banner

Discuss your Options

People must be able to give fully informed consent to bariatric surgery, so it may be contraindicated if the person is unable to understand the nature of the intervention and the need to commit to postoperative care plans.

-NHMRC

What about public hospitals?

Public hospitals offer weight-loss surgery cheaper than private clinics. In fact, they are free. However, their waiting list typically takes years for bariatric surgery. That’s years that you could without those medical problems associated with your obesity, including depression and low self-esteem. Weight loss surgery is several times more common in the private system with good reason. And the cost? Australian patients are typically funded by private health insurance, they are self-funded, or supported by an agency such as the Department of Defence. When you book an appointment with our team you’ll soon have a chance to discuss your options with our team.

surgery

What will happen at my appointments?

Dr Ravi Rao, a “Surgeon of Excellence” in addition to providing a wide spectrum of world-class surgical treatment options

Prior to your consultation

  • A referral from a GP
  • Ask your GP, specialist or contact us for more information.
  • Alternative, a specialist referral (e,g, from a cardiologist, orthopedic specialist, obstetrician/gynecologist)

Initial consultation

Your bariatric surgeon will conduct a detailed history and physical examination at your first appointment.

Your surgeon will also discuss with you:

  • Your motivation
  • The causes of obesity
  • Why it’s not your fault
  • Your eating behaviour
  • Diet history
  • Whether diet or exercise will work
  • Your medical and family history
  • How weight-loss surgery works
  • Your best options, including the pros and cons of various procedures
  • The factors that contributed to your obesity or weight- related condition

Next appointment: surgical assessment

Bring any blood tests you have. If you don’t have, that’s okay: Dr. Ravi Rao will check your general health and identify any relevant medical issues you may not know about. Urinalysis and an electrocardiogram are also typically conducted and GI evaluation may also be requested. Your fitness and ‘biological age’ will also be assessed to ascertain your suitability for different procedures. Considering numerous factors, the rate of weight loss desired and the amount of weight you want to lose, Dr. Ravi Rao will recommend a procedure. We will ensure you understand all your options and have all the information and support you need to prepare for the procedure before you decide to go under the knife. If you decide on procedure, there is usually a 2-6 week wait before we can operate. Depending on your other health concerns, you may need clearances from other medical specialists, such as a cardiologists, respiratory specialist or endocrinologists who is treating you before the surgery goes ahead. You may also be referred to a peri-operative physician to optimise your overall health. You may need to book an additional appointment to go over medical specialist clearances with your surgical team

Next appointment: anaesthetists clearance

  • The anaesthetists will see you one week before the surgery to assess your fitness for the operation
  • If you don’t live near Perth, this appointment can be conducted by Skype (video conference)

Next appointment: bariatric surgery

We take over from here and conduct a tailored Gastric Sleeve , Lap Band or Gastric Bypass including Roux-en-Y (RNY) and Stomach Intestinal Pylorus Sparing Surgery (SIPS) surgery

Waiting for surgery

Dr Ravi Rao, a “Surgeon of Excellence” in addition to providing a wide spectrum of world-class surgical treatment options

What can I do to prepare for surgery?

Bariatric surgery is like any other major abdominal surgery. You can best prepare by knowing the benefits and risks of surgery, and by closely following your doctor’s instructions. Understand the surgical process and what to expect afterward. Keep in mind that you’ll never be able to eat the way you did before and that you’ll have to watch what and how you eat for the rest of your life.

  • Talk to people who have had bariatric surgery.
  • Write down your reasons for having bariatric surgery
  • Outline your plans to maintain your weight loss after surgery.
  • Start a journal. Record how you feel now, the challenges you face, and the things you hope to be able to do after bariatric surgery.
  • Practice the post-op diet, including the transition from an all-liquid diet, to pureed food, to a normal diet of smaller portions with 115 grams of protein.
  • Ask your family and friends for their support. Talk to them about why you want to have bariatric surgery. It helps to have people behind you, waiting to help

How can I deal with my fear of surgery?

The fear of surgery is not irrational or abnormal. In fact, it’s very common. Bariatric surgery creates a smaller stomach pouch and, depending on the procedure, may shorten the digestive tract – all while the patient is under general anaesthesia. If you have concerns, consider the following options

  • Share your concerns and fears with your surgeon.
  • Attend a support group and speak with patients who likely share the same fears.
  • Understand the complication rates and mortality rates of surgery.
  • Listen to bariatric surgery patients share their own fears and concerns.

And remember, you’ll have a team of healthcare professionals dedicated to your best possible outcome.

icon