Question 1

What are the different types of gastric surgeries available in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

Bariatric surgeries are an effective way to lose weight when all other measures fail to help the patients. These surgeries work either by limiting the amount of food that can be digested by the patient or changing the ability of their body to absorb nutrients. Sometimes, it does both. The different types of bariatric surgeries available in South Africa are:  Gastric Bypass Surgery: The procedure involves dividing the stomach into a small upper pouch and a lower remnant pouch, and connecting both to the rearranged small intestine.  Gastric Sleeve Surgery: Gastric sleeve surgery is a minimally invasive procedure performed using a laparoscope, dividing the stomach into two unequal parts. Eighty percent of the outer curved part is cut away and removed, while the remaining 20 percent is sutured together, creating a banana-shaped stomach. Gastric band Surgery: The surgeon uses laparoscopy to fix an adjustable silicone band around the upper part of the stomach. Again, it reduces the size of the stomach and helps patients regulate their appetite.

Question 2

What is the cost of bariatric surgery in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

The cost of different bariatric surgeries in South Africa starts from:  Gastric bypass surgery - 9000 USD Gastric sleeve surgery - 8000 USD Gastric band surgery - 4000 USD

Question 3

How long will I stay in South Africa for bariatric surgery?

Accepted Answer

The duration of a patient's stay in the hospital depends on the type of surgery they undergo and their present condition. It can range anywhere from an overnight stay to 5 days, followed by 2 weeks of recovery. Therefore, a patient is expected to stay at least for 3 weeks in South Africa for bariatric surgery. During this period, the doctor will schedule follow-up checkups where the patient's health will be evaluated and stitches will be removed.

Question 4

What is the recovery period for bariatric surgery in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

The recovery period for bariatric surgery can vary from 3 to 6 weeks. The patient should avoid engaging in physically demanding jobs and refrain from any strenuous exercise. However, the patient should continue to move and not sit or sleep for a prolonged time to avoid the formation of clots in the legs.

Question 5

What sort of diet should be followed after bariatric surgery?

Accepted Answer

The patient is expected to follow a strict diet plan after undergoing bariatric surgery. The diet plan recommended by the doctor may include:  Replacing 3 big meals with 6 small meals Food items rich in protein Food items low on fat and sweet content Avoiding rice, bread, and fresh fruits & vegetables.  Replacing raw meat with ground meat Avoiding carbonated drinks and beverages Vitamin and mineral supplements  The daily calorie intake for 2 weeks following the surgery should not exceed 600. Post the recovery period, the patient can increase it up to 1000. The diet plan will help the patients to manage their calories, meals, nutritional deficiency, and preserve the muscle tissue.

Question 6

What is the success rate of bariatric surgery in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

The success rate of bariatric surgery in South Africa is different for varying procedures. A patient can expect 30 to 55% of weight loss within 6 months of the surgery. This can go up to 70% after a year of surgery. However, compliance with the doctor's recommended diets and following a healthy lifestyle plays a huge role in the success of the surgery.

Question 7

What are the risks associated with bariatric surgery?

Accepted Answer

The risks associated with bariatric surgery are bleeding, deep vein thrombosis, infections, spleen injury, and stenosis.

Question 8

What are the alternatives available for bariatric surgery in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

Gastric ballooning is a non-surgical and minimally invasive alternative available for bariatric surgery. The procedure involves the insertion of a saline-filled silicone balloon in the patient's stomach. The balloon placed in the stomach occupies space that limits food intake by making patients feel fuller fast. This procedure can be a good option for those who don't qualify for surgery.

India	Starting from $4,500
Thailand	Starting from $8,000
Spain	Starting from $20,000

Best Bariatric Surgery Hospitals and Cost in South Africa

About Bariatric Surgery

Average Bariatric Surgery Cost

Midlands Medical Centre (MMC) Private Hospital

Ahmed Al-Kadi Private Hospital