Bariatric (weight loss) surgery

Bariatric surgery, also known as weight loss surgery, includes a range of surgical procedures designed to help people living with obesity achieve significant and sustained weight loss. It works by reducing the size of the stomach and, in some procedures, altering the digestive system to help reduce food intake and improve obesity-related health conditions.

Bariatric surgery may be an option for people living with obesity who have been unable to achieve long-term weight loss through diet, exercise and other treatments alone. Every patient is individually assessed by our multidisciplinary team to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

The most appropriate procedure depends on your individual circumstances, health and weight loss goals. Your consultant will discuss the available treatment options and recommend the procedure that is most suitable for you.

All private health insurance providers cover bariatric surgery where specific clinical and policy criteria are met. Eligibility varies depending on your insurer and policy. Our team can provide guidance on the referral and assessment process and the information your insurer may require.

A referral through your GP or another specialist is necessary for private health insurance coverage. 

If using private health insurance, you should seek a referral through your GP or another specialist. Your GP or specialist can arrange a consultation or learn more about bariatric surgery at Bon Secours Hospital Cork by contacting our team on 021 494 1144 or [email protected].

Your assessment includes a review of your medical history, weight loss history, overall health and treatment goals. 

The initial consultation is informal and does not mean you have already committed to undergoing bariatric surgery. 

Once you decide to proceed and depending on your individual needs, you will also meet members of the multidisciplinary team. Specialist nurses, doctors, physiotherapists, dietitians and more will support you throughout your weight loss journey.

Patients are supported by a multidisciplinary team which may include your consultant, specialist nurses, dietitians, psychologists, endocrinologists, cardiologists, respiratory physicians and physiotherapists, depending on your individual needs.

Weight loss varies from person to person and depends on several factors, including the procedure performed and your ongoing commitment to lifestyle changes and follow-up care. Your consultant will discuss expected outcomes during your assessment.

Recovery varies depending on the procedure performed and your individual circumstances. Your care team will provide detailed guidance before surgery and support you throughout your recovery.

Long-term follow-up is an important part of successful bariatric surgery. Patients receive ongoing support and guidance from the multidisciplinary team following their procedure.

Yes. Bariatric surgery requires lifelong dietary and lifestyle changes. Our multidisciplinary team, including specialist dietitians, will support you before and after surgery to help you achieve the best possible outcomes.

As with any surgical procedure, bariatric surgery carries risks. Your consultant will discuss the benefits, potential risks and any possible complications with you during your consultation to help you make an informed decision.

Robotic weight loss surgery is performed using the da Vinci Robotic Surgery System, a surgical assistance tool that provides computer-guided, magnified, 3D visualisation to the surgeon during procedures.

Robotic or robotic-assisted surgery allows for more precision and less invasive treatment than traditional bariatric surgery.

For many patients, bariatric surgery can lead to improvements in obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and sleep apnoea, alongside significant weight loss.

Weight loss medications and bariatric surgery both have an important role in obesity treatment. The most appropriate treatment depends on your individual health, medical history and treatment goals. Your consultant will discuss the options available and recommend the most appropriate approach for you.

Preparation is an important part of your bariatric surgery journey. Before surgery, you will undergo a comprehensive assessment and receive guidance from the multidisciplinary team to help you prepare for your procedure and the lifestyle changes that follow.

Every patient is assessed individually by our multidisciplinary team. If bariatric surgery is not the most appropriate treatment option, your consultant will discuss alternative approaches and help guide you towards the care that best meets your needs.