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. 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.
What will happen at my appointments?
Prior to your consultation
Initial consultation
Your bariatric surgeon will conduct a detailed history and physical examination at your first appointment.
Your surgeon will also discuss:
Next appointment: surgical assessment
Bring any blood tests you have. If you don’t have, that’s okay: 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, 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: anaesthetist's clearance
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
What can I do to prepare for the 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.
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:
