Obesity is not just a health risk, it can also increase the chances of developing diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and other conditions that may affect both your productivity and overall quality of life.

That’s why many people are turning to more effective long-term solutions to lose weight and improve their health, such as Bariatric Surgery. If you're living in Indonesia and considering this option, here’s what you need to know about this procedure, plus recommendations for trusted hospitals in Indonesia with proven success in performing bariatric surgeries.

Is This the Solution You’ve Been Looking For? Understand the Criteria First

As explained by Dr. dr. Errawan Wiradisuria, SpB.Subsp.BD(K), M.Kes, a Surgical Specialist Consultant for Digestive Surgery at Mayapada Hospital, South Jakarta and Kuningan, Bariatric Surgery is often recommended by doctors to overcome obesity and improve comorbidities. such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, gallstones, severe snoring, heart problems, shortness of breath, varicose veins, infertility, arthritis in the knees, to hormonal imbalance.

Bariatric Surgery can overcome these comorbidities and improve the body’s metabolism so that obesity complaints disappear and weight loss becomes a bonus for patients.

“Weight loss after Bariatric Surgery can occur rapidly within the first one to three months. However, the stomach can enlarge again by about 30 percent, if not balanced with exercise and a good diet,” said Dr. Errawan.

Before deciding whether someone is suitable for this procedure, the doctor will consider a number of medical indications that must be met.

“Bariatrics can only be followed by those who have a Body Mass Index (BMI) above 35. But it can also be done by those with a BMI of 30 who have comorbidities. For those who have a history of diabetes for 10 years and have not succeeded with medication, bariatric procedures can still be performed at a BMI of 27.5.” added Dr. Errawan.

How the Procedure Works: Explained by Experts

Prof. Dr. dr. Reno Rudiman, MSc, SpB-Subsp BD (K), FICS, FCSI, a Surgical Specialist Consultant for Digestive Surgery from Mayapada Hospital Bandung explained in simple terms how Bariatric Surgery is performed.

“This procedure is performed by changing the structure of the digestive tract which functions to limit food intake while influencing the hormones that regulate hunger and appetite. Surgery is performed using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques, with small incisions of 5, 11, or 12 millimeters, so that the recovery process is faster.”

In this process, about 65–70% of the stomach is removed, which significantly reduces its capacity and helps patients feel full faster.

“This method is generally used for patients with a BMI below 50. For those above that, doctors need to consider additional procedures to support weight loss,” said Dr. Reno.

However, bariatric surgery is not advised for patients with certain health conditions such as a history of cancer, heart disease, stroke, recent catheterization, severe bipolar disorder, or poor physical function, as they are not considered fit for the procedure.

Also read: Failed Every Diet Plan? This Medical Solution Might Finally Help You Lose Weight

What Happens After Surgery?
According to dr. Anita Hartono, Sp.B-KBD, a Surgical Specialist Consultant for Digestive Surgery from Mayapada Hospital Surabaya, the patient’s mental and psychological readiness is an important factor before undergoing bariatric surgery. She stated,

“This procedure brings major changes to eating patterns, which require long-term commitment. Therefore, if the patient is not mentally ready, bariatric procedures should be postponed until they are truly ready.” 

Patients must commit to a healthier lifestyle and work with a nutritionist to adjust their eating habits. Meals must be eaten in small portions but more frequently, with sufficient fluid intake.

“Patients need to avoid spicy, sour, and sweet foods, and focus on protein-rich meals such as eggs, chicken breast, and fish. They must also avoid carbonated drinks, alcohol, and smoking. Drinking through a straw is discouraged because the liquid intake becomes difficult to measure—posing a risk for the reduced stomach,” she added.

Regular exercise such as walking, swimming, or cycling is also recommended to help burn residual fat.

Preparing for Surgery: How to Know It’s Time and Where to Turn

Bariatric surgery might be the right solution for you in overcoming obesity, and improving comorbidities and metabolism. However, to be sure, you can consult with expert and experienced doctors such as Dr. Errawan, Dr. Reno, and Dr. Anita, as well as other doctors who practice at the Gastrohepatology Center Mayapada Hospital. 

Gastrohepatology Center is one of the leading services for handling digestive tract problems comprehensively starting from screening, diagnosis, and surgery with international protocol standards. Gastrohepatology Center services are available in all Mayapada Hospital units in Jakarta (Lebak Bulus and Kuningan), Tangerang, Bogor, Bandung, and Surabaya. Many expatriates prefer Mayapada Hospital because the team of expert doctors and staff at Mayapada Hospital are fluent in English, making it easier for expatriate patients to communicate during treatment.

Book an Appointment with Ease via the MyCare App

To get a comprehensive solution for digestive tract conditions, patients can have an examination and consult with a doctor at the Mayapada Hospital Gastrohepatology Center through Mayapada Hospital’s MyCare application. The app makes it easy for you to access various health services in all Mayapada Hospital units.

MyCare can also help you do healthy exercise by connecting to Google Fit and Health Access to calculate the number of steps, heart rate, number of calories burned, and body mass index (BMI). Also, there are many other health tips on MyCare in the Health Articles & Tips feature.

You can download MyCare app on the Google Play Store and App Store to get reward points for the first register which can be used as a discount on services.

Next: Golf Like a Pro, Without the Pain with These Doctor-Backed Tips

tags :