ABOUT
Weight Loss Centre
Welcome to the Weight Loss Centre, your premier destination for bariatric endoscopy and transformative weight loss solutions. We understand that achieving and maintaining a healthy weight can be a challenging journey, and that’s why we offer you a comprehensive range of cutting-edge procedures and personalised care. With our expert team of highly trained medical professionals and state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to delivering exceptional results, we are committed to delivering exceptional results and are dedicated to helping you reclaim your health, confidence and vitality.
At the Weight Loss Centre, we specialise in bariatric endoscopy, a minimally invasive, non-surgical approach to weight loss that offers significant advantages over traditional surgical methods. Our team of experienced physicians, dieticians, psychologists and support staff work closely with you to develop a tailored treatment plan that suits your unique needs and goals. Whether you're looking to shed excess weight, improve overall health and/or address obesity-related conditions, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
What sets the Weight Loss Centre apart is our unwavering commitment to patient well-being. We understand that weight loss is not just about numbers on a scale; it’s about enhancing your quality of life and achieving sustainable results. Our Multidisciplinary approach combines innovative endoscopic procedures with comprehensive support services, including nutritional counselling, behavioural therapy and ongoing follow-up care. We believe that true success lies in treating the whole person, and we’re dedicated to empowering you with the tools and knowledge needed to maintain your weight loss long-term.
As you explore our website, you’ll find a wealth of information about our bariatric endoscopy procedures, success stories from satisfied patients, and resources to help you make informed decisions about your weight loss journey. Our team is readily available to answer any questions you may have and provide the guidance and support you need to take the first step towards a healthier, happier you.
We invite you to discover the transformative power of bariatric endoscopy at the Weight Loss Centre. Trust in our expertise, technology and compassionate care to help you achieve the weight loss results you desire. Start your journey today and unlock a brighter, healthier future.
Meet Dr Andrew Viljoen
Dr Andrew Viljoen is a General Surgeon who practices at Melomed Bellville. He completed his undergraduate Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in 2001 and his medical degree in 2006. Dr Viljoen began his career as a Surgical Registrar in 2010 and later worked in the Specialised Surgical Unit at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Hospital in 2015. In 2016, Dr Viljoen completed his training, was awarded a Frederick Luvuno Medal and earned the designation of Fellow of the College of Surgeons (FCS) from the College of Medicine of South Africa, which involved specialised training in Laparoscopic and General Surgery. In February 2017, he established a private practice where he works as a General Surgeon and Melomed Bellville Hospital and subsequently Netcare Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital.
Dr Viljoen's goal is to help people maintain their health, treat infections and diseases, and prevent cancer. He treats each case with exceptional care and attention, and his interests lie in bariatric endoscopy procedures as a weight loss solution for a patient struggling to lose weight. With extensive international training, Dr Viljoen ensures that his patients fully understand the procedures and feel comfortable in his care, answering any questions and addressing any concerns they may have.
Dr Andrew Viljoen achieved the following post graduate qualifications:
- FCS(SA)
- FCS(SA) Primary – Frederich Luvuno Medal
- Certificate of Fellowship in Bariatric Endoscopy
- ASGE (American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy) STAR Certificate program – Suturing
- DSTC Course
- Laparoscopic General Surgery Intensive course – IRCAD France
- Endovenous Laser Ablation (England) – Wessex Diagnostic
Intragastric Balloons
This is a procedure that involves the surgeon inserting a deflated balloon into the stomach through the mouth. After placement, the balloon is filled with a saline solution, leading to a decrease in the stomach's capacity to hold food.
Allurion
- Non surgical: Swallowed in a capsule form and then filled with fluid
- Procedure: Typically around 20minutes, no sedation, no endoscopy required
- Duration: Stays in stomach for 4 months before deflating and passing naturally
- Weight loss: Expect to lose an average of 10-15% of total body weight
Orbera
- Non-surgical: Inserted endoscopically under sedation
- Procedure: Typically around 20 mins. Balloon is inserted and filled with fluid during endoscopy.
- Duration: Stays in stomach for 6 to 12 months (depending on balloon chosen), and then removed endoscopically
- Weight loss: Expect to lose an average of 10-13% of total body weight
Spatz 3
- Non-surgical: Adjustable balloon, that allows for increasing or decreasing volume as needed
- Procedure: Typically around 20 mins. Balloon is Inserted endoscopically under sedation
- Duration: Stays in stomach for 12 months, and then removed endoscopically
- Weight loss: Expect to lose an average of 10-15% of total body weight
Endoscopic Suturing
This weight loss procedure is a minimally invasive procedure that utilises an endoscope to introduce sutures into the stomach, resulting in a tube-like structure that restricts the amount of food that can be ingested and slows down “gastric emptying”.
TORe
- Non-surgical: Endoscopic procedure performed via the mouth with endoscopy
- Purpose: For patients who have regained weight or have "Dumping Syndrome" after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery, due to stretching of the gastrojejunal anastomosis.
- Procedure: Endoscope with suturing device attached, is used to place stitches around the anastomosis outlet and reduce its size.
- Duration: Typically takes 30-60 minutes and is performed under general anaesthesia
- Recovery: Generally quick recovery, resuming normal activities in 2-3 days
- Weight loss: Expect to lose an average of 8 - 15 % of their total body weight
- Candidates: Patient who have had Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and are now experiencing weight gain, or Dumping Syndrome
ESG
- Non-surgical: Minimally Invasive, endoscopic procedure performed via the mouth
- Procedure: Under general anaesthesia, a flexible endoscope with a suturing device is used to create sutures in the stomach to reduce the size and volume
- Duration: The sutures are durable and providing long term results up to 3 years
- Recovery: post procedure, back to normal activities in 2-3 days
- Weight loss: Expect to lose an average of 15-20% of total body weight.
