Obesity is more than a matter of appearance. It’s a health condition that can be difficult to manage and is often linked with serious problems like diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnoea. For some, lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough to bring lasting results, leaving them frustrated and at risk of worsening health.
That’s where bariatric surgery comes in, offering patients in Singapore a way to lose weight and regain control of their health when other approaches have failed. Notably, it’s not a cosmetic procedure. It’s something to help you manage your food better.
What Is Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery, also known as weight loss surgery, is a medical procedure designed to help people with severe obesity lose weight, achieve sustainable weight loss, and improve obesity-related conditions. This surgical procedure changes how your digestive system handles food, making it easier to achieve lasting results.
Depending on the type of surgery, it can:
- Reduce the size of your stomach so you feel full faster, or
- Change how your body absorbs nutrients and calories.
What Are the Types of Bariatric Surgery?
There are several types of bariatric surgery, each with its own approach and benefits. The most common procedures include:
- Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy) – Removes a large portion of the stomach, leaving a smaller “sleeve” that limits how much food you can eat.
- Gastric Bypass – Creates a small stomach pouch and reroutes part of the small intestine to reduce calorie absorption.
- Adjustable Gastric Banding (AGB) – Places a band around the upper part of the stomach to create a smaller pouch.
Your surgeon will recommend the most appropriate type based on your health condition, weight-loss goals, and individual needs.
When Is Bariatric Surgery Recommended?
Bariatric surgery is usually considered when other weight-loss methods haven’t brought lasting results. Doctors may also recommend it if your weight is starting to seriously affect your health.
One of the main ways doctors decide if surgery is appropriate is by looking at your Body Mass Index (BMI):
- BMI of 40 or higher – Bariatric surgery may be advised even if you don’t have other health issues.
- BMI of 35 or higher – Bariatric surgery may be considered if you also have conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure.
Who May Be Suitable for Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery isn’t recommended to everyone, such as those who plan on becoming pregnant soon or have medical conditions that make surgery risky. Those with mental health issues such as severe depression, eating disorders, or substance abuse may also not be suitable, as these can affect recovery and long-term success.
Most importantly, bariatric surgery requires a strong commitment to lifelong lifestyle changes. A specialist assessment is essential to determine if bariatric surgery is safe and appropriate for you.
Bariatric surgery is generally recommended for people who:
- Have tried other weight-loss methods, like diet, exercise, or medication, but haven’t seen long-term results.
- Are ready and motivated to make the lifestyle changes needed after surgery.
- Can commit to regular check-ups and follow-ups.
- Are physically and mentally fit to safely undergo surgery
At Nexus Surgical, we are happy to discuss your suitability for bariatric surgery and guide you on the types of procedures we offer. Book a consultation today.
How Bariatric Surgery Is Performed
Most bariatric surgeries are performed using minimally invasive techniques such as laparoscopic surgery. In this procedure, the surgeon makes a few small incisions, which generally means less pain, smaller scars, and a faster recovery.
During the surgery, your surgeon will make specific adjustments based on the procedure chosen. For example, they may remove a portion of the stomach to create a smaller “sleeve,” reroute part of the small intestine to reduce how many calories and nutrients your body absorbs, or a combination of both.
The operation typically takes one to three hours, and after the surgery, you’ll be monitored in the hospital for a couple of days. Most patients can go home within two to three days, though recovery continues at home with gradual reintroduction of foods and light activity.
Recovering After Bariatric Surgery
Recovery varies depending on the procedure, but most patients can return to light activities within two to four weeks. During the early recovery period, you can expect:
- Following a liquid diet and gradually moving to pureed and soft foods.
- Mild pain and discomfort, typically managed with prescribed medication.
- Regular follow-up appointments.
Post-Surgery Lifestyle Changes
Bariatric surgery can be an effective way to achieve weight loss, but it’s not a magic fix. To achieve lasting results, you’ll also need to make sustainable changes, such as:
- Eating smaller, more frequent meals.
- Avoiding high-sugar and high-fat foods.
- Taking vitamin and mineral supplements as recommended by your doctor.
- Staying active with regular physical exercise.
Most people shed about half to two-thirds of their excess weight within the first 12 to 18 months after surgery, but maintaining that loss long-term requires a continued commitment to healthy lifestyle changes.
Potential Risks and Complications
As with any surgery, bariatric surgery carries certain risks, which your surgeon will explain in detail. Careful monitoring and follow-up help to minimise these risks. These may include:
- Bleeding or infection at the incision or inside the abdomen.
- Nutrient deficiencies due to reduced absorption of vitamins and minerals.
- Dumping syndrome – rapid food movement into the small intestine, causing nausea, cramps, or dizziness.
- Blood clots or bowel obstruction (rare).
Cost of Bariatric Surgery in Singapore
The cost of bariatric surgery in Singapore varies depending on the type of procedure and the hospital you choose. In private hospitals, it usually falls between SGD 20,000 and 30,000, while public hospitals typically range from SGD 10,000 to 20,000 before subsidies or insurance.
The cost mentioned above generally covers your pre-op consultations, tests and scans, the surgery itself, anaesthesia, and a two to three day hospital stay, along with immediate post-op care. Keep in mind that follow-up visits, nutritional counselling, and long-term supplements may add to the total cost.
Consult Nexus Surgical About Bariatric Surgery in Singapore
If you are considering bariatric surgery, consulting a qualified specialist is the first step. At Nexus Surgical, our team of surgeons offers a range of weight-loss surgery options tailored to your health needs. From pre-surgery assessments to post-surgery follow-ups, we provide a spectrum of care to help you achieve safe, sustainable weight-loss results. Contact us today!
