Frequently Asked Questions
You’ll find answers to the most common questions you may have.
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- Bariatric Surgeon
- Gastric Bypass Surgery
- General Questions
- Skinny Jabs
- Weight Loss Injections
- Weight Loss Surgery
- Weight Loss Surgery Manchester
If you have decided to go ahead with surgery, following a consultation with Mr Li, you need to contact Claire Jenkinson, his personal assistant / secretary. She will be able to advise you of available the cost and available dates for surgery. Once you have decided on a surgery date Claire will book this with the hospital. The hospital will then be in contact with you to arrange your pre-op assessment appointments, admission date and time, and payment.
The primary objective of weight loss surgery is to facilitate substantial and lasting weight loss / fat loss for individuals experiencing obesity. This is accomplished by modifying the stomach size and digestive processes to assist in managing related health issues.
Once your surgery is booked, the hospital you have chosen or Mr Li’s clerk with will be in contact with you regarding invoicing and payment.
Some hospitals offer interest-free finance options and Claire can provide you with the details to enquire about this.
Prior to being discharged from hospital you will be provided with telephone numbers to use if you encounter a clinical or medical problem related to your surgery.
The general rule is to avoid driving 7 to 10 days following surgery. In some cases, this may be longer. You need to be able to wear your seat belt comfortably, be clear and coherent and be able to perform an emergency stop.
After all surgery, it is important to be up and about mobilising as soon as possible. This works towards preventing potential post-op complications, such as blood clots, chest infection, generalised stiffness and trapped wind. As soon as you feel steady on your feet, after your surgery, you should be mobilising around your room and then up and down the corridor. Walking within your capabilities following all surgeries is generally encouraged.
Caution needs to be taken when starting core exercises and weightlifting. It is best to discuss this with Mr Li or the nursing team at the time of pre-op.
Generally, a week to two weeks off work is recommended following keyhole / laparoscopic surgery. If your work involves manual labour / heavy lifting, this may be at least two weeks, after which it is beneficial to liaise with your manager / boss to ensure you are on light duties until you have fully recovered from your surgery.
Following abdominal laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery it is normal to experience abdominal pain / discomfort and / or trapped wind either in the left shoulder, middle of the upper back and / or across the top of your tummy.
Pain relief (as well as anti-sickness medication) is administered whilst you are under general anaesthetic to help with post-operative pain relief and to help encourage you to mobilise as soon as possible post-operatively. If you are in pain following your surgery it is important to advise the nursing team looking after you.
On discharge you will be provided with pain relief to take home. To help minimise pain following your surgery it is important to mobilise and avoid lying down for long periods during the day to prevent you from getting too stiff and sore. Sipping on peppermint tea, cordial or having some peppermint liquid can help ease trapped wind.
No. Mr Li closes your wounds using soluble sutures under the skin and surgical glue on top instead of dressings. You may bath or shower straightaway after surgery. You will be advised how to care for your surgical wounds by the nursing team, prior to your discharge from hospital.
Typically, following your surgery, Mr Li will see you on the ward and a review appointment will be arranged with Mr Li at 8 to 12 weeks post-op. If required this can be arranged sooner.
The most common types of bariatric surgery are gastric sleeve and gastric bypass surgery. Each procedure offers different benefits tailored to individual health needs and weight loss goals.
Gastric sleeve surgery or sleeve gastrectomy involves removing a substantial portion of the stomach, resulting in a smaller, sleeve-shaped stomach that limits food intake and influences hunger and metabolism hormones, thereby facilitating weight loss.
Bariatric surgery carries potential risks, which are the same for any surgery procedure, alongside long-term issues, including malnutrition, dumping syndrome, and bowel obstruction. It is crucial to weigh these risks carefully before proceeding with the surgery.
Individuals qualify for bariatric surgery if they have a BMI of 35 or higher, or a BMI at or above 30 with associated health conditions or those who have not been able to achieve long term weight loss through diet, exercise, medication or other weight loss methods / non-surgical obesity treatment.
How will I lose enough weight?
Early on, it is most beneficial to calculate your weight loss as a proportion or percentage of your “excess weight”, i.e. the extra weight that you carry above a BMI of 25. As you lose weight, your % excess weight loss (EWL) will increase. However, as we are all unique, your bariatric surgeon will discuss healthy weight loss expectations in line with a comprehensive assessment of your medical history and personal and professional demands.
Individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or those with a BMI between 35 and 40 who have obesity-related health conditions, typically qualify for gastric bypass surgery. This criterion ensures the procedure is aimed at those needing significant weight loss for health reasons.
