Bariatric Surgery in Hamburg

Bariatric surgery is a group of weight-loss surgeries that involves making changes to the digestive system, some of which are non-reversible. The idea behind these types of surgeries is to help patients lose weight by either limiting the amount of food they can consume/digest at any one time or reducing their body’s ability to absorb nutrients. Some procedures do both. 

Bariatric surgeries should only ever be the final option when diet and exercise have proved inadequate and there are now serious health concerns caused by a person's weight. In general, these surgeries can only be an option for patients whose body mass index (BMI) is 40 or higher (extreme obesity). In certain cases, patients whose BMI is 30 to 39.9 may qualify for certain types of bariatric surgery if they have serious weight-related problems, such as type 2 diabetes.

The three most common types of Bariatric Surgeries are as follows:

1. Gastric Sleeve – The most common surgery, in which about 80% of the stomach is irreversibly removed, resulting in a sleeve or tube-like structure. This smaller stomach will not be able to hold as much food and produces less of the hormone that regulates appetite (ghrelin), which can lessen the patient’s desire to eat. 
2. Gastric Bypass – A more complicated procedure in which the stomach is divided into two parts; a small upper pouch and a large lower ‘remnant’ pouch. The small intestine is rearranged to bypass the large pouch. As a result, the volume of the stomach is significantly reduced. This causes food to go into the small upper pouch of the stomach and then directly into the small intestine. The small upper pouch can only hold around an ounce of food. Gastric Bypass is typically not reversible. 
3. Gastric Band – Involves an inflatable silicone device that is fitted around the top portion of the stomach to create a smaller stomach pouch. This procedure causes the patient to feel fuller with less food but still allows the body to digest food as usual, without malabsorption. The device can be removed when the patient reaches their desired weight.

The bariatric surgeries mentioned above are typically performed laparoscopically, in which the surgeon creates around one to five small incisions in the abdomen to insert a laparoscope (a long narrow tube with a camera) and surgical tools. The patients are usually given a general anesthetic, so they will not feel anything throughout the surgery.

How Long Should I Stay in Hamburg?

After bariatric surgery, an overnight stay in the hospital is usually required. In some cases, you may need to stay longer (around 3 to 5 days). However, it is not advisable to leave Hamburg as soon as you are discharged from the hospital. Stay at least 10 to 14 days following your surgery for initial recovery and follow-up checkups. During the follow-up checkups, your surgeon will remove your stitches and check your overall condition.

What's the Expected Recovery Time?

The recovery time may take around 3 to 6 weeks until you are allowed to go back to your normal activities, including work, with some restrictions. You must avoid heavy work and strenuous activities, such as lifting, pushing, or carrying heavy loads for at least the first three months after surgery. You should also avoid sitting and standing without moving for long periods to avoid blood clots forming in your legs.

What Aftercare is Required?

You will be given a special diet plan immediately after your surgery, as well as detailed post-operative instructions. Make sure to follow the diet plan and instructions to avoid complications and speed up your recovery. In order to maximize and maintain weight loss, it is important that you commit to healthy eating and regular exercise. There may be restrictions on how much food you can consume. You may also need to change your eating habits, such as eating 6 small meals instead of 3 large meals each day. You should take vitamins and mineral supplements to ensure proper nutrition. 

What's the Success Rate?

The success rates vary for each of the different types of bariatric surgery. In general, within the first six months following the surgery, most patients lose around 30% to 55% of their excess weight. Then, as early as 12 months after surgery, most patients lose over 70% of their excess weight. Patients could also maintain a 50% to 60% loss of excess weight for 10 to 14 years after their bariatric surgery. Although the success rates are high, there are risks associated with bariatric surgery, such as bleeding, deep vein thrombosis, infections, spleen injury, stenosis, and infections.

Are there Alternatives?

There is a non-surgical Bariatric procedure, known as the Gastric Balloon. This involves an inflatable device that is temporarily inserted into the stomach via endoscopic placement. A sizable area of the stomach is obstructed by the balloon or balloons, thus reducing the amount of food it can contain at any one time, leading to eventual weight loss. The balloons are usually removed after 6 or 12 months. 

If you cannot or do not want to undergo any surgery or medical procedure, you may be able to work with a doctor who is experienced in treating extreme obesity and a dietician as the alternative. They may recommend you to change your diet, adding physical activity, and prescribe medications.

Bariatric Surgery in and around Hamburg

About Hamburg

Hamburg is the second-largest city in Germany. It is a port city and it is also the second-busiest port in Europe. Famous for its parks and canals, this eclectic city is filled with iconic architecture, delicious cuisines, music, and lively nightlife. Hamburg also enjoys an excellent reputation in the field of medical tourism. The hospitals in the city boast highly-trained specialists offering remarkable standards of medical care. From prevention and diagnosis to treatment and aftercare, medical tourists are sure to receive the best care. Numerous hospitals and clinics provide the highest standard of healthcare as well as world-class medical care around the clock. Cutting-edge hospitals, experienced specialists, and advanced techniques in line with the very latest scientific findings are the reason why its healthcare sector is thriving. 

Popular Parts of Hamburg

As a port city, much of the city’s character comes for its port, which is why the harbor tour is very popular. The harbor tour allows visitors to admire the city from a different perspective. Those who love art should visit Hamburger Kunsthalle, which is the city’s premier art gallery offering a wide collection of Germany’s master painters. Any visitor who loves shopping should go to Altona, an elegant neighborhood where visitors can find an array of stylish boutiques, amazing restaurants, and bars. Hamburg is also known as one of the nightlife capitals of Europe. The center of the city’s nightlife is located in St. Pauli, a neighborhood filled with live music venues, dance parties, pubs, and cocktail bars. 

Transport in Hamburg

Hamburg Airport is the international airport in Hamburg, which connects the city with numerous countries in Europe and the Middle East. Public transportation in Hamburg is efficient and convenient. Buses operate around the clock, including a special night bus (Nachtbus) service. The U-Bahn and S-Bahn trains are integrated, making it easy to get around the city. Visitors who want to get around with the U-Bahn and S-Bahn train can buy an individual ticket or an All-Day ticket, which is reasonably priced. Taxis are easily available and are reliable. 

Visas in Hamburg

Since Germany is part of the Schengen Area, citizens of several countries, such as Australia, Canada, and the US, can visit and stay in the country without a visa for up to 90 days. Citizens of other countries are required to apply and obtain a visa prior to their arrival. It is recommended to always check the requirements for the visa application before applying.

Weather in Hamburg

Summer, starting from June to August, has an average temperature of 24°C, making it a popular time to visit the city. However, the temperatures can rise to 30°C on some very hot days. Winter can be very cold, with the temperatures dropping below 0°C. The seasons of spring (March-May) and autumn (September – October) has pleasant weather with warm temperatures.

Additional Info

1. Local Currency: The local currency is the Euro (EUR). 1 EUR converts to approx. 1.12 USD.
2. Money & Payments: ATMs are widespread around the city. Credit cards are widely accepted and tipping is common.
3. Local Language: German is the official language. Most people, particularly in tourist areas, will speak little English.
4. Local Culture and Religion: The largest religion is Christianity and Islam is the second-largest religion. Judaism, Buddhism, and Hinduism are also freely-practiced.
5. Public Holidays: Some of the most celebrated public holidays are New Year’s Day, Day of German Unity, Reformation Day, and Christmas Day.