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Patient Information

We know that thinking about weight loss surgery can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together some answers to frequently asked questions.

If you’d like to talk about your specific situation, feel free to book an appointment with our team.

FAQs

How do I determine the most suitable bariatric operation for me?

Making the right choice is a significant decision that requires thoughtful consideration. Your well-being is our top priority, and we are here to provide support and guidance you. The best bariatric surgery option for you depends on various factors, including your individual health, weight loss objectives, medical history, and lifestyle. We offer the most comprehensive range of surgical options to ensure we find the perfect, personalised solution for your needs and goals.

The amount of weight you can anticipate losing after weight loss surgery depends on your initial weight and Body Mass Index (BMI) and the type of surgery you have had. While surgery cannot guarantee a return to a normal BMI, on average, patients typically shed between 60% to 80% of their excess body weight. Ultimately bariatric surgery is a tool for weight loss and a lifelong commitment to exercise and good lifestyle choices is required to achieve optimal results.

The pace of weight loss can differ from person to person, but for most individuals, significant weight loss is noticeable within the initial 6 to 12 months following the surgery. It’s important to understand that weight loss does not always progress in a consistent, straight-line fashion. It is entirely normal to encounter periods during which your weight seems to plateau for several days. These plateaus should not be a cause for concern, as continuous weight loss can be expected with consistent adherence to post-operative care and lifestyle adjustments.

Success following weight loss surgery encompasses more than just the amount of weight lost. It includes improvements in health conditions such as diabetes, sleep apnoea and high blood pressure. Additionally, it considers enhancements in quality of life, such as increased energy levels and improved daily functionality. Success is a holistic measure that combines these factors to assess the patient’s overall well-being and satisfaction with the procedure.

A pre-operative diet is an essential component of preparing for weight loss surgery. Consuming Optifast-based products for 2-3 weeks before the procedure serves several crucial purposes:

  • Metabolic Adjustment: The Optifast-based diet induces a state known as Ketosis. During Ketosis, your body switches from primarily using carbohydrates for energy to using stored fat. This is important because it reduces the fat content in your liver, this causes the liver to shrink, allowing for improved surgical access to the stomach which makes the procedure safer.
  • Liver Preparation: During the surgery the liver needs to be retracted out of the way. The reduction in fat stores in the liver, achieved through the pre-operative diet, also allows this to be done more safely, without liver damage or bleeding during surgery.
  • Weight Loss: Many patients may notice significant weight loss during this period, typically around 5-10% of their body weight. While this is encouraging, it’s important to understand that the Optifast diet is not sustainable for the long term. It is a temporary measure designed to optimise your body for the surgery.

The pre-operative Optifast diet is quite restrictive and carefully planned by our dietitian. During this period, you’ll be avoiding:

  • Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates are eliminated from your diet during this phase.
  • Sugars: All forms of sugars are restricted.
  • Fruits and Juices: Fruits and fruit juices are not permitted.

Our dietitian will provide you with clear directions and specific guidelines tailored to your individual needs.

In most cases, patients can continue taking their routine medications until the day of surgery. Our team will provide guidance on which medications to continue, and which ones may need to be temporarily adjusted or stopped before surgery.

Some medications, particularly blood thinners and anti-platelet agents, may need to be stopped 2-10 days before surgery, depending on the specific medication and your medical history. Our team will provide personalised instructions regarding your medications.

Fish oil supplements should be avoided within 14 days of surgery. This precaution is taken to minimise the risk of complications during and after the surgical procedure.

After bariatric surgery, you will have small keyhole incisions that are closed with dissolving stitches placed under the skin. Additionally, tissue glue or steristrips are used in combination with waterproof dressings to ensure the incisions heal properly. Here’s what to expect:

  • Bathing and Showering: You can bathe or shower with these dressings in place. Afterward, make sure to pat the area dry; avoid spa pools and baths during the first 7-10 days of the healing process.
  • Dressing Removal: Typically, dressings are removed 5-7 days after surgery, and by then, the incisions should have healed well.

Most patients experience a significant reduction in post-operative discomfort by the time they are discharged from the hospital. However, some may still require a small amount of oral medication to manage ongoing discomfort for about a week. Our team will ensure you have an appropriate pain relief schedule before leaving the hospital.

It is essential to avoid anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen, voltaren, and neurofen after surgery on the stomach. These medications can lead to stomach inflammation, severe gastric ulcers or perforation of the gastric join, which can be dangerous and painful. This restriction is lifelong.

