Services
Weight Loss Intervention Procedures
What is weight loss intervention?
Maintaining a healthy body weight is more than meeting the requirements of what appears to be the ideal physique. By ensuring you lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle, you ensure potential illnesses are kept at bay, including heart disease, diabetes, stroke, cancer and hypertension.
What types of weight loss solutions does Dr Viljoen provide?
Dr Viljoen, an experienced and accredited Bariatric Endoscopist, demonstrates great skill in performing the following weight loss interventional procedures at the Weight Loss Clinic
- Bariatric Endoscopy
is an entirely incision-less procedure because instead of making cuts in the body, an endoscope is passed through the mouth to gain entry to the stomach and small intestine.
Endoscopic bariatric therapy is often considered the first line of treatment for obesity. The procedure can be performed primarily or used as a second line of treatment after a surgical procedure. Most endoscopic procedures are carried out as day cases, meaning patients can return home on the day of the scheduled endoscopy.
Two types of weight-limiting endoscopic procedures exist (1) An intragastric balloon that may be inserted into the stomach and pumped with saline. (2) An endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty
These bariatric endoscopic procedures both aim to limit the amount of weight you put on without creating any incisions in the body. Instead, a light, bendable tube (endoscope) is passed orally to reach the stomach.
- Transoral Outlet Reduction (TORe)
is a procedure that prevents unexpected weight gain after a major operation like gastric bypass surgery. TORe minimises the opening between the small intestine and the gastric pouch by stitching up the area to help tighten it. As a result, TORe minimises the influx of food from the stomach, so you feel full throughout the day. Therefore, you will be tempted to consume less food.
FAQ
1Who is an ideal candidate for TORe?
People who put on weight after gastric bypass surgery are considered ideal candidates for TORe, particularly those with a BMI over 30.
2Do you have to prepare for TORe?
Dr Viljoen will perform a physical examination to ensure you meet all the requirements to qualify for the procedure. He first performs an endoscopic examination to visualise the area in great detail. Furthermore, he will provide preoperative instructions (e.g. when you will need to fast and what medications to discontinue) in order to help you prepare for the procedure.
3What can I do to lose abdominal fat?
Avoid fatty foods, and don't eat carbohydrates in excess. Dr Viljoen will also refer you to a dietician so they can draw up a meal plan in advance. In addition, always read your food labels and avoid consuming processed food.
