Overview

We are a centre of excellence in obesity management and weight-loss surgery.

We have been providing treatment and support for severe weight problems for more than 30 years. We aim to improve your health and quality of life.

Our team includes:

• consultants
• specialist dietitians
• specialist nurses
• a psychologist
• a psychiatrist

We offer group and individual consultations.

If you need surgery it will be done at one of our partner sites, including King's College Hospital.

We work closely with:

• local primary care organisations
• charities with an interest in obesity disorders
• patient groups

Case study, Ritchie's story

Ritchie Hooper from Leybourne in Kent had bariatric surgery.

Ritchie says: "At my heaviest I weighed 25.5 stone and had a 54 inch waist. Sometimes I wonder how I got in that position in the first place.

"In 2009, I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and eventually I was put on insulin.

"The criteria for surgery are strict so it's definitely not a temporary fix. You need to be in the right frame of mind before you go ahead with something so invasive.

"I get lots of support from my specialist bariatric dietitian, and I also attend the bariatric surgery support group which meets once a month.

"Since the surgery I've lost 9.5 stone, I'm down to a 36 inch waist and I have come off the insulin.

"Before I would always take the shortest route or get the bus. In the summer there was a rail strike. I decided to walk part of the way to work. I felt great and had the biggest smile on my face when I got there."

Support groups

We run a patient support group once a month. This is for patients who have had or are waiting for weight loss surgery.

The group is run by specialist dietitians and takes place online.

There is a short educational activity or talk. This is followed by a general discussion and questions.

It is a chance to:

• support each other between appointments
• share your experience
• make new friends

Please contact us for more information.

Our consultants

Barbara McGowan, lead for the centre for obesity

Piya Sen Gupta, consultant in diabetes and endocrinology

Francesco Rubino, chair of metabolic and bariatric surgery, King's College London

Ameet Patel, consultant surgeon, King's College Hospital

Spyros Panagiotopoulos, consultant surgeon, King's College Hospital

Sasindran Ramar, consultant surgeon, King's College Hospital

Research and clinical trials

Research is vital to improving the care that you receive when you're unwell. You can help improve healthcare by taking part in research studies at our Trust. During your appointment, ask your healthcare professional about research. They'll be happy to tell you about research studies you could be eligible to join.