You can expect a hospital stay of one to two days and a gradual return to normal activities over two to four weeks. Adhering to dietary guidelines and engaging in physical activity or an exercise program are essential for a successful recovery.
Gastric bypass surgery carries potential risks, including infections, anastomotic leaks, haemorrhage, deep vein thrombosis, and dumping syndrome. Ensuring proper postoperative care and monitoring, and knowing of your points of contact, is crucial to minimise these complications.
Gastric bypass surgery generally costs between £9,500 and £15,000 in the UK, influenced by the facility, location, or any patient-specific needs.
After gastric bypass surgery, comprehensive aftercare support should typically consist of regular follow-up appointments, counselling on nutritional and lifestyle habits, and management of health conditions. Engaging in a structured aftercare program significantly enhances the chances of long-term success and is critical in determining how much weight can be lost.
In Manchester, the most common weight loss options include gastric sleeve, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, mini gastric bypass and weight loss injections. Each offers unique benefits tailored to individual needs.
Mr Alan Li is a trusted bariatric surgeon in Manchester. He is recognised for his extensive experience and patient-centred approach, having performed over 6,000 bariatric surgeries. His dedication to expert care makes him the best choice for those seeking weight loss surgery.
Aftercare following weight loss surgery is essential for ensuring long-term success and health benefits. It provides necessary support in dietary management and counselling to help achieve and maintain weight loss. Engaging in comprehensive aftercare significantly increases the likelihood of achieving sustainable results.
Yes, effective non-surgical weight loss treatments are available, including options like weight loss injections, which can serve as viable alternatives to surgery.
To schedule a free consultation with Mr. Alan Li, visit https://www.alanlisurgery.com/contact/. You can choose between an in-person or remote appointment. This session will help you outline your weight loss goals and explore appropriate treatment options.
Skinny jabs are prescribed drugs in the form of a weight loss injections designed to suppress appetite, curb cravings, make patients feel fuller, and reduce calorie intake, aiding in weight loss. These injections can be effective for individuals living with obesity seeking to manage their weight.
Common side effects of the skinny jab include fatigue, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting, with more severe risks potentially affecting heart health. It’s essential to monitor any adverse reactions and consult a healthcare professional team if needed.
You can obtain the skinny jab legally by getting a prescription from a healthcare provider and purchasing them through licensed pharmacies, including online consultations.
The cost of skinny jab treatments typically ranges from £150 per week to £400 per month, varying based on medication, dosage, and supervision. Consider checking for package deals at clinics to potentially manage your expenses.
A weight loss programme is a structured plan designed to help patients, living with obesity, to lose weight. These programmes typically include dietary changes, increased physical activity, and behavioural modifications. The goal is to create a sustainable lifestyle change that promotes a long-term healthy body weight and lifestyle.
Weight loss injections are medications that help with weight loss by regulating appetite and metabolism. They are most effective when used with a healthy diet and exercise.
You are eligible for weight loss injections if your BMI is over 30, or over 27 with a weight-related health condition. Click Here to Check Your BMI Online.
Weight loss injections are an excellent option along side a supervised health programme for those seeking significant weight loss results.
The potential side effects usually involve issues like nausea, vomiting, bloating, and diarrhoea to more serious (albeit rare) complications such as gallbladder issues, kidney problems, and depression. It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional if you experience any concerning symptoms.
Weight loss injections vary in cost from £150 to £400 per month but with many providers not offering ongoing care or supervision. It’s essential to consider the need for a supervised specialist programme when considering such treatments. Click Here For a FREE Consultation.
The cost of bariatric surgery in the UK varies depending on the type of procedure and the clinic. For example, sleeve gastrectomy surgery typically costs from £9,500, while gastric bypass surgery costs from £10,500. Overall, surgery costs can range from £9,000 to £15,000.
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The cost of sleeve gastrectomy surgery in the UK is approximately £9,500 to £11,500. This figure may vary based on the specific clinic and any additional services offered.
Mr. Alan Li has performed over 6,000 bariatric operations.
Patients considering bariatric surgery to lose weight can access free consultations in person or remotely. This flexibility allows individuals to choose the option that best suits their needs.
After weight loss surgery, patients can expect a comprehensive two-year aftercare package that includes ongoing support and monitoring. This ensures a successful recovery and helps maintain long-term weight loss results.
The primary objective of bariatric surgery is to achieve significant and sustainable weight loss for individuals dealing with obesity and associated health complications. This procedure also aims to improve overall health and quality of life.