Bariatric Surgery in Kuala Lumpur

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 Kuala Lumpur?

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 Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur

About Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is the capital city of Malaysia and often cited as the Food Capital of Asia. The city is modern on one hand and at the same time exhibits a rich cultural legacy.

Recognized globally, Kuala Lumpur is fast becoming a favored choice for medical tourism. Many individuals making the journey to this bustling metropolis can expect to conserve anywhere from 60% to 80% in medical expenses compared to the astronomical fees seen in the United States. The appeal doesn't end at affordable prices, the city's hospitals are reputed for their outstanding post-surgery care, ensuring patients feel comfortable and well-looked after. Supplementing the exemplary healthcare, these hospitals offer luxurious accommodation comparable to a five-star hotel suite, signaling a new standard for medical facilities worldwide.

Here is why Kuala Lumpur scores high in medical tourism.

• Extremely affordable and the quality of all treatments are of a high standard
• The Doctors are all certified and the teams are well trained
• Hospitals are world-class with the best amenities and modern surgical equipment
• Excellent post-operative care facilities to help with recuperating

Medical procedures including breast augmentation, varicose vein surgery, laser eye surgery, dental procedures, fertility treatments, oncology treatments and spinal surgeries are highly demanded in Kuala Lumpur. With state-of-the-art facilities, hospitals notably Pantai Hospital, HSC Medical Center, and Sikarin Hospital lead in providing these sought-after services.

Additionally, distinct local clinics situated in and around Kuala Lumpur, such as Dr. Cheong Plastic Surgery Clinic and KTOP Clinic, are particularly renowned in the field of breast augmentation. These institutions, aptly combining professionalism with empathy, embody the heightened standards of medical care in the city.

Popular areas in Kuala Lumpur

This city boasts a plethora of iconic attractions, spanning both naturally occurring wonders and impressive manmade structures:

• The Petronas: Hailed as the Twin Jewels of Kuala Lumpur, it is an 88-story twin tower. Thousands visit every day to walk over the sky bridge that connects the two towers to see the excellent bird’s eye view of the city. On a clear day, you can see as far as Indonesia.
• The Menara KL towers: This is the fifth tallest structure in the world today. Its observation deck is a hundred feet higher than the sky bridge that rests between the Petronas twin towers; What’s more, is that the ticket to the observation deck is completely free. Make sure that you reach there early because it has time slots to control the visiting number of people.
• China town: Is on Petaling Street and is surrounded by many very old historical shophouses and temples and is home to many local street food sellers. This 24-hour vibrant market township is the best place to shop if you love a bargain.
• The Batu Caves: is a limestone hill comprising three major caves and a number of smaller ones. The 100-year-old temple has idols and statues erected inside the main caves and around it. the temple is considered an important religious landmark by Hindus.
• The Open Aviary: Ever imagined an aviary where birds are not caged? That is the KL Open Aviary for you. Visitors are free to interact, feed, and even take photographs with the uncaged birds. It is one place you must not miss if you are a bird lover. There are more than 150 varieties to see and learn about.

Weather and Climate in Kuala Lumpur

In this city, residents and tourists alike encounter a tropical climate. Its persistent heat and humidity manifest in daily temperatures that typically fall between 29 and 35 degrees centigrade. Nighttime brings a touch of relative coolness, as temperatures drop to roughly 26 to 29 degrees centigrade.

While post-rain chills can occur, the city remains largely resilient to the monsoon winds coming from both the west and east. These sporadic showers pose minimal inconvenience as the city boasts well-structured covered walkways. A variety of indoor recreational complexes, inclusive of massive malls, guarantees an enjoyable pastime that doubles as shelter from the rain.

Getting around in Kuala Lumpur

The standard of public transportation within the city is second to none. A comprehensive network of buses and subway lines ensures swift and comfortable travel throughout the city, with affordable taxis providing an alternative for both longer and shorter journeys.

Showcasing their discipline, taxi drivers adhere meticulously to all road traffic rules and signs. For visiting tourists, the Hop-on-Hop-off service proves a favorite, offering a convenient tour that traverses the city, accompanied by an informative radio guide.

Tourist Visas in Kuala Lumpur

Citizens of 35 countries and the citizens of Commonwealth countries, including British protected citizens, Citizens from Ireland, Netherlands, Switzerland, San Marino, and Liechtenstein do not require a visa to enter Malaysia for up to 90 days.

Citizens of India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and other countries will need to obtain a visa in advance before entering Malaysia. Visas can be obtained online or at a Malaysian embassy or consulate.

Additional Information

1. Local Currency: The currency is the colorful Malaysian Ringgit. Further divided are cents or what the locals call as Sen. Coins are easy to handle. Ensure you carry enough local currency for the duration of your visit, as it is convenient to use shopping malls and local businesses. However, make sure to spend all the money you have exchanged before exiting the country because Malaysian Ringgit is not traded internationally.
2. Money and payments: All retail outlets, restaurants, and eateries accept Master and Visa cards. You will also find ATMs, placed conveniently at all of the major tourist and shopping locations around the city.
3. Local language: The Locals speak Malay and Arabic is also spoken widely. Nearly all of the population will understand and talk basic English.
4. Local culture and religion: A large number of the population follow Islam and the second most popular religion in the city is Buddhism, there is also a small percentage of Christians and Hindus in the city. The culture is tolerant, and the people are extremely warm and friendly towards each other.
5. Public holidays: The locals celebrate the Gregorian New Year, the Islamic New Year and the Chinese New Year. Apart from these, the other holidays include international May Day or worker’s day and the days connected with the Coronation of the Monarchy.