Medical Disclaimer

1. Not Medical Advice

Bariatric SurgeryHub ("we," "our," or "us") is an educational and informational resource only. Nothing on this website should be construed as:

• Medical advice
• Diagnosis of any medical condition
• Treatment recommendations
• A substitute for professional medical consultation
• An endorsement of any specific treatment, procedure, or surgeon
• A guarantee of specific outcomes or results

We are NOT:

• A medical practice or healthcare provider
• A referral service
• Your doctor or healthcare team
• Licensed to practice medicine
• Qualified to provide medical advice

2. No Doctor-Patient Relationship

Use of this website does NOT create a doctor-patient relationship between you and Bariatric SurgeryHub, our staff, or any healthcare provider listed on the Site.

Submitting a consultation request form, using our calculators, reading our content, or any other interaction with this Site does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship.

A doctor-patient relationship can only be established through direct, in-person consultation with a qualified healthcare provider.

3. Consult Qualified Healthcare Professionals

Before making any decisions about bariatric surgery or any medical treatment, you MUST:

• Consult with AHPRA-registered bariatric surgeons who can evaluate your individual medical history and circumstances
• Undergo comprehensive medical evaluation including physical examination and necessary tests
• Discuss risks and benefits specific to your health condition with qualified professionals
• Obtain multiple opinions if you have concerns or questions
• Involve your GP (General Practitioner) in your decision-making process
• Consult specialists (e.g., psychologists, dietitians, endocrinologists) as recommended

4. Individual Results Vary

Weight loss surgery outcomes vary significantly from person to person. Factors affecting results include:

• Individual medical history and health conditions
• Age, genetics, and metabolic factors
• Commitment to post-surgery lifestyle changes
• Adherence to dietary and exercise guidelines
• Presence of comorbidities (diabetes, sleep apnea, etc.)
• Psychological and emotional factors
• Quality of pre- and post-operative care

We cannot and do not guarantee:

• Specific weight loss amounts or percentages
• Resolution of health conditions or comorbidities
• Improved quality of life
• Absence of complications
• Long-term success or maintenance

5. Risks and Complications

All surgical procedures, including bariatric surgery, carry significant risks and potential complications. Risks may include but are not limited to:

Surgical Risks:

• Bleeding and blood clots
• Infection
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia
• Leaks from surgical connections
• Bowel obstruction or stricture
• Pulmonary or cardiac complications
• Death (rare but possible)

Long-term Risks:

• Nutritional deficiencies (vitamins, minerals, protein)
• Gallstones
• Dumping syndrome
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
• Hernias
• Ulcers
• Weight regain
• Need for revision surgery
• Excess loose skin
• Psychological or emotional challenges

These lists are NOT comprehensive. You must discuss ALL potential risks and complications with your surgeon before proceeding with any surgery.

6. Information Accuracy and Currency

While we make reasonable efforts to provide accurate and up-to-date information:

• Medical knowledge evolves: Procedures, guidelines, and best practices may change
• Information may be outdated: Content may not reflect the most current research or clinical standards
• Errors may occur: Despite our best efforts, information may contain inaccuracies or errors
• Generalizations apply: Content is general and may not apply to your specific situation

We do NOT warrant or guarantee:

• The accuracy, completeness, or currentness of any information
• That information is suitable for your particular circumstances
• That information reflects the latest medical research or guidelines

7. Cost Information

Cost estimates and ranges provided on this Site are approximate and for informational purposes only. We do NOT guarantee the accuracy of cost information.

Important cost considerations:

• Actual costs vary significantly based on individual circumstances
• Costs may not include all associated expenses (tests, follow-up care, complications)
• Private health insurance coverage and rebates vary by policy and provider
• Medicare rebates depend on eligibility criteria
• Additional costs may arise from complications or revision surgeries

You MUST obtain detailed cost estimates directly from surgeons, hospitals, and healthcare facilities. We are not responsible for any financial decisions made based on information from this Site.

8. Surgeon Information and Listings

Surgeon information on our Site is compiled from publicly available sources. While we verify AHPRA registration status:

• We do NOT verify: Credentials, experience, skill level, or training beyond AHPRA registration
• We do NOT evaluate: Surgical outcomes, complication rates, or patient satisfaction
• We do NOT endorse: Any specific surgeon or practice
• We are NOT responsible for: Surgeon actions, treatment quality, or patient outcomes

Inclusion in our directory does NOT constitute a recommendation or referral. You are solely responsible for:

• Researching and verifying surgeon credentials
• Checking AHPRA registration and any conditions or restrictions
• Asking about experience, training, and outcomes
• Obtaining multiple consultations and opinions
• Making informed decisions about your healthcare

9. Third-Party Information

Some information on this Site may be sourced from or reference third-party sources, including:

• Medical research studies and publications
• Government health resources (e.g., Medicare, AHPRA)
• Professional medical associations
• Hospital and clinic websites
• Patient reviews from third-party platforms

We do NOT control, verify, or assume responsibility for third-party content. Third-party information may be outdated, inaccurate, or not applicable to Australian healthcare standards.

10. Emergency Medical Situations

11. No Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law, Bariatric SurgeryHub and its directors, officers, employees, and agents shall NOT be liable for:

• Any reliance on information provided on this Site
• Any medical decisions or treatment outcomes
• Any health complications or adverse events
• Any interactions with surgeons or healthcare providers
• Any financial losses related to medical treatment
• Any errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in content

You use this Site and its information at your own risk.

12. Informed Consent

Before undergoing bariatric surgery, you must provide informed consent to your surgeon. Informed consent requires:

• Understanding: You fully understand the procedure, its risks, benefits, and alternatives
• Disclosure: Your surgeon has disclosed all material risks and complications
• Voluntariness: Your decision is made freely without coercion
• Capacity: You have the mental capacity to make medical decisions
• Questions answered: All your questions have been answered to your satisfaction

Do NOT rush into surgery. Take time to:

• Research thoroughly
• Ask questions
• Seek multiple opinions
• Consider alternatives
• Discuss with family and support systems

13. Psychological Considerations

Bariatric surgery is not just a physical procedure—it has significant psychological and emotional implications. You should:

• Undergo psychological evaluation before surgery (often required)
• Consider ongoing psychological support post-surgery
• Be prepared for lifestyle and relationship changes
• Understand that surgery is a tool, not a cure for underlying issues
• Recognize that some patients experience depression, anxiety, or other mental health challenges after surgery

If you experience mental health concerns, seek help from qualified mental health professionals.

14. Lifelong Commitment

Bariatric surgery requires lifelong commitment to:

• Dietary modifications and restrictions
• Vitamin and mineral supplementation
• Regular physical activity
• Ongoing medical monitoring and follow-up
• Behavior and lifestyle changes

Success depends on your dedication to these changes. Surgery alone is not sufficient for long-term success.

15. Regional Variations

Information on this Site pertains primarily to Australia. Healthcare practices, regulations, insurance coverage, and surgical standards may differ in other countries.

If you are located outside Australia, consult with healthcare professionals in your country and verify that information is applicable to your region.

16. Changes to Disclaimer

We may update this Medical Disclaimer at any time without prior notice. The "Last Updated" date at the top of this page indicates when changes were last made.

Your continued use of the Site after changes are posted constitutes acceptance of the updated disclaimer.

17. Contact Information

If you have questions about this Medical Disclaimer, please contact us: