Weight Loss Surgery in Lagos
Obesity
The signs, what causes it, and when to see a weight loss surgery specialist in Lagos.
Signs to look for
Obesity
- A BMI of 30 or more, or a waist above about 94 cm in men and 80 cm in women
- Breathlessness on stairs or short walks
- Loud snoring, stopping breathing at night, or sleepiness in the day
- Knee, hip or back pain
- High blood sugar or blood pressure found at a check
Obesity means carrying enough excess body fat to harm health. It is usually measured by body mass index (BMI): weight in kilograms divided by height in metres squared. A BMI of 30 or more is obesity, and for people of Black African family background health risks begin at a lower BMI. Obesity raises the risk of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, sleep apnoea, painful joints, fertility problems and several cancers. Genes, hormones, sleep, stress, medicines and the food around us all play a part, which is why diet alone often does not hold. Treatment is a ladder: eating and activity first, then medicines, then a balloon or surgery for those who need more.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- A BMI of 30 or more, or a waist above about 94 cm in men and 80 cm in women
- Breathlessness on stairs or short walks
- Loud snoring, stopping breathing at night, or sleepiness in the day
- Knee, hip or back pain
- High blood sugar or blood pressure found at a check
- Irregular periods or difficulty getting pregnant
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if your weight is affecting your health, your sleep or your joints, or if you have tried to lose weight and it keeps coming back. Have your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol checked, because they often rise without symptoms.
Treatment options
- A plan for eating, activity and sleep, with a dietitian
- Weight loss injections such as semaglutide or tirzepatide, prescribed and reviewed by a doctor
- A gastric balloon, placed through the mouth and removed after six or twelve months
- Gastric sleeve surgery
- Gastric bypass surgery, especially with type 2 diabetes or acid reflux
What it costs on Mezo
Starting cash prices for the treatments used for this condition.
Common Questions
Is obesity just about eating less?
No. Hunger and fullness are controlled by hormones and the brain, and the body fights to regain lost weight. That is why medicines and surgery, which change those signals, work when willpower alone has not.
What BMI do I need for surgery?
Usually 40 or more, or 35 or more with a weight-related illness such as diabetes. For people of Black African family background the thresholds are lower, and a surgeon will advise.
Are herbal slimming teas safe?
Many contain laxatives or undeclared drugs, and none produce lasting weight loss. Speak to a doctor before taking any.
Need Help?
Find a verified weight loss surgery specialist near you.
Weight Loss Surgery in Lagos →Weight Loss Surgery in Abuja →Weight Loss Surgery in Port Harcourt →Weight Loss Surgery in Jos →Weight Loss Surgery in Ibadan →Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.