 39.9 possessing at least one or more obesity-related comorbidities may also qualify.  Recently in the newest ASMBS/IFSO Guidelines BMI of 30 kg/m2 with diabetes and other obesity related diseases and patients with bmi of 35 or above have been accepted as candidates for weight loss surgery. 

Bariatric surgery is not just for those who want to improve their aesthetic appearance but is a crucial option for individuals looking to resolve chronic health issues and enhance their quality of life. The decision to undergo such surgery should always be supported by a consultation with a qualified healthcare provider, who can discuss the potential benefits, risks, and lifestyle changes required post-operation.

Our weight loss surgery Malta team provides support for such interventions, including pre-surgical evaluations, a range of surgical options like gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy, and comprehensive post-surgical care. This care includes nutritional counseling, physical activity recommendations, and psychological support, ensuring that patients achieve and maintain significant weight loss while improving their overall health.

Weight loss surgery in Malta is also an option for those who have tried multiple traditional weight loss methods without sustainable success. For many, the procedure can dramatically reduce the likelihood of mortality from obesity-related diseases and improve overall life expectancy. 

Prospective patients must be ready to commit to a lifelong change in their eating habits, exercise routines, and regular follow-up appointments with healthcare providers.

Ultimately, weight loss surgery is a profound life decision and requires a commitment to long-term lifestyle changes and medical follow-up. Those considering the surgery in Malta should seek a comprehensive evaluation by our medical team specializing in bariatric care to ensure the best outcomes tailored to their health needs.

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a numerical value derived from an individual's weight and height, used to classify underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obesity in adults. It is a simple, widely used screening tool for assessing body fat and potential health risks associated with weight categories. The formula for calculating BMI is:

BMI=weight (kg)/ (height (m))2

To calculate your BMI:

1. Measure your weight: Weigh yourself on a scale and record your weight in kilograms (kg).
2. Measure your height: Measure your height in meters (m). If your height is in centimeters, divide by 100 to convert to meters.
3. Apply the formula: Divide your weight by the square of your height.

For example, if you weigh 70 kg and your height is 1.75 m, your BMI calculation would be:

BMI=70 / (1.75 x1.75)

BMI categories are as follows:

• Underweight: BMI < 18.5
• Normal weight: BMI 18.5–24.9
• Overweight: BMI 25–29.9
• Obesity: BMI ≥ 30

While BMI is a useful screening tool, it does not directly measure body fat or account for muscle mass, bone density, and other factors. 

Therefore, it should be considered alongside other assessments and health indicators.

 Gastric bypass is a commonly performed weight-loss surgery in Malta, designed to treat severe obesity and related health conditions. This procedure involves creating a small stomach pouch from the upper part of the stomach and connecting it directly to the small intestine, effectively bypassing a significant portion of the stomach and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum).

The surgery is typically performed laparoscopically, which means it is minimally invasive and involves small incisions and the use of a camera (laparoscope) to guide the surgery. This method reduces recovery time and minimizes complications.

In Malta candidates for this surgery usually have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 or higher, or a BMI of 30-34.9 with serious obesity-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or severe sleep apnea.

The benefits of gastric bypass surgery include significant weight loss, improvement or resolution of obesity-related conditions, and enhanced quality of life. However, it requires a lifelong commitment to dietary changes, regular physical activity, and follow-up care to ensure long-term success and monitor for potential complications such as nutritional deficiencies.

Choosing between sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass in Malta involves a careful evaluation of several factors, including your medical history, weight loss goals, obesity-related health conditions, and personal preferences. Both procedures have their unique advantages and considerations, and the decision should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider specializing in bariatric surgery. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide:

• Moderate to Severe Obesity: Suitable for individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 or higher, or those with a BMI of 30-34.9 with obesity-related health issues.
• Prefer Simpler Surgery: The procedure is less complex than gastric bypass, with fewer risks of surgical complications and nutrient deficiencies.
• No Severe Reflux: Ideal for patients without severe gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), as the procedure can sometimes worsen acid reflux.
• Lower Risk Tolerance: Those who prefer a surgery with fewer long-term risks and a simpler postoperative course.
• Those who do not belong to sweet eater group, or those who generally gain weight with high calorie faty solid food, not with high carb sweets like icecream, pasta, juices, gaseous high carb beverages with no coexistant metabolic syndrome component like type 2 diabetes may chose sleeve gastrestomy.

