Weight Loss Surgery: 100+ Questions Answered

$15,000-$25,000 total. With private health insurance: $5,000-$10,000 out-of-pocket. Medicare rebates $1,500-$2,000. Costs vary by city and surgeon - Sydney and Melbourne are typically highest, regional areas more affordable.

You qualify if: BMI ≥ 40, OR BMI 35-40 with obesity-related conditions (diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea), age 18-65, tried supervised weight loss for 6+ months, and no medical contraindications. Your surgeon will assess your individual eligibility.

Not required, but highly recommended. Your GP can refer you to a bariatric surgeon and help with insurance paperwork. Some insurers may require GP documentation of previous weight loss attempts for coverage.

Blood tests, ECG (heart test), chest X-ray, sleep study (if you have sleep apnea), psychological assessment, and dietitian consultation. Total cost for pre-op tests: $500-$1,000.

Private hospital: 2-6 weeks from booking. Public hospital: 12-24 months (varies by state). Most patients choose private to avoid long wait times.

Usually yes, as long as your condition is stable and managed. Your surgeon will consult with your psychiatrist. Untreated mental health conditions may need to be addressed first.

You must quit at least 6 weeks before surgery. Smoking increases complication risk by 300%. Nicotine testing may be required. Many surgeons won't operate on active smokers.

Most surgeons require a 2-week pre-op liquid diet (Optifast) to shrink your liver. Some may require weight loss beforehand if BMI is very high. This makes surgery safer and easier.

Usually yes, but your surgeon and GP will manage medication adjustments. You may need to stop blood thinners temporarily before surgery. Discuss all medications during consultation.

Gastric sleeve: BMI 35-45, no severe GERD, simpler recovery. Gastric bypass: BMI 45+, severe diabetes or GERD, maximum weight loss needed. Your surgeon will recommend based on your specific situation.

BMI 35 with health conditions, or BMI 40 without conditions. Some surgeons may consider BMI 30-35 for severe diabetes. Medicare rebates only apply to BMI 35+ with documentation.

In Australia, teens 14-17 can have surgery with parental consent, pediatric bariatric team evaluation, BMI ≥ 40 with complications, and must have finished puberty. Rare but possible for severe cases.

2-3 months typically: 2-4 weeks for pre-op tests, 1-4 weeks for insurance approval, 2-6 weeks wait for surgery date. Can be faster if self-funding.

No, but strongly recommended. Without insurance, you'll pay $15,000-$25,000 upfront. With insurance, out-of-pocket is $5,000-$10,000. Need 12-month waiting period for coverage.

Medical history review (15 mins), physical examination (10 mins), procedure discussion (20 mins), cost breakdown (10 mins). Total ~1 hour. Usually free, sometimes $200-$400 (refunded if you proceed).

Absolutely! Most patients consult with 2-3 surgeons before deciding. This helps compare costs, approaches, and find the best fit. No obligation to choose the first surgeon you meet.

Most Australian private insurers cover bariatric surgery with Gold level or higher hospital cover. 12-month waiting period applies. Out-of-pocket gap fees typically $5,000-$10,000. Check your policy details.

Yes, you may be able to access your super through compassionate grounds early release if you meet specific medical and financial criteria set by the ATO. Note: If you're under 60, tax may apply (up to 22% including Medicare levy). If you're 60+, withdrawals are generally tax-free. The ATO processes applications in up to 14 days (online) or 28 days (paper). <a href='/superannuation-guide' class='text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline font-medium'>Read our complete guide to superannuation early release →</a>

Completely normal! Discuss fears with your surgeon. Consider seeing a bariatric psychologist beforehand. Many patients say the fear was worse than the reality. Modern techniques are very safe with experienced surgeons.

Personal choice. Some tell everyone, others keep it private. You'll need support during recovery, so at least tell close family/friends. Your medical information is confidential - you don't owe anyone an explanation.

Gastric sleeve: 1-2 hours. Gastric bypass: 2-3 hours. All under general anesthesia. You'll be asleep and won't feel anything during the procedure.

Typically 4-5 small incisions (0.5-1.5cm each). It's laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery. Incisions are small and hidden, usually fade significantly within 12 months.

Yes, 4-5 small scars. They fade significantly within 12 months. Use sunscreen on scars for first year. Most patients find scars barely noticeable and worth the trade-off.

