Beginning Your Journey

Obesity is the condition of having excess body fat due to an imbalance between calorie intake and expenditure. It is caused by factors like genetics, lifestyle choices, and environmental influences. Obesity poses significant risks, including an increased likelihood of developing chronic diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular issues, certain cancers, and mental health disorders. Addressing obesity is crucial for improving overall health and well-being.

Are You A Candidate For Weight Loss Surgery?


Eligibility for Weight Loss Surgery is based on a clinical diagnosis of obesity. It is measured via a number of factors, primarily the calculation of Body Mass Index (BMI) using weight and height measurements.

Calculate your BMI here:

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Any person with BMI between 25 and 29.9 is termed overweight and any individual with BMI of 30 or more is classified as obese (see table below). Based on the BMI, obesity is divided into class I (yellow), II (orange) and III (red) and at risk of medical problems increases from classes I to III. A person with a BMI of 35 or above is eligible for weight loss surgery, however, it is necessary to consult a practitioner to discuss whether this surgical option is required.

Blue - Underweight

Green - Healthy

Yellow - Overweight

Red - Obese

Our Weight Loss Program

  • Your doctor will gather information about your weight history, lifestyle, and medical background. They will conduct a physical examination and request details about your medications. Diagnostic tests such as blood tests, endoscopy, and imaging may be necessary to prepare for your surgery.

    During your appointments, it's important to ask any questions or express doubts you may have.

    The final decision regarding surgery will be made in a subsequent appointment after reviewing your diagnostic results and medical history. Your surgeon will discuss the available treatment options, taking into account factors such as your BMI, associated medical conditions, and previous surgeries.

    Our staff will provide information on costs and logistics, ensuring you have the necessary details to make informed decisions about your health. If you have further questions, feel free to contact us.

  • Pre-Surgery Planning:

    Before weight loss surgery, you will undergo examinations to evaluate your health and determine if the procedure is suitable for you. This includes physical, baseline, and nutritional assessments, as well as potential psychological evaluations. Your surgeon will provide recommendations based on these assessments and diagnostic tests.

    Day Before Surgery:

    Before surgery, it's important to work with your doctor. Quit smoking at least six weeks prior to reduce risks. Discuss medication adjustments and potential blood replacement with your healthcare team. Ensure your home is prepared for post-surgery recovery, and arrange for assistance with daily tasks.

    Preparing for Procedure:

    If you are having a day procedure, have someone available to drive you home as you won't be able to drive for 24 hours. Follow instructions regarding eating, pain medication, and avoiding severe pain. Note that certain medications may affect your ability to drive.

    Pre-operative Diet:

    A strict pre-operative diet is necessary to shrink the liver and facilitate safe surgery. Your surgeon and dietitian will provide specific dietary guidelines based on your weight, medical history, and possibly diabetes management. Follow these instructions carefully.

    Remember to consult with your healthcare team for personalized advice and guidance throughout the pre-surgery process.

  • Click the link to learn about each bariatric surgical procedure in depth:

  • Recovery from bariatric surgery varies depending on the procedure performed. Typically, patients spend around 3 to 4 days in the hospital after weight loss surgery.

    After the surgery, you will start with a gradual transition to a fluid diet and will be encouraged to engage in light activity, such as walking, as soon as you feel comfortable. This will help speed up your recovery. It's normal to experience some pain and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication.

    Once you show progress, you will be discharged from the hospital as soon as it is deemed appropriate. You will receive a set of instructions to follow at home, which will support your continued recovery process.

  • Diet and Exercise:

    After weight loss surgery, you will start with sips of water and gradually progress to a free fluid diet. Your surgeon will monitor your progress and may perform an X-ray study to ensure proper healing and exclude any leaks. Over the next 4 to 6 weeks, you will gradually increase the texture and volume of your food based on guidance from a dietician.

    Exercise is important for maintaining weight loss after surgery. Start with walking as soon as possible, gradually increasing distance and time. After 4-6 weeks, you may be able to use exercise bikes for cardio-based workouts. Strength training should be avoided initially, and guidance on when to start will be provided.

    Medication:

    Specific instructions will be given regarding medications you need to take after surgery. Some medications may be prescribed for a few months, while others, like multi-vitamins, may be lifelong.

    Smoking cessation is advised to reduce the risk of ulcers. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) should be avoided as they can increase the risk of ulcers.

    Adjustments to regular medications for other conditions may be necessary. Consult your specialist or general practitioner for the correct doses.

    You will also be prescribed vitamin and mineral supplements to prevent nutritional deficiencies following surgery.

Weight Loss Surgery Procedure Comparison Table

Hours
Monday–Friday
9am–5pm

Contact
Phone: (03) 9078-2184

Fax: (03) 9018-4428

Email: reception@northwestsurgeons.com.au

Healthlink: northwts