• Severe Obesity with Health Conditions: Suitable for individuals with a BMI of 40 or higher, or those with a BMI of 35-39.9 accompanied by serious health conditions like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or severe sleep apnea.
• Higher Weight Loss Goals: Ideal for those who need more substantial weight loss and better control of obesity-related conditions.
• History of Severe Reflux: Better for patients with severe GERD, as gastric bypass can improve reflux symptoms.
• Willing to Accept Higher Risks: Appropriate for individuals who understand and are willing to accept the higher risks of surgical complications and nutrient deficiencies.

• Health Status: Comprehensive medical evaluation to determine which procedure is safer and more effective for your health condition.
• Weight Loss Goals: Consider how much weight you need to lose and which procedure is more likely to help you achieve and maintain your weight loss goals.
• Lifestyle and Commitment: Both surgeries require a lifelong commitment to dietary changes, regular exercise, and follow-up care. Assess your readiness to adhere to these changes.
• Potential Complications: Discuss the risks and potential complications of each surgery with your healthcare provider. Sleeve gastrectomy has fewer risks of nutrient deficiencies, while gastric bypass offers more significant weight loss but comes with higher risks.
• Support System: Ensure you have a support system in place, including healthcare providers, family, and friends, to help you through the recovery process and lifestyle changes.

• Preoperative Evaluation: A thorough preoperative evaluation by a bariatric surgeon in Malta is essential. This includes medical history, physical examination, and possibly psychological assessment.
• Personalized Recommendation: Based on the evaluation, your surgeon will provide a personalized recommendation, taking into account your health status, weight loss goals, and personal preferences.

In summary, choosing between sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass in Malta involves a comprehensive assessment of your medical condition, weight loss goals, and lifestyle considerations. Consulting with a  bariatric surgeon is crucial to making an informed decision that aligns with your health needs and personal circumstances.

1. Infection: Post-surgical infections can occur at the incision sites or internally. Symptoms may include fever, redness, and swelling. Severe infections might require additional medical treatment or surgery.
2. Blood Clots: Patients undergoing weight loss surgery are at risk of developing blood clots, particularly in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (pulmonary embolism). These can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.
3. Nutritional Deficiencies: Bariatric surgery can lead to malabsorption of essential nutrients, including vitamins and minerals. This is particularly common in procedures like gastric bypass, where parts of the digestive system are bypassed.
4. Dumping Syndrome: This condition occurs when food moves too quickly from the stomach to the small intestine, causing nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. It is often triggered by eating high-sugar or high-fat foods.
5. Anastomotic Leaks: Leaks at the surgical join between the stomach and intestine can occur, leading to severe infection and requiring urgent medical intervention.
6. Ulcers: Ulcers can develop at the site where the stomach connects to the small intestine, causing pain and potential bleeding.
7. Bowel Obstruction: Scar tissue or internal hernias can cause blockages in the intestines, leading to severe abdominal pain and the need for additional surgery.

1. Preoperative Assessment: A thorough preoperative evaluation can help identify potential risk factors and optimize the patient's condition before surgery. This includes managing any existing health issues like diabetes or hypertension.
2. Surgical Expertise: Choosing an experienced bariatric surgeon and a reputable surgical facility can significantly reduce the risk of complications. Surgeons with extensive experience in weight loss procedures are better equipped to handle complex cases and unexpected challenges.
3. Postoperative Care: Close monitoring after surgery is essential. Regular follow-up visits with the surgical team allow for early detection and treatment of complications. Patients should adhere to prescribed postoperative care plans, including wound care and activity restrictions.
4. Nutritional Support: Lifelong nutritional monitoring and supplementation are crucial to prevent deficiencies. Patients should work with a dietitian to ensure they receive adequate vitamins and minerals, and follow a balanced diet tailored to their new digestive system.
5. Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting healthy lifestyle habits, such as regular physical activity and avoiding high-sugar and high-fat foods, can prevent complications like dumping syndrome and support long-term weight management.
6. Education and Support: Comprehensive education about the risks, benefits, and lifestyle changes associated with bariatric surgery can empower patients to take an active role in their recovery and ongoing health. Support groups and counseling can also provide valuable resources and encouragement.

By understanding these risks and implementing preventive measures, patients and healthcare providers can work together to maximize the benefits of weight loss surgery while minimizing potential complications.