Your surgeon is prepared for complications. Hospital has emergency protocols. Serious complications are rare (<1%) but include bleeding (1-2%), staple line leak (0.5-1%), need for conversion to open surgery (<1%).

Gastric sleeve: No, it's permanent. Removed stomach tissue is discarded. Gastric band: Yes, reversible. Gastric bypass: Technically reversible but rarely done. Consider this a permanent decision.

It's discarded as medical waste. Cannot be reattached. The remaining stomach (sleeve) produces less hunger hormone, which helps with appetite control long-term.

Completely different! Liposuction removes fat from under skin (cosmetic). Gastric sleeve reduces stomach size to treat obesity as a disease (medical). Surgery changes hormones and metabolism, not just appearance.

Usually no. Some surgeons place a small drain temporarily (removed before discharge). You'll have an IV line for fluids. No feeding tubes in modern gastric sleeve surgery.

Mortality risk: approximately 0.1-0.2% (1-2 in 1,000). Comparable to gallbladder removal. Modern bariatric surgery is very safe. Risk of NOT having surgery when severely obese is much higher.

Surgical staples inside your stomach (not visible from outside). They're permanent and safe. External incisions closed with dissolvable stitches or glue - no removal needed.

Yes! Gastric sleeve can put type 2 diabetes into remission in 60-70% of patients. You'll need close monitoring as blood sugar drops quickly. May need to adjust medications within days.

Surgery dramatically improves sleep apnea. 75-85% of patients come off CPAP machines within 6-12 months. You'll need to bring CPAP to hospital for first night after surgery.

Rarely needed. Significant bleeding occurs in only 1-2% of cases. Surgeons take precautions to minimize blood loss. You may be offered iron supplements beforehand if anemic.

Very safe with modern monitoring. Your anesthetist will assess your risk factors. Higher BMI slightly increases anesthesia risk, but anesthetists experienced with bariatric patients manage this well.

Many surgeons show educational videos during consultation. YouTube has surgical demonstrations (viewer discretion advised). Seeing the procedure helps some patients feel more prepared.

Most patients rate pain 3-5/10 in first 3 days. Managed with medication. Gas pain in shoulders is common (from CO2 used during surgery). By day 7, most only need paracetamol.

Once you're off strong pain medication (usually 5-7 days) and can safely perform an emergency stop. Test by pressing brake pedal hard while parked. Check your insurance policy requirements.

Next day, usually. Keep dressings dry for 5 days, then remove. Pat incisions dry gently. No swimming or baths for 2 weeks. Most patients feel refreshed after first shower.

Common in first few weeks if you eat too fast, too much, don't chew thoroughly, or drink with meals. It's your body's way of teaching you new eating habits. Persistent vomiting needs medical attention.

Very common in first month due to low food intake, pain medication, and dehydration. Solution: stool softeners, fiber supplements, lots of water. Walking helps too.

Desk job: 1-2 weeks. Physical job: 3-4 weeks. Everyone's different - some return sooner, others need more time. Discuss with your surgeon based on your job demands.

Walking: Immediately (encouraged). Light exercise: 4 weeks. Weight training: 6-8 weeks. High-impact sports: 3 months. Start slowly and listen to your body.

Clear liquids only: water, broth, sugar-free jelly, protein shakes. Sip slowly, aim for 60-80g protein daily. No solid food yet. Your stomach needs time to heal.

Gradual progression: Week 1-2: Clear liquids. Week 3-4: Pureed foods. Week 5-8: Soft foods. Week 9+: Regular foods (small portions). Follow your surgeon's specific diet plan.

First few nights, yes - helps with breathing and reduces reflux. Most patients use 2-3 pillows. After first week, sleep in whatever position is comfortable.

After first few days, yes. Back sleeping is recommended initially. Side sleeping is fine once incision pain subsides. Avoid stomach sleeping for 2-3 weeks.

Pain relief (1 week), anti-nausea (as needed), acid reducer (3-6 months), multivitamin (lifelong), calcium (lifelong), vitamin B12 (lifelong), iron especially for women (lifelong).

Typical schedule: 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 12 months, then annually. Some surgeons see you more frequently. Never skip follow-ups - they're crucial for success.

Seek immediate care for: severe pain, fever >38.5°C, persistent vomiting, inability to keep fluids down, severe shortness of breath, calf pain/swelling, bleeding from incisions.

Yes, especially first few days (from CO2 used during surgery). Walking helps move it through. Shoulder pain is actually gas pain. Usually resolves within 3-5 days.

