Our Summary

Bariatric surgery, a type of procedure that helps people lose weight, is becoming a popular treatment for obesity in Malaysia. However, there isn’t a national record of how many of these surgeries are performed, or by how many surgeons. To try and get a better understanding of this, a survey was sent out to all bariatric surgeons in Malaysia, asking about the number and types of procedures they performed from 2010 to 2016. This report presents the data collected from that survey, as well as a brief history of bariatric surgery in Malaysia.

FAQs

  1. What is bariatric surgery and why is it becoming popular in Malaysia?
  2. Is there a national record of how many bariatric surgeries are performed in Malaysia?
  3. What was the purpose of the survey sent to bariatric surgeons in Malaysia and what period did it cover?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about obesity surgery is to remember that it is not a quick fix, but rather a tool to help aid in weight loss. It is important for patients to continue with healthy eating habits and regular exercise to maintain their weight loss long term. Additionally, patients should follow their doctor’s post-operative instructions closely to ensure a successful recovery and achieve the best results.

Suitable For

Typically, patients who are recommended for obesity surgery are those who have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. These patients have usually tried other methods of weight loss, such as diet and exercise, without success.

In Malaysia, bariatric surgery is also recommended for patients who have a BMI of 30 or higher with significant comorbidities that are impacting their quality of life and overall health. These patients may benefit from weight loss surgery to improve their health and reduce their risk of obesity-related diseases.

It is important for patients considering obesity surgery to undergo a comprehensive evaluation by a multidisciplinary team, including a bariatric surgeon, dietitian, psychologist, and other healthcare professionals. This team will assess the patient’s medical history, lifestyle, and weight loss goals to determine if bariatric surgery is the right treatment option for them.

Overall, bariatric surgery is recommended for patients who are severely obese and have not been able to achieve significant weight loss through other methods. It is a safe and effective treatment option for those who are committed to making lifestyle changes and improving their overall health.

Timeline

Before Obesity Surgery:

  1. Consultation and evaluation: Patients meet with a bariatric surgeon to discuss their weight loss goals, medical history, and eligibility for surgery.
  2. Pre-operative assessments: Patients undergo various medical tests such as blood work, imaging studies, and psychological evaluations to ensure they are fit for surgery.
  3. Pre-surgery preparation: Patients may need to follow a specific diet, start an exercise regimen, and quit smoking or drinking alcohol to prepare for surgery.

After Obesity Surgery:

  1. Immediate post-operative care: Patients are monitored closely in the hospital after surgery to ensure they are stable and recovering well.
  2. Recovery period: Patients will need to follow a strict diet and exercise plan to aid in their weight loss and recovery.
  3. Long-term follow-up: Patients are closely monitored by their bariatric surgeon and healthcare team to ensure they are losing weight safely and maintaining their new lifestyle habits.
  4. Potential complications: Some patients may experience complications such as infection, blood clots, or malnutrition post-surgery, which require immediate medical attention.

It is important for patients to have a comprehensive understanding of the entire process before and after obesity surgery to ensure a successful outcome and long-term weight loss maintenance.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about obesity surgery include:

  1. What are the different types of bariatric surgery available and which one is most suitable for me?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery?
  3. How much weight can I expect to lose after the surgery and what are the long-term outcomes?
  4. What lifestyle changes will I need to make before and after the surgery to ensure success?
  5. How long is the recovery period and what kind of support will be available to me during this time?
  6. Will I need to take any medication or supplements after the surgery?
  7. Are there any specific dietary guidelines I should follow post-surgery?
  8. How often will I need to follow up with my surgeon after the procedure?
  9. What are the chances of needing additional surgeries or interventions in the future?
  10. Can you provide me with information on the success rates of this surgery and any patient testimonials?

It is important for patients to have a thorough understanding of the procedure they are considering, as well as the potential risks and benefits, in order to make an informed decision about whether bariatric surgery is the right option for them.

Reference

Authors: Kosai NR, Rajan R. Journal: Obes Surg. 2018 Aug;28(8):2572-2577. doi: 10.1007/s11695-018-3289-6. PMID: 29860561