Christchurch Weight Loss Surgery

A life-changing decision. I travelled from the North Island specifically to see Mr Flint, who came highly recommend, even though I could have had the surgery in the region I lived. The CWLS team, from the office staff, to the dietitians, to the hospital team, are all genuinely warm, welcoming and supportive. Trust is important with this type of surgery. I would not have personally contemplated travelling offshore for a gastric bypass. While I was able to pay for the full cost of the surgery upfront, I would have been prepared to take out a loan for a surgery that increases life expectancy. I really valued Mr Flint's approach to weightloss surgery. He appreciates that by the time people book a consultation for weightloss surgery, we are in general, fairly well informed of the risks and benefits of various weight loss approaches, including surgery. We probably don't need to have any more conversations along the lines of: "have you tried..." To me, weightloss surgery is still seen as a last resort, when it shouldn't necessarily be. I found Mr Flint to have a pragmatic approach to weightloss surgery. He's not patronising or judgemental, and he doesn't unreasonably gatekeep access to weightloss surgery at the lower end of the obesity spectrum. In particular, I appreciated that he let me opt for a bypass, even though my BMI was not at the level a bypass is typically targeted at. In less than 12 months post surgery, every single weight-related health concern I had, was and has remained 100% resolved. I have comfortably maintained my weight at the lower end of my BMI range, for two years now. One of the most underestimated changes for me, was the release of the constant mental burden and daily angst around my health and appearance. I can now reallocate that previously consumed 'bandwidth', to more productive things in life. I am also no longer the largest person in every room. In the pursuit of a smaller body, what I actually found, is a larger life. Another reflection I would add here, is that society presumes (stigmatises) those who are overweight as being undisciplined and unmotivated. Anyone who knows me personally or professionally, can tell you that I am the same relentlessly disciplined and motivated person today, as when I was bigger. Obesity is not a failing of character. Suffice to say, I have zero regrets about having weightloss surgery - worth every dollar. Special mention to Southern Cross, who were lightning-fast to approve a one-off lump sum contribution toward the cost of my surgery 🙌

Hi There, I would like to say a big thank you to all of your WONDERFUL CWLS team. The reception team was welcoming and helpful. They provided me with all the information I needed to plan for my health program. I had the pleasure to meet with Dr Richard Flint, very welcoming and easy to talk to. Dr Flint explained everything I needed to know about my health plan, which plan would be ideal for me and what to expect. I am very thankful and grateful that I found a very professional and helpful surgery clinic. if looking for a Weight Loss Surgery, I would strongly recommend to make contact with CWLS. Thank you all for a memorable and joyful experience! Ahmed Belrhachi