JAKARTA, OCTOBER 12, 2025 – EMC Alam Sutera Hospital has achieved a significant milestone in obesity management in Indonesia, successfully completing 1,000 bariatric procedures over the past 10 years. This achievement represents a historic milestone and a clear demonstration of the hospital's commitment to helping the community achieve a healthier quality of life.
Obesity in Indonesia is one of the most concerning public health issues. The causes of obesity are complex, but a sedentary lifestyle, high consumption of foods high in sugar and fat, and a lack of nutritional education are the dominant factors. Furthermore, genetic and social factors also contribute. Severe obesity, or morbid obesity, is a chronic condition that is difficult to manage with diet and exercise alone.
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When conservative methods fail, bariatric surgery is a clinically proven lifesaving option. EMC Alam Sutera Hospital recognizes the importance of comprehensively treating severe obesity, including through medical approaches such as bariatric surgery. The Bariatric & Digestive Center is one of EMC Alam Sutera Hospital's flagship services, serving patients with experienced subspecialists and experts in gastrointestinal surgery, including gastric bypass surgery, gallstone removal, and intestinal infections.
Bariatric surgery is a minimally invasive surgical procedure on the digestive system that aims to limit the amount of food the body can consume or absorb, resulting in weight loss. This procedure is considered effective in helping patients with morbid obesity achieve significant and sustainable weight loss and reduce the risk of comorbidities.
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Bariatric surgery can help patients achieve weight loss of up to 50-70% within 12-18 months after surgery. Dr. Handy Wing, Sp.B, Subsp.BD(K), FBMS, FICS, FInaCS, Surgeon - Subspecialist in Digestive Surgery, Consultant at EMC Alam Sutera Hospital, said, "Bariatric surgery is not just a cosmetic & aesthetic procedure, but a medical intervention that saves patients from the risk of serious complications such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and heart disease." He added, "This surgery is safe if performed by a multidisciplinary team and with thorough preparation.
Patients are also required to undergo lifestyle changes after surgery so that the results are long-lasting. Some types of bariatric surgery that are commonly performed include; Sleeve Gastrectomy (removing most of the stomach, reducing eating capacity), Gastric Bypass (redirecting the digestive tract to reduce calorie absorption), Gastric Banding (using silicone bands to limit food intake).
"After a patient has successfully lost significant weight, the next challenge is managing changes in body shape," explained Dr. Irena Sakura Rini, MARS, Sp.BP-RE (K), Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery Specialist at EMC Alam Sutera Hospital. "Through body contouring, we help patients regain their ideal body proportions and boost their self-confidence after their long journey against obesity."
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Today's Bariatric Gathering 2.0, themed "Introducing a New Self, Celebrating a Better Life," was attended by surgeons involved in bariatric programs and a community of successful bariatric patients. The event served as a platform for sharing experiences, health education, and appreciation for patients' success in their weight loss journey and post-surgery lifestyle. The event also featured a fashion show featuring Indonesian clothing, door prizes, and free mini medical check-ups for attendees.
"Successfully achieving 1,000 bariatric procedures isn't just a number, but a representation of 1,000 stories of patients' struggles and courage in transforming their lives," said Andy Halim, Head of Sales at EMC Alam Sutera Hospital. "We are proud to be a part of their journey toward healthier and more productive lives," he concluded.
In addition to celebrating this achievement, EMC Alam Sutera Hospital also affirmed its commitment to continue expanding access to bariatric services, strengthening public education about the dangers of obesity, and developing medical innovations so that more Indonesians can achieve a healthy and fit life.