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Best Bariatric & Weight-Loss Surgeons in Singapore: Editorial Directory by Sub-Specialty

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Best Bariatric & Weight-Loss Surgeons in Singapore: Editorial Directory by Sub-Specialty

A neutral, editorial directory of notable bariatric & weight-loss surgeons practising in Singapore, grouped by sub-specialty to help you find the right expertise. This is not a ranking and not a paid listing.

How we compiled this directory

We list established, currently-practising bariatric & weight-loss surgeons with a clear public professional footprint, chosen to cover the main areas of weight-loss and metabolic surgery care — not by who pays. Profiles are compiled from public sources and we omit ratings and prices, which we cannot independently verify. This is an independent editorial selection, not an advertisement — see our editorial policy. Always verify a doctor’s current registration on the SMC public register and choose based on your own needs, your GP’s referral and your insurance.

Sleeve gastrectomy & gastric bypass

Metabolic surgery for diabetes

  • A/Prof Asim Shabbir — Centre for Obesity Management and Surgery (COMS), National University Hospital (metabolic surgery for diabetes)

Revisional bariatric & upper-GI surgery

  • Dr Tan Chun Hai — Surgicare Upper GI, Bariatric & General Surgery Clinic (revisional bariatric & upper-gi surgery)

Endoscopic & non-surgical weight loss (gastric balloon, ESG)

Upper-GI & foregut surgery

General, hernia & bariatric surgery

How to choose

  • Check eligibility first — bariatric surgery is for people who meet BMI and health criteria after non-surgical measures; a surgeon will assess whether surgery, endoscopic procedures or medical weight loss fits you.
  • Match the surgeon to the procedure — a sleeve/bypass surgeon for core bariatric operations, a metabolic surgeon for diabetes, a revisional surgeon for redo procedures, an endoscopic specialist for non-surgical options, or an upper-GI surgeon for reflux and foregut problems.
  • Check registration on the SMC register and confirm fees; some bariatric surgery is MediSave-claimable if you meet medical criteria.
  • Costs — see our guides on bariatric surgery cost and weight-loss injections.

Looking for a clinic rather than a named doctor? See our shortlist of bariatric surgery clinics in Singapore.

Independent editorial directory — not a paid listing or ranking, and not medical advice. See our editorial policy and disclaimer.

Is bariatric surgery right for you?

Bariatric and metabolic surgery is considered for people who meet defined weight and health criteria after non-surgical measures have been tried. It is a major decision involving lifelong dietary and lifestyle changes, not a quick fix. A surgeon and a wider team will assess whether surgery, an endoscopic (non-surgical) procedure or a medical weight-loss programme is the most appropriate option for you.

What to look for when choosing a bariatric surgeon in Singapore

Confirm the surgeon is registered with the Singapore Medical Council and listed on the Register of Specialists in general surgery, with a recognised focus on upper-GI, bariatric or metabolic surgery.

  • Procedure fit — sleeve gastrectomy and bypass, metabolic surgery for diabetes, revisional surgery, or endoscopic options.
  • A multidisciplinary team — dietitian, psychologist and physician support before and after surgery.
  • Structured long-term follow-up, since results depend heavily on aftercare and nutrition.

Public versus private care

In the public system, a GP or polyclinic referral leads to subsidised assessment and surgery at the restructured hospitals, which run established bariatric programmes. Private practice can offer shorter waits and continuity with one surgeon. Either way, expect a thorough pre-surgery work-up rather than immediate booking.

Costs and financing

Bariatric surgery is not classed as cosmetic surgery. MediSave can be used towards eligible bariatric or metabolic surgery if you meet the Ministry of Health’s medical criteria, and MediShield Life or private insurance may cover part of approved inpatient and surgical costs depending on your case and policy. Procedures done purely for appearance, and some elective options, may not be claimable. Confirm your eligibility and limits with the clinic before proceeding.

Common questions

What are the eligibility criteria?

Eligibility is based on body mass index and obesity-related health conditions, after non-surgical measures. Your surgeon will assess whether you qualify.

Is the surgery reversible?

Some procedures can be revised, but most are intended to be permanent. Discuss the specific operation and its trade-offs with your surgeon.

Will I need to change how I eat afterwards?

Yes. Lasting results depend on permanent dietary changes, supplements and follow-up, supported by a dietitian and the surgical team.

Part of our Weight & metabolic health guides · Browse all health topics

Listed here, or want to be? If you are a doctor or clinic featured on this page and would like your entry corrected, updated or removed — or you would like to be added or featured — please reach out to us or use our contact form.

Frequently asked questions

Who is a candidate for bariatric surgery?

Bariatric surgery is generally for people with obesity who meet BMI and health criteria (in Asia, often a BMI of about 37.5, or 32.5 with conditions such as diabetes) after non-surgical measures have been tried. A surgeon will assess your suitability and discuss surgical, endoscopic and medical options.

Which bariatric surgeon should I see?

Match the surgeon to the procedure — a sleeve/bypass surgeon for core bariatric operations, a metabolic surgeon for diabetes-focused surgery, a revisional surgeon for redo procedures, an endoscopic specialist for non-surgical options such as gastric balloon or endoscopic sleeve, or an upper-GI surgeon for reflux and foregut conditions.

Is this a ranking of the best bariatric surgeons?

No. This is a neutral editorial directory grouped by area of focus, not a ranking and not a paid listing. We list established surgeons to help you find the right expertise, and encourage you to verify details and choose based on your own needs.

Is bariatric surgery claimable under MediSave or insurance?

Bariatric surgery may be MediSave-claimable and covered by Integrated Shield Plans if you meet the medical eligibility criteria; purely cosmetic weight-loss procedures are not. Confirm eligibility, limits and costs with the clinic and your insurer before proceeding.