Yes, but differently. Physical hunger returns around month 3-6, but it's manageable. The removed part of your stomach produced ghrelin (hunger hormone), so hunger is 50-70% less than before.

Absolutely! Tips: order entrée size, take leftovers home, focus on protein, avoid sugary drinks. Most restaurants accommodate small portions. You'll learn what works for you.

You can technically eat anything, but some may cause discomfort: carbonated drinks (uncomfortable), bread/pasta (can get stuck), tough meats (hard to digest), sugar (may cause dumping). You'll learn your tolerances.

Temporary hair thinning affects 40% of patients around months 3-6. It's from rapid weight loss and lower protein intake. It grows back! Take biotin supplements, ensure adequate protein.

Yes! After month 3, you can resume weight training. Focus on high-protein intake (80-100g/day). Many patients successfully build muscle and improve body composition.

If you don't reach goal weight after 18 months, options: revision to gastric bypass, additional support (dietitian, personal trainer), address underlying issues (emotional eating, hormones).

Depends on: amount of weight lost, age (younger = better elasticity), genetics. If you lose 50kg+, you may want it. Cost: $10,000-$30,000. Not usually covered by insurance.

Yes! Wait 12-18 months after surgery before getting pregnant. After that, pregnancy is safe. You'll need extra monitoring for nutritional levels. Fertility often improves with weight loss.

Yes. Daily requirements: multivitamin, calcium + vitamin D, iron (especially women), vitamin B12. Cost: ~$50-$100/month. Non-negotiable - prevents serious deficiencies.

After recovery, yes, but: alcohol absorbs faster, lower tolerance (get drunk quicker), empty calories can stall weight loss. Limit to special occasions. Risk of transfer addiction.

Many patients report taste changes - sweet foods may taste too sweet, preferences shift to savory. Usually temporary but can last several months. Some welcome this change!

Yes, after first month. Tips: avoid on empty stomach (can cause nausea), decaf better in first 3 months, limit to 1-2 cups/day, avoid sugary coffee drinks.

Lifelong requirements: multivitamin, calcium citrate (1200-1500mg), vitamin D, iron (women), vitamin B12, possibly others based on blood tests. Get levels checked annually.

Yes! You'll adapt. Most people won't notice you're eating less. You can enjoy food socially, just smaller portions. Many patients say they enjoy food more, eat mindfully.

Keys: continue healthy eating habits, regular exercise, stay connected to support group, regular follow-ups, address emotional eating, treat surgery as a tool (not cure).

When you eat too much sugar, it dumps into intestines too fast, causing: nausea, sweating, diarrhea, dizziness. Affects 10-15% of patients. Actually helpful - teaches you to avoid sugar.

15-20% of patients regain some weight after 5 years. Causes: stretching stomach (overeating), poor food choices, not exercising. Prevention: follow dietitian advice, support groups, regular follow-ups.

Yes, if you consistently overeat. Your sleeve can stretch 20-30% over years, but will never return to original size. This is why portion control remains important lifelong.

Your surgeon should provide lifetime follow-up. If you move cities, any bariatric surgeon can help. Join patient support groups for ongoing guidance.

Rare (0.5-1% of cases) but serious complication where stomach contents leak from staple line. Symptoms: severe pain, fever, rapid heartbeat. Requires immediate treatment, possibly re-operation.

10-25% of patients develop gallstones after rapid weight loss. Some surgeons remove gallbladder during surgery if ultrasound shows stones. Others prescribe preventive medication.

Preventable with supplements! Common deficiencies: iron (20-30%), vitamin B12 (15-20%), calcium, vitamin D. Annual blood tests catch deficiencies early. Take your vitamins!

20% of sleeve patients develop new reflux symptoms. Usually manageable with medication. If severe, may need conversion to gastric bypass. Bypass usually improves existing reflux.

5-10% of gastric sleeve patients need revision surgery within 5 years due to: inadequate weight loss, weight regain, or severe reflux. Revision options available.

Yes, but tell your gastroenterologist about your surgery. They need to be careful navigating your altered anatomy. Most diagnostic procedures are still possible.

Breakdown: Surgeon professional fee (8 years training): $8,000-$12,000. Hospital theatre, equipment, nursing: $5,000-$10,000. Anesthetist: $2,000-$3,000. Post-op care: Included. Total: $15,000-$25,000.

