Beyond Weight Loss: Why Bariatric Surgery Matters
For many patients, bariatric surgery is about far more than changing appearance—it’s about reclaiming health. Obesity is not simply “too much weight.” It is a chronic, complex disease linked to diabetes, heart disease, sleep apnea, infertility, and even certain cancers.
Traditional weight-loss methods like dieting and exercise can help, but for those with severe or long-standing obesity, the body often resists change. Bariatric surgery offers a proven solution—and thanks to robotic assistance, today it can be done with greater safety, accuracy, and comfort than ever before.
Why Robotic Assistance Makes a Difference
Robotic surgery is not about replacing the surgeon—it’s about giving surgeons the best possible tools. At CGHMC, the Da Vinci Xi robotic surgical system provides:
- A 3D, high-definition view of the surgical field magnified 10x.
- Instruments that move like a human hand but with more precision and no tremor.
- The ability to perform delicate suturing in tight spaces with less tissue trauma.
For bariatric patients who may have complex anatomy or prior surgeries, this precision can reduce risks and improve long-term outcomes.
The Types of Robotic Bariatric Procedures at CGHMC
- Sleeve Gastrectomy – Removing a portion of the stomach to decreases the hunger hormone, Ghrelin, so reduces hunger sensations.
- Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y) – the gold standard bariatric procedure that reduces the stomach size and directs food immediately to the lower intestine, this releases hormones that make you feel fuller and less hunger, and fewer calories are absorbed.
- Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS) – For select patients needing maximum metabolic change.
- Revisional Bariatric Surgery – Correcting or enhancing results from past surgeries.
Unlike generic weight-loss programs, these procedures fundamentally change how the body processes food, regulates appetite, recalibrating the body metabolism, helping patients achieve sustainable results.
The Patient Journey: What to Expect
1. Before Surgery
- Comprehensive evaluation: Patients undergo medical, nutritional, and psychological assessments.
- Pre-surgery lifestyle prep: Patients are guided to lose a small amount of weight to reduce surgical risks.
- Counseling sessions: To set expectations and prepare for long-term lifestyle changes.
2. During Surgery
- Small incisions are made for the robotic instruments.
- The surgeon controls the system from a console, ensuring precise movements.
- The procedure usually takes 2–4 hours, depending on the type of surgery.
3. After Surgery
- Hospital stay is often shorter than traditional methods—most patients go home in 1-2 days.
- Pain is usually less intense thanks to smaller incisions.
- A staged diet (liquid → soft → regular foods) helps the stomach heal safely.
- Follow-up visits ensure nutrition, vitamins, and recovery stay on track.
Benefits You Can Expect
- Better health outcomes – Many patients see diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea improve or resolve within days .
- Sustainable weight loss – Robotic precision ensures the stomach and intestines are reshaped effectively.
- Shorter downtime – Most patients resume normal activities faster.
- Improved quality of life – From mobility to confidence, the changes go beyond the scale.
Addressing the Stigma Around Bariatric Surgery
One reason patients delay surgery is fear of being judged. But it’s important to recognize:
- Obesity is not a personal failure—it is a medical condition.
- Bariatric surgery is not the “easy way out”—it is a medically proven tool to help jumpstart the lifestyle change and make it sustainable.
- With robotic assistance, the risks are lower, and the benefits often life-changing.
CGHMC provides not just surgery, but emotional and psychological support to help patients and families through this journey.
Why Choose CGHMC Robocare Surgical Center
- Track record of excellence – With hundreds of robotic surgeries performed annually, CGHMC is among the most experienced centers in the country.
- Whole-patient support – Nutritionists, psychologists, and support groups guide patients before and after surgery.
- Cutting-edge technology – The Dual Console Da Vinci Xi Robotic Surgical System ensures maximum precision.
- Caring specialists – Surgeons trained in robotic techniques lead procedures with a multidisciplinary care team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much weight will I lose?
It varies, but most patients lose 50–70% of their excess weight within 1–2 years.
Q: Is bariatric surgery safe?
Robotic assistance improves safety by reducing complications compared to open surgery.
Q: Will I need supplements after surgery?
Yes. Bariatric patients will need to take vitamins to prevent deficiencies.
Q: How soon can I return to work?
Many return to work in 2–4 weeks, depending on the type of job.
Taking the First Step
Robotic bariatric surgery is not just about losing weight—it’s about regaining life. At CGHMC Robocare Surgical Center, patients receive advanced surgical care combined with compassionate support, ensuring lasting change.
Book your bariatric robotic surgery consultation at CGHMC Robocare Surgical Center today. Call (02) 8711-4141 local 1108/1109 or email robocare@cghmc.com.ph
Watch a robotic bariatric surgery patient testimonial here: (link to patient testimonial)
