We completely understand that funding for surgery, particularly in the UK, can be phenomenal. For this reason, many of our patients who struggle to raise the required funds are happy to consider travelling to Belgium, where costs are significantly lower while maintaining an excellent standard of care and being just one hour from the UK.

This option has helped many patients move forward with treatment who may otherwise have felt surgery was out of reach.

I wanted to share with you a testimonial from a patient who, like many others, was unwilling to pay UK prices for weight loss surgery but was initially very reluctant to travel outside of the UK. Her main concern was the level of care and support she would receive abroad.

I hope her experience helps to provide some reassurance and insight, particularly around the quality of care, safety, and aftercare available.

 Laura’s Testimonial

I’m Laura, and I live in Stranraer, Scotland. Last year, I decided that after trying all sorts of diets and weight loss programs, I needed a more permanent solution to my weight. I started by looking into gastric sleeve surgery at many clinics and hospitals.

For me, it was not about finding the cheapest option, but about making the best choice for my health and wellbeing.

My husband and I spent several months carefully considering our options and speaking with different providers. During this time, we spoke directly with Chris, Senior Patient Advisor at the Specialist Weight Loss Company.

From our very first phone call, Chris answered all of my questions thoroughly and addressed every concern I had.

The consultation was never rushed, and there was absolutely no pressure at any stage. I knew very quickly that I had made the right choice, and I decided that Belgium was the best option for me.

I did not have to organise anything — Chris arranged everything for us, other than our flights. The pre-operative diet was sent electronically, and the whole process was seamless. The package included a concierge service, so we were collected from the airport and taken to the hotel. This allowed us to enjoy our first afternoon and evening sightseeing in the tiny, idyllic village of Ghent.

On the day of surgery, we were collected from the hotel and taken to the hospital. I stayed one night in hospital, while my companion was taken back to the hotel. On the day of discharge, Chris had collected all the medication I needed to continue my recovery back in the UK.

On the day of our travel back to the UK, we were transported to the airport.

Once back in the UK, the aftercare team remained in constant contact with me — that is when my weight loss journey truly began.

The care I received from start to finish was fantastic. The hospital was impeccably clean, with high-tech medical equipment. The staff were extremely helpful, and everyone spoke English, which made everything so much easier. I would have no hesitation in recommending this amazing company to anyone.

My weight loss has been incredible — I have gone from 95 kg down to 74 kg since the end of October. I can highly recommend the Specialist Weight Loss Company.

My experience in Ghent was professional, seamless, and truly life-changing.