Many surgeons offer: interest-free 12-month plans, medical finance companies (MacCredit, MediPay), SuperCare (use superannuation on medical grounds). Approval typically 24-48 hours.

Thailand/Mexico gastric sleeve: $8,000-$12,000 AUD. But consider: no post-op support in Australia, if complications occur you're uninsured, travel costs, time off work, language barriers. Risk often not worth savings.

Yes! If your out-of-pocket medical expenses exceed $2,398 in a financial year, you may claim the Net Medical Expenses Tax Offset. Keep all receipts.

Typically includes: surgeon fee, hospital stay (1-2 nights), operating theatre, medical equipment, post-op consultations, often post-op support program. Does NOT include pre-op tests.

Pre-surgery: GP referrals, specialist consultations, blood tests, ECG, sleep study, dietitian, psychology assessment, Optifast diet ($1,500-$3,000). Post-surgery: lifelong vitamins ($50-$100/month), compression garments, follow-up tests.

Highest: Sydney/Melbourne ($16,000-$20,000 self-funded, $5,000-$7,000 with insurance). Moderate: Brisbane/Perth ($15,000-$18,000 / $4,000-$6,000). Most affordable: regional areas ($12,000-$16,000 / $3,500-$5,500).

Typically Gold tier or higher hospital cover with bariatric surgery included. Check policy: some Bronze Plus policies cover it. 12-month waiting period applies. Compare policies before choosing.

Medicare provides $663.45 (MBS item 30514) for gastric sleeve. This is only a portion of total cost. You'll still need private insurance or pay remaining $14,000-$24,000.

Public hospital: free but 12-24 month wait list (varies by state). Must meet strict criteria. Private is much faster (2-6 weeks). Some charity programs exist for extreme cases.

Options: self-fund ($15,000-$25,000), medical loans, payment plans, superannuation early release, save up while doing pre-op requirements, switch to insurance that covers it (wait 12 months).

Hospital cover pays for surgery/accommodation. Extras may cover: dietitian consultations, psychology appointments, physiotherapy. Check your specific extras benefits.

Based on: experience (senior surgeons charge more), hospital location/facilities, reputation/success rates, teaching hospital vs private practice, included aftercare, case complexity.

Not necessarily! Consider: experience, complication rates, patient reviews, post-op support, hospital quality. The cheapest option may cost more long-term if complications arise.

If you lose 40kg and paid $20,000: $500 per kg. Most patients find this perspective helpful - it's an investment in health, not just weight loss.

Sleeve: BMI 35-45, simpler, faster recovery, 60-70% weight loss. Bypass: BMI 45+, 70-80% weight loss, better for diabetes/GERD, longer recovery. Your surgeon recommends based on your situation.

Band is outdated. Sleeve has: 3x better weight loss, lower revision rate, no foreign device, no adjustments needed. Most surgeons no longer offer bands.

Balloon is temporary (6-12 months), non-surgical. Choose balloon if: BMI 30-35 (too low for sleeve), want to test before surgery, can't have surgery (medical reasons). Sleeve is permanent solution.

Mini bypass: shorter surgery time, single connection, similar results. Traditional bypass: longer track record, two connections, slightly lower reflux risk. Both effective - surgeon preference varies.

Medication: 15-20% weight loss, expensive ongoing ($400-$600/month), weight returns if stopped. Surgery: 60-70% weight loss, one-time cost, permanent tool. Surgery more effective for severe obesity.

If BMI 30-35: maybe. If BMI 40+: surgery more effective. Discuss with your doctor. Some patients try medication while on surgery waiting list.

Common revision. If your band failed, sleeve is excellent next step. Single-stage or two-stage surgery depending on complications. Costs similar to primary sleeve.

Switch: maximum weight loss (70-80%), BMI 50+, higher malabsorption, more nutritional risks. Sleeve: simpler, safer, suitable for most. Switch reserved for extreme obesity.

No single "best" - depends on your BMI, health conditions, goals. Gastric sleeve is most popular (60-70% of procedures) because it balances effectiveness with safety.

If sleeve isn't enough: convert to bypass. If bypass isn't enough: distal bypass or duodenal switch. If complications: revision to correct issues. Discuss specific options with surgeon.

Look for: FRACS certification, 5+ years experience, 100+ procedures/year, OSSANZ member, good online reviews, transparent about costs/risks. Consult with 2-3 before deciding.

