Who qualifies for weight loss surgery?

Weight loss surgery is typically suitable for patients with a BMI of 40 or higher, or BMI 35+ with serious obesity-related health conditions (like diabetes or hypertension). Nairobi Bariatric Centre generally considers female patients with BMI above 35, male patients above 34, or anyone with BMI over 30 with obesity-related diabetes as candidates. Every case is evaluated individually, so it's best to schedule a consultation to confirm if you qualify.

How much weight can I lose after gastric bypass surgery?

Most patients lose around 60–80% of their excess body weight within 12 to 18 months after gastric bypass surgery. For example, if you are 50 kg overweight, you could lose approximately 30–40 kg. Individual results vary, but gastric bypass generally leads to significant long-term weight loss when combined with healthy lifestyle changes.

What are the risks or complications of gastric bypass?

Gastric bypass is very safe when performed by experienced surgeons, but like any major surgery it carries some risks. Possible complications include bleeding, infection, blood clots, or leaks at the surgical connections (which are rare). Longer-term effects can include nutritional deficiencies (requiring vitamin supplements), dumping syndrome (discomfort after eating sugary foods), or stomach pouch stretching. Our team takes extensive precautions to minimise risks and will fully inform you before surgery.

What if my BMI is too low for bariatric surgery?

If your BMI is below the usual cut-off for surgery (typically under 30), you may not qualify for gastric bypass. Instead, we can offer non-surgical weight loss options. These include our Psychological Correction of Eating Habits programme to address diet and lifestyle, or a gastric balloon procedure – a temporary device placed in your stomach to help you feel full. These alternatives can help you lose weight safely if surgery isn't indicated.

Can I get surgery if my BMI is extremely high (over 50)?

Yes. Patients with very high BMIs can benefit greatly from surgery. In some cases, we might ask you to lose a bit of weight first (through a special diet or gastric balloon) to reduce surgical risk. Our surgeons have experience operating on patients with BMI 50+ – we just ensure extra precautions and pre-operative preparation to make the procedure as safe as possible.

Why do I need a gastroscopy before gastric bypass?

A pre-surgery gastroscopy (endoscopy) is done to check your stomach for any issues like hiatal hernia, ulcers, or infections. If we find a problem, we can treat or even fix it during your gastric bypass. For example, a hiatal hernia can be repaired at the same time as your bypass surgery. The endoscopy ensures there are no surprises and helps us plan a safer surgery.

Should I consult my regular doctor before bariatric surgery?

It's a good idea to involve your primary care physician or specialist before surgery. They can provide medical clearance, share your health records, and optimise any conditions (like blood pressure or blood sugar) before your gastric bypass. They will also be involved in your follow-up care after surgery, helping manage any medication adjustments as you lose weight.

How can I pay for gastric bypass surgery in Kenya?

At Nairobi Bariatric Centre, the gastric bypass package (around KSh 829,000) can be secured with a booking deposit. The remaining balance is paid by the surgery date. We accept bank transfers (RTGS), cheques, MPESA, or cash. (We do not accept credit card payments currently.) If you have insurance coverage for bariatric surgery, we can provide documentation to help with your claim.