When you’re exploring your weight loss surgery options, it’s good to understand what’s involved in each one
Getting ready for weight loss surgery
Getting ready to have weight loss surgery is an important part of the process and involves both physical and psychological preparation. Being well-prepared can help the surgery and recovery go more smoothly. Here are some key things to know.
What tests are done before bariatric surgery?
Your weight loss surgery expert will complete a thorough medical assessment to determine whether you are eligible for bariatric surgery. They will assess your body mass index, which involves measuring your height and weight. They may also measure your waist circumference, which provides another indication of your weight-related health risks. They will ask questions about your medical history, current health, and any underlying conditions that could affect the procedure. You might need to have additional tests (such as blood tests) if you have an existing health condition.
What to eat before bariatric surgery
Shrinking the liver before bariatric surgery helps to minimise the risk of complications. You might need to follow a specific diet before surgery to help this process. This involves following a low-calorie eating plan and may include meal replacement shakes. Some surgeons work closely with dietitians who can assist you.
You will usually need to fast for at least 12 hours before the operation. You can continue to take most medications until the day of surgery, although you’ll need to stop taking anything that can increase your risk of bleeding sooner. Your surgeon will give you detailed instructions about your medications and what to eat before the procedure.
Start making lifestyle changes
If you have developed obesity, weight loss surgery is not a quick fix – it's a tool to help you achieve better long-term health. It’s a good idea to start making healthy changes before surgery if you can, such as learning more about healthy eating and getting some physical activity. Smoking can increase your risk of complications, so it’s best to quit several weeks before surgery. Get support to quit if you need to.
Prepare yourself mentally and emotionally
Many people decide to have bariatric surgery because their weight is causing distress, such as self-consciousness and weight stigma. Some people can also find it challenging to adjust to the changes that occur after weight loss surgery. Your surgeon may advise you to have a psychological assessment to check that you are emotionally and mentally ready for weight loss surgery.
A good support network can help you get the best outcome after surgery. Let your family and friends know about your decision. Consider joining a support group to connect with others who can encourage you on your weight loss surgery journey. You might also want to avoid anyone who is negative or tries to sabotage your weight loss efforts.
How much weight will I lose?
The amount of weight lost after bariatric surgery varies from person to person and depends on several factors, including:
- the type of surgery – some bariatric procedures tend to result in more weight loss than others. Your surgeon can explain the pros and cons of different procedures to you.
- your starting weight – people who have a higher weight before surgery often lose more weight initially. However, the percentage of excess weight you lose is a more important measure.
- your commitment to making lifestyle changes – dedication to making and maintaining healthy changes gives you the best chance of losing excess weight and keeping it off.
- metabolic factors – changes to your metabolism and hormone function after weight loss surgery can influence your rate of weight loss.
On average, most people can expect to lose around 60% of their excess weight in the first 12 to 18 months after a sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass surgery. Excess weight refers to the weight above a healthy BMI. Your surgeon can give you personalised guidance about your expected weight loss.
What are the risks of weight loss surgery?
Weight loss surgery is considered to be safe, and the rate of serious complications is very low (about 1%). As with any surgical procedure, however, weight loss surgery carries some risks. These include:
- infection in the wound or abdominal cavity
- excessive bleeding during or after surgery
- leakage from the internal staples
- adverse reaction to the anaesthetic
- blood clots.
In the longer term, potential complications vary depending on which type of weight loss surgery you have. They can include:
- nutritional deficiencies – which can usually be avoided or managed if you take the recommended supplements
- dumping syndrome – in which food empties too rapidly from the stomach into the small bowel
- bowel obstruction
- gallstones
- hernias
- low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia)
- vomiting
- ulcers
- acid reflux
- the need to have a revision bariatric procedure.
Your surgical team consists of highly trained professionals who will do everything possible to minimise any risks. Your surgeon will discuss possible complications of surgery with you in more detail.
How long does it take to recover from bariatric surgery?
Most people stay in hospital for two nights after weight loss surgery and need about two weeks off work. You will generally be up and moving a few hours after your procedure. You can start light walking in a few days and gradually return to your usual activities over a few weeks.
What can I eat after surgery?
The way you eat after weight loss surgery will be very different to how you ate before. The post-surgical dietary changes you make are an essential part of achieving a successful outcome.
Firstly, your stomach will be much smaller after surgery, so you will only be able to eat small portions. Because weight loss surgery affects your body’s ability to absorb nutrients, most people need to take vitamin and mineral supplements for life.
You will follow a special diet plan after your procedure, which will vary depending on your surgeon. However, it usually involves starting on a liquid diet and gradually progressing to solid foods over several weeks. Your surgeon or dietitian will explain this to you.
It’s also important to stay well hydrated after weight loss surgery. Most people need to drink at least 1.5 litres of water per day, which is best achieved by sipping small amounts frequently.
To help reduce the risk of dumping syndrome (and regaining lost weight), it’s best to limit foods that are high in fat or sugar after surgery.
What should I take to the hospital?
It’s a good idea to pack the following things for your hospital stay.
- Comfortable clothes – choose loose-fitting clothes that you can put on and take off easily. And don’t forget a comfortable and supportive pair of shoes.
- Toiletries – bring along personal hygiene items like your toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush and deodorant.
- Entertainment – you’ll have some free time, so bring a book, magazine, or electronic device to keep you occupied.
- Identification, Medicare and insurance details – remember to bring your Medicare card, a form of identification, and your private health insurance details. You might want to bring a small amount of money for purchases like a newspaper, but it’s best to leave valuable items at home.
- Supportive family member or friend – having a trusted person by your side can be reassuring during your hospital stay. You’ll need someone to drive you home and give you some light assistance in the early days after your surgery.
If you have any other questions, your team of healthcare professionals are only too happy to answer them. Each one of them is committed to your success and will provide whatever help they can along the way.
We’re a Centre of Excellence
Norwest Private Hospital was evaluated based on rigorous and proven standards set by SRC. Accreditation requirements encompass physicians’ surgical expertise and experience, the standardisation of clinical pathways, consultative services, equipment and instruments, and patient education.
This accomplishment demonstrates Norwest Private Hospital’s commitment to delivering the highest standard of care and excellence to our patients.
Find out more about bariatric & weight loss surgery at Norwest Private Hospital
*Whilst effort is made to ensure that the information contained on this website is accurate and informative and it has been reviewed by a qualified medical practitioner, the information is general in nature, and it should not be used as a substitute for obtaining your own professional or medical advice. Any timeframes or quantitative data including but not limited to estimated timeframes for recovery following a procedure, time required for the procedure, timeframes for weight loss and/or estimated total weight loss are general in nature and your experience, outcomes and results may vary.
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