Weight Loss Surgery: Not Always for Now, But Often for the Future By Dr.Sreedhra V Setty

Dr.Sreedhra V Setty, Surgical Gastroenterologist & Robotic Surgeon, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road

When we're young, the idea of weight loss surgery can feel far away—something we associate with “other people” or much later in life. After all, with youth on our side, most of us believe that a little exercise and healthy eating can fix anything. And sometimes, that’s true.

But what if those methods stop working? What if the weight becomes stubborn and starts affecting your health, mobility, sleep, and confidence?

That’s when weight loss surgery shifts from being a distant idea to a real, life-changing solution.

The Two Things We Look at Before Recommending Surgery

In our clinical practice, we don’t jump to surgery as a first step. We carefully evaluate two key factors:

1. Your Ideal Weight vs. Actual Weight

If you're carrying 30 kilograms or more over your ideal body weight, non-surgical methods usually don’t give lasting results. That’s when we begin to consider bariatric surgery as a meaningful option.

2. Your BMI (Body Mass Index)

For the Indian population, we follow specific BMI guidelines:

• BMI over 27.5 with conditions like diabetes, high BP, sleep apnea, joint pain, etc.
• Or, a BMI above 32.5, even without those health conditions

These indicators tell us that your body needs more help—and surgery may be the most effective and sustainable choice.

But Is Surgery Really Safe?

Absolutely. Bariatric surgery today is:

• Minimally invasive
• Low risk
• Often a daycare procedure, with patients going home the next day

And guess what?
Most people are back on their feet and independent by Day 2. It’s that smooth!

It’s Not Just About Weight—It’s About Your Health

Obesity is not just a number on the scale. It silently adds pressure to your:

• Heart
• Joints
• Lungs
• Liver

It can even cause fatty liver disease, which, if left unchecked, can lead to serious complications.

This is why we call it morbid obesity—because it brings along health risks that can reduce your quality of life. The good news? Weight loss surgery can reverse much of that.

Long-Term, Real Results

Unlike crash diets or short-term fads, bariatric surgery gives long-lasting results—when combined with proper follow-up and lifestyle changes.

Post-surgery, patients feel:

• Lighter
• More energetic
• Motivated to stay on track

We provide close support for the first 2–3 months, then slowly reduce follow-ups to once every 3 to 6 months. Over time, our patients build a new rhythm—a healthy lifestyle that sticks.

So... Is It Time to Think About It?

Maybe not today.
But maybe soon.

If you’re struggling with weight despite your best efforts, and your health is beginning to pay the price, don’t brush it off.

Weight loss surgery isn’t a shortcut—it’s a structured, scientific way to take your health back.

And sometimes, the best time to make a change… is before it becomes urgent.

Have questions about whether bariatric surgery is right for you?
Book a consultation with Dr. Dr.Sreedhra V Setty Surgical Gastroenterologist & Robotic Surgeon at Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road—and get answers, not assumptions.