1. What is Excess Body Weight Loss?

Excess Body Weight Loss (EWL) is a metric used to evaluate weight loss after bariatric surgery or weight loss interventions. It compares actual weight loss to the amount of excess weight (weight above ideal body weight).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the EWL formula:

Where:

• \( Initial\ Weight \) — Starting weight before intervention (kg)
• \( Current\ Weight \) — Current measured weight (kg)
• \( IBW \) — Ideal Body Weight for height (kg)

Explanation: The equation shows what percentage of excess weight has been lost relative to the patient's ideal body weight.

3. Importance of EWL Calculation

Details: EWL is a key metric in bariatric surgery outcomes, helping assess the effectiveness of weight loss interventions and compare results across different patients.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all weights in kilograms. Initial weight should be pre-intervention weight. IBW can be calculated using various formulas (like Devine formula) based on height.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is considered good EWL after bariatric surgery?
A: Generally, >50% EWL at 1 year is considered successful, with most procedures achieving 60-80% EWL.

Q2: How does EWL differ from total weight loss?
A: Total weight loss (%) compares to initial weight only, while EWL specifically measures loss of excess weight above IBW.

Q3: What are limitations of EWL?
A: Doesn't account for body composition changes, and depends on accurate IBW calculation which varies by formula.

Q4: How often should EWL be calculated?
A: Typically measured at 3, 6, 12 months post-intervention, then annually for monitoring.

Q5: Can EWL be over 100%?
A: Yes, if current weight falls below IBW, though this may indicate excessive weight loss.