05/06/2025
What to know before bariatric surgery
“Surgery is a tool, not a cure,” Dr Ruan de Jongh, Specialist Surgeon (Bariatric) at Life Groenkloof Hospital, cautions. He explains that while bariatric surgery can help patients lose weight and improve their health, it is not a standalone solution. Patients will still need to change how they eat, how they think about food, and how they care for themselves. Lifestyle changes and ongoing support are crucial for long-term success. That’s why bariatric surgery involves a full team: a dietitian, psychologist, surgeon, and often a physician. The journey is also emotional. “Your mental well-being is just as important as your physical health,” Dr De Jongh notes. “We walk the journey with you from the first consult through to long-term follow-up.”
This is not cosmetic surgery
“This isn’t about how you look – it’s about how you live,” Dr De Jongh says. “It’s about being able to play with your kids, to go hiking, to live without the constant burden of health ailments. Bariatric surgery can be transformative, and it often paves the way to a healthier, more fulfilling life.”
If you are concerned about your health, speak to your doctor or call Life Groenkloof Hospital on 012 424 3600 or visit https://bit.ly/3PKFbcw. Our doctors can assist to make life better.