Yes, routine medications can be recommenced as directed by your medical team in the post-operative phase. This includes medications for chronic conditions or other health concerns.

All diabetic medications are stopped initially after surgery. However, your medical team will provide guidance on managing your diabetes post-operatively. Additionally, you will be asked to take a PPI (Proton Pump Inhibitor) such as omeprazole for at least one year after surgery to reduce stomach acid production and prevent stomach ulcers.

Some medications may need to be in liquid or crushed form for the first 2 weeks after surgery. Your medical team will provide specific instructions on how to take these medications during this period.

Certainly! After surgery, your dietary choices will play a crucial role in your long-term success. Here’s a general guideline for the post-operative diet, but all patients will consult with our Dietitian for a personalised plan:

  • Weeks 1 – 2 (Liquid Nourishment): During the initial weeks, your diet will consist of liquid nourishment.
  • Weeks 3 – 4 (Pureed Food): You will gradually transition to pureed foods during this phase.
  • Week 4+ (Soft Solid Diet): After the first month, you can commence a soft solid diet.

Remember that these are general guidelines, and individual dietary recommendations may vary based on your specific needs and progress. Our Dietitian will provide you with a comprehensive plan tailored to your situation.

We recommend abstaining from alcohol consumption for the first 6 months following weight loss surgery. After this initial period, you may consider occasional, moderate alcohol intake for special occasions. However, it’s essential to exercise caution, as alcohol contains excess calories, can lead to dehydration, and might increase feelings of hunger. Additionally, post-surgery, your body’s response to alcohol may change, and your blood alcohol levels may be more elevated. As a precaution, we recommend refraining from driving after even a single standard drink.

Some hair loss / thinning is a common post-operative occurrence and varies in degree among individuals. Maintaining adequate protein intake is important to prevent or reduce hair loss. Rest assured that hair loss is typically temporary, and your hair will gradually recover.

The presence of excess skin post-surgery can vary from person to person. This can be mitigated by regular exercise and ensuring adequate high quality protein in your diet. As a general guideline, it’s advisable to wait at least 2 years after your surgery to assess the extent of excess skin. If you wish to address specific areas, a referral can be made to a plastic surgeon for consultation and potential improvement.

You can begin light exercise immediately after weight loss surgery. Initially, short, gentle walks are recommended while you are still in the hospital. It’s important to start slowly and pay attention to your body’s signals. If you engage in weightlifting or sports, it’s advisable to stick to “low-impact” activities for the first 4-6 weeks to ensure a gradual and safe return to your exercise regimen.

We recommend waiting 12months after surgery before considering pregnancy. Weight loss surgery can significantly increase fertility, even with moderate weight loss. It’s essential to be aware that birth control pills may not be as effective during periods of rapid weight change. Therefore, it’s recommended to use an IUD or rely on condoms and spermicide for all intercourse to ensure effective contraception. Menstrual periods can become irregular, increasing the risk of unexpected pregnancy. If pregnancy occurs during this waiting period, please inform us and your GP promptly as specialised care may be needed.

The risk of death from obesity and its related comorbidities is far greater. Weight loss surgery is considered safe and reduces the risk of death associated with obesity. In fact, weight loss surgery is often safer than common procedures such as gallbladder removal or knee replacement.

Yes, after surgery, you will need to take a multivitamin for life. Additionally, depending on the type of operation you may require higher doses of specific vitamins and minerals, especially Iron, Calcium, and Vitamin D. Regular lab checks and ongoing nutritional monitoring are essential to ensure your long-term health and well-being.

It’s not ideal to consume coffee after bariatric surgery for the following reasons.

  • It makes dehydration more likely: Caffeine is a diuretic that causes your body to lose water through urination. Since bariatric patients must drink plenty of water, ingesting too much caffeine can lead to dehydration.
  • It makes you more like to have gastric reflux: Caffeine increases gastric acids, which can lead to problems with gastric reflux.
  • It affects your body’s ability to absorb several nutrients: It reduces your body’s ability to absorb calcium and iron.
  • It can suppress your appetite: Caffeine can act as an appetite suppressant. Although this may sound like a good thing, it could make it more difficult for you to reach your protein goals.

Several avenues exist to help with funding your weight loss surgery. Certain health insurers may provide coverage for a portion of the surgical costs. Additionally, financial options such as using KiwiSaver may be available for some people. We are here to support you and can provide documentation if required.