YES! Most patients consult 2-3 surgeons before deciding. Helps you compare costs, find best fit, feel confident in choice. No obligation to choose first surgeon.

Essential: 1) How many procedures have you done? 2) What's your complication rate? 3) What's included in your fee? 4) What's my expected out-of-pocket? 5) What's your post-op support?

Warning signs: not FRACS certified, won't show complication rates, pressures you to book immediately, offers "deals"/discounts, no post-op support program, practice feels rushed/impersonal.

Preferred but not essential. Look for surgeon who does bariatric surgery regularly (100+ per year). Specialists have more experience with complications and optimization.

Choose accredited private hospital over small clinic. Better equipped for complications, experienced nursing staff, emergency backup. Ask where your surgeon operates.

Good surgeons share: complication rates, average weight loss results, patient testimonials. If they're evasive about outcomes, that's a red flag.

Both matter! You need a skilled surgeon (100+ procedures/year) who also makes you feel comfortable. Trust your gut - if something feels off, see someone else.

Don't choose cheapest! Consider total value: experience, outcomes, support. A $3,000 cheaper surgeon isn't worth it if complications cost $10,000 to fix.

Before surgery: absolutely. After booking: may forfeit deposit. After surgery: you can see another surgeon for follow-up, but may need to pay consultation fees.

Yes, if healthy enough for anesthesia. Age alone isn't a barrier. Surgeons operate on patients up to 65-70 regularly. Thorough pre-op assessment ensures safety.

Yes! 30-40% of patients are male. Men often have: faster weight loss, better diabetes remission, fewer nutritional deficiencies. Procedure is same for men and women.

Surgery can put type 2 diabetes into remission in 60-70% of patients (bypass: 80-90%). Need close monitoring in first months as blood sugar drops quickly. May adjust medications within days.

Yes! Surgery dramatically improves sleep apnea. 75-85% come off CPAP within 6-12 months. Bring CPAP to hospital for first night. Anesthetist will manage airway carefully.

Wait until after pregnancy. If you've already had surgery, wait 12-18 months before getting pregnant. Post-surgery: fertility often improves, pregnancy is safe with monitoring.

Depends. Mild GERD: gastric sleeve okay. Severe GERD: gastric bypass better (often cures reflux). Discuss severity with surgeon - they'll recommend best option.

Usually safe to proceed. Your surgeon will consult with your specialist. Some conditions require special management. Ensure your condition is stable before surgery.

Depends on severity. Cardiologist clearance required. Many heart patients benefit from weight loss, but surgery risk is assessed individually. May need cardiac monitoring during/after.

Usually not a problem, though scar tissue may make surgery more challenging. Inform your surgeon of all previous surgeries. May slightly increase operating time.

Yes - medical decisions aren't based on employment status. Accessing payment is the challenge. Explore: public hospital waiting list, payment plans, compassionate super release.

Avoid NSAIDs (ibuprofen, Nurofen) long-term - they can cause ulcers. Use paracetamol instead. Talk to surgeon before taking any regular medications. Opioids should be avoided.

Depends on: amount of weight lost, age (younger = better skin elasticity), genetics. If you lose 50kg+, you may want skin removal. Cost: $10,000-$30,000. Not usually insured.

Yes! Your scars are small and fade. Wear sunscreen on scars for first 12 months. Many patients feel more confident at the beach after weight loss despite scars.

After 3 months, you can travel freely. Bring: vitamin supplements, surgeon's letter explaining your surgery (for airport security), list of safe foods. Stay hydrated on flights.

Usually yes, after 6 months and if your iron levels are adequate. Red Cross will assess eligibility. Some patients become ineligible due to low iron. Check before donating.

Some medications need adjustment: diabetes meds (reduce immediately), blood pressure meds (may need lower doses), contraceptives (absorption may change). Inform all doctors about your surgery.

Yes. Always inform surgeons/anesthetists about your bariatric surgery. They need to know for medication dosing, positioning, and anesthesia planning.

Continue regular dental care. Some patients develop teeth sensitivity from vomiting. Dentist should know about your surgery - affects anesthesia and positioning.

After 3-6 months and full recovery, yes! Many patients become MORE active after surgery. Just ensure you're healed and cleared by your surgeon for contact sports.

Initially challenging - you can't eat much at social events. Long-term: most patients adapt well. You can still enjoy dining out, just smaller portions. Many report improved social confidence.