

How to Choose the Right Bariatric Surgeon
Choosing to undergo weight loss surgery is a life-changing decision, and selecting the right bariatric surgeon is just as important as choosing the right procedure. With many surgeons offering weight loss surgery across the UK, knowing what to look for can help you feel confident in your choice.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to selecting the best bariatric surgeon for your journey.
Treatments We Offer
At Tonic Surgery we offer a wide variety of bariatric surgeries:
1. Verify Qualifications and Experience
- GMC Registration – Ensure the surgeon is registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) and is on the specialist register for general surgery.
- Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons (FRCS) – This professional qualification signifies a high level of surgical expertise.
- Experience in Bariatric Surgery – Look for a surgeon who has performed a significant number of procedures, such as gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and gastric banding.
- Training in Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery – Many bariatric surgeons have specialised training in upper GI surgery, ensuring expertise in managing complex cases.
2. Look for Membership in Professional Organisations
- British Obesity & Metabolic Surgery Society (BOMSS)
- Association of Upper Gastrointestinal Surgeons (AUGIS)
- International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO)
3. Assess Their Surgical Outcomes and Safety Record
- Expected weight loss results for each procedure
- Complication rates, including mortality and leak rates
- Steps taken to prevent complications and ensure safety
4. Consider the Aftercare Programme
- Nutritional guidance – A dietitian to help with meal planning and supplement requirements.
- Fitness support – Personal trainers to assist with post-surgery exercise plans.
- Medical follow-ups – Regular check-ins to monitor progress and address any concerns.
5. Ensure the Hospital or Clinic Meets High Standards
- CQC Accreditation – In the UK, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) regulates healthcare providers to ensure high standards.
- Specialist Bariatric Equipment – Hospitals should be equipped with larger beds, appropriate surgical tools, and trained staff to cater to bariatric patients.
- Emergency Support – Ensure your surgeon and clinic have robust emergency protocols in place.
6. Read Patient Reviews and Testimonials
- 5-star reviews on independent platforms
- Patient stories detailing their experience and results
- Before and after photos showcasing real transformations
7. Choose a Surgeon Who Makes You Feel Comfortable
- Clear communication – Your surgeon should explain procedures, risks, and expectations in a way that is easy to understand.
- A compassionate approach – Weight loss surgery is a personal journey, and you should feel heard and supported.
- A dedicated multi-disciplinary team (MDT) – Surgeons should work alongside dietitians, psychologists, and fitness experts to provide holistic care.



Hi I'm Simon Dexter
I'm a specialist in laparoscopic and oesophago-gastric surgery.
Mr Simon Dexter believes that patient safety and quality of life are key goals amidst the changing face of upper GI surgery. These goals are reflected in his teaching and clinical practice.
Mr Dexter has been involved in laparoscopic surgery since its inception in the UK in 1990 and was the UK’s first laparoscopic surgery research fellow. His advanced surgical training took him through Leeds General Infirmary, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, USA, and the National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo.
Mr Dexter specialises in laparoscopic and oesophago-gastric surgery, and he has a particular interest in laparoscopic obesity surgery, both primary and revisional. Mr Dexter has performed over 1,000 laparoscopic gastric bypass, gastric band, sleeve gastrectomy and duodenal switch procedures. He also regularly undertakes hernia repair and colonoscopy procedures.
He has taught and mentored consultant surgeons across the UK in these techniques and is on the training committee of BOMSS, with responsibility for development of training programmes for UK surgeons. Mr Dexter’s complication rate is one of the lowest in the country for bariatric surgery.
Hi I'm Sherif Awad
I'm a specialist in laparoscopic (keyhole), upper gastrointestinal and bariatric (weight loss) surgery.
Sherif Awad is Consultant Laparoscopic Obesity & Upper Gastrointestinal Surgeon. He qualified from the University of St Andrews (BMedSci) and University of Manchester (MBChB Hons), undertook his PhD at University of Nottingham and completed his surgical training in Manchester, the East-Midlands and London.
Sherif’s NHS post is based at Royal Derby Hospital, University Hospitals of Derby & Burton NHS Foundation Trust and has worked with Tonic for the past 10 years. Sherif holds/has held numerous high profile and leadership roles including Trustee of British Obesity & Metabolic Surgery Society (BOMSS, Nov 22-Present), Council Member & Professional Educational Lead on BOMSS (Sept 20 – June 24), Service Lead of East-Midlands Bariatric and Metabolic Institute (EMBMI) at Royal Derby Hospital (2016-2021) and Honorary Associate Professor at University of Nottingham (2014-2021). Sherif has a passion for teaching and runs the Royal College of Surgeons of England approved senior Bariatric Surgery Fellowship at EMBMI (which teaches senior trainees to become Consultant Bariatric Surgeons).
To date Sherif has performed over 6000 surgical procedures that include over 2500 bariatric surgery procedures. Sherif is passionate about the care he provides to patients and has over 700 5-star reviews from his private patients. His clinical outcomes, protocols, patient letters and information sheets are exemplary. Sherif is recognised internationally as an expert speaker on improving bariatric surgery pathways and safety.
Click here to watch an interview with a patient of Sherif Awad with a BMI of 90.
Hi I'm Mr Shamsi El-Hasani
Consultant Bariatric Surgeon
Mr El-Hasani has specialised for the past 32 years in upper gastrointestinal, gallbladder hernia and weight loss procedures.
For the last 32 years Mr El Hasani has mainly specialised in upper gastrointestinal, gall bladder, hernia and weight loss surgery. Mr El-Hasani has long and structured training in laparoscopic/keyhole approach to surgery.
Mr El-Hasani began Private Bariatric surgical services in the year 2000 and currently he is the Director for this service. So far, he has performed in excess of ;1600 laparoscopic gastric bands, 800 laparoscopic gastric bypass, 200 endoscopic insertion of gastric balloon. Also, he performs regularly laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and undertakes the management of revisional bariatric surgery.
Mr El-Hasani is closely involved in the surgical management of type 2 diabetes, and he has recent international publication in this field.
Start Your Weight Loss Journey with Tonic
Choosing the right bariatric surgeon is a crucial part of your weight loss journey. At Tonic Weight Loss Surgery, we are committed to providing the highest standards of care, ensuring you achieve the best possible outcomes.
Take the first step towards a healthier, happier future by booking a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our expert bariatric surgeons. Contact Tonic Weight Loss Surgery today to learn more about your options and start your transformation journey.
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