Bariatrics at the edge
Weight Loss Surgery For The Super Obese
Patients with a BMI of greater than 55 are classified as super obese.
It takes a great deal of dedication and tolerance to get to this level. They have unique challenges and problems because their:
- Their comorbidity burden is likely to be higher
- Their size makes surgery more challenging
- They need to lose more weight than the low BMI patient.
Physical Weight Limit
Traditionally the physical weight limit at which surgery could be offered to the super obese has been 200kg at the Mont Hospital. In fact our largest case done in early 2016 has been a lady of 245kg BMI 79 at surgery, but she was originally 287Kg and had a BMI of 97!
Before Surgery
As you can see we always insist on some weight loss before surgery by supervised diet and exercise program because:
- It significantly improves the physiology of the patient
- It reduces the liver size and improves operability
- It indicates cooperation and compliance by the patient
- In Practical terms we need to get you below a certain maximum weight.
In fact because of the laparoscopic approach there is not a lot of difference in the difficulty between the super obese and the morbidly obese but we have to have access to the right operating equipment and post op support facilities including ICU.
Assessment before surgery to optimise physical condition may include a sleep study and psychological evaluation.
After Surgery
The weight loss after bariatric surgery in KG is more than in the low end BMI but as reflected by % EWL it is not as great because they have further to go.
Mercy Bariatrics Perth
If you have super obesity, we are happy to assess you and if you are prepared to work with us guide you through the process and preparation which will restore you to health and mobility.
Please visit our contact page for telephone, email and location details.
