Why should I consider weight loss surgery at DHI?
Founded and mentored by Dr. Muffazal Lakdawala, pioneer in scarless bariatric surgery, we are recognized as one of India's and Asia's best centre for Laparoscopic GI surgeries. Our proven record as well as our reputation for complete doctor-patient confidentiality, has made ours the most trusted, safest and longest-running bariatric centre in India.
At Digestive Health Institute, we have practiced and mastered the art of single incision bariatric surgery and have performed the largest number of these surgeries in the world to date.
What are my options for weight loss surgery at DHI?
At Digestive Health Institute, we perform all types of primary and redo bariatric procedures such as Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy, Laparoscopic Roux En Y Gastric Bypass, Laparoscopic Banded Gastric Bypass, Laparoscopic One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass / Mini Gastric Bypass, Laparoscopic Duodenojejunal Bypass and Laparoscopic Single Anastomosis Duodeno-Ileal Bypass (SADI).
The team of medical experts at Digestive Health Institute will educate and assist you. We work with you to make the safest and best choice, based on medical examinations and your own needs. It is imperative that you follow our advice, both pre and post-surgery and remain committed to following up with us.
Who is eligible for weight loss surgery?
According to a paper published by the Asian Consensus Meeting on Metabolic Surgery, which the Digestive Health Institute spearheaded, bariatric surgery is an option for those who have a BMI of above 30 kg/m2 with other conditions, like, hypertension, diabetes, PCOD, sleep apnea; or above 35 kg/m2 without other conditions.
What is Body Mass Index (BMI), and how can I calculate mine?
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measurement of a person’s weight with respect to his/her height.
BMI is used for screening overweight and obese individuals. Use our BMI Calculator to calculate your body mass index
BMI Formula:
| Body Mass Index = |
Body weight (in kg) |
| |
Height (in m)2 |
BMI range:
Underweight: <18
Normal: 18 – 24.9
Over-weight: 25 – 29.9
Obese: 30 – 37.4
Morbidly Obese: >37.5
How much weight can I expect to lose after surgery and how quickly?
Nearly 60-80% of the excess body weight in 12- 24 months, depending on the type of surgery.
What should I expect after surgery?
After surgery your stomach will become very different from the way it is now. This means that you need to change the way you view food and the way you eat. At Digestive Health Institute, our effort will be to help your body and mind adapt to the new size of your stomach, as our team is committed to being with you at every step of the journey.
Bariatric surgery is also not just a means of shedding the extra weight off your body. It provides various other benefits that will improve your overall health and lifestyle, like:
- Remission of diabetes (type 2 diabetes)
- Remission of/Reduction in medication for hypertension, cholesterol & acidity
- Improved cardiovascular conditions
- Relief from joint pain
- Improved fertility
- Elimination of sleep apnea
- Improved hormonal balance
- Improved quality of life
It is also important to remember, while we will always do everything we can to support you, you must take responsibility for your own health and wellness. Please do not compare your progress with others as every patient is a separate individual and results vary from case to case.
When can the surgery be scheduled, once the consultation is done?
The surgery can be scheduled within 7-10 days post the consultation and once the clinical clearance is given.
Are there any side effects of the surgery?
While weight loss surgery works wonders for many, there are a few temporary side effects that may affect you. Some of these include:
- Nausea/Vomiting – Changes in the gut hormones might initially cause mild nausea or vomiting. These symptoms can also be aggravated if you eat too fast or too much, or leave long gaps between meals.
- Constipation – This is mainly caused by two factors- the liquid diet lacks fiber; and when you resort to solids, you are eating much less than you used to.
- Acidity – Slight acidity may occur in some cases.
- Bloating/Excess gas/Flatulence – This is a consequence of the changes in your digestive system. It can be aggravated if you eat too fast, or use a straw to drink.
- Slight Surgical Pain – Post a surgery, expect slight pain near the area of the stitches for a few days. It can also be caused by the muscle pull that occurs while bending, sneezing or coughing.
- Dumping Syndrome – This may occur in some cases.
Are there any post-surgical complications?
At an accredited center like the Digestive Health Institute, where the surgeons have an experience of 15+ years, complications are rare. But in some cases, a person may develop gall bladder stones, internal hernias or ulcers. Have a detailed online consult discussion with our surgeon to know more about the pros and cons of the surgery.
Can I travel immediately after the surgery?
It is advisable to complete your first post-op follow-up with us, which is 7 days post-surgery, after which you can travel back to your home city/country. Although, you can travel short-distance immediately the next day of the surgery.
When can I start exercising in the gym after the surgery?
For the first 3 months after surgery, heavy lifting / strenuous exercise / sports is completely prohibited. Only simple walking and movement is advised; bed rest is not recommended.
3 months after your bariatric surgery, you are eligible to enroll in our Post-Surgical Accelerated Rehab Program (PSAR). We recommend cardio exercises to be gradually started and post completion of 6 months, weights and strength training exercises can be gradually started.
Is lifetime supplementation necessary after the surgery?
Bariatric surgery can lead to reduced absorption of vitamins and minerals because of the restricted food intake. In order to prevent nutritional deficiencies post-surgery, lifetime supplementation is necessary in case of some surgeries like Gastric Bypass.
How safe is the surgery during the COVID era?
At DHI, we follow an effective protocol of screening patients before surgery. We do not proceed for the surgery until it is safe for the patient. Moreover, we only perform surgeries in COVID-free hospitals in Mumbai.
Can I avail of insurance for my treatment?
You can get insurance coverage for bariatric surgery if you make a wise policy choice. Insurance companies provide various health insurance policies, some including bariatric surgery coverage and some excluding the category. However, most companies offer covered benefit for obesity surgery only if your BMI is 40 and above or if your BMI is 35 and above and you are suffering from severe co-morbidities. Some insurance companies also limit the coverage benefit to specific types of weight loss surgery.
