What to Expect Before and After Weight Loss Surgery

Weight loss surgery may assist individuals living with obesity to manage their weight when lifestyle changes alone have not been effective. At North Eastern Weight Loss Surgery (NEWLS), our team provides support throughout each stage of the process. Understanding what to expect before and after the procedure can help you prepare and feel more confident in your decisions.

Before Surgery

1. Initial Consultation

The first step is to book a consultation. During this appointment, a health professional will review your health history, current weight, and any related conditions. This assessment helps determine whether surgery may be a suitable option for you. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss which procedure may be appropriate. To request an appointment, please visit our contact page.

2. Health Assessments and Pre-operative Planning

If you are eligible, you will undergo further assessments. These may include:

• Nutritional review
  
• Mental health screening
  
• Blood tests and imaging
  

These assessments help to reduce risks and prepare you for surgery. Pre-operative planning may include a temporary diet and recommendations for light physical activity.

3. Pre-operative Diet

A low-calorie diet may be advised for one to two weeks before surgery. This is to reduce liver size and improve access to the stomach during the procedure.

On the Day of Surgery

You will be admitted to hospital where the procedure is performed under general anaesthesia. The type of surgery, such as sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass, is usually performed laparoscopically, which means smaller incisions and generally shorter recovery times. Most patients stay in the hospital for one to three days, depending on the procedure and individual recovery.

After Surgery

1. Recovery and Hospital Stay

You will be monitored during your hospital stay to manage hydration, pain relief, and mobility. Early mobilisation is often encouraged to support recovery.

2. Dietary Changes

After surgery, your diet progresses through four key stages:

• Stage 1: Liquids - Clear fluids only, such as water and broth.
  
• Stage 2: Pureed Foods - Smooth foods are introduced over one to two weeks.
  
• Stage 3: Soft Foods - Small portions of soft proteins and vegetables.
  
• Stage 4: Regular Diet - Balanced meals focusing on protein and nutrient density.
  

High protein intake is encouraged, while foods high in sugar or fat are generally limited.

3. Exercise

Exercise is often encouraged once you are cleared to begin physical activity. This may start with light walking and gradually include structured aerobic and resistance exercises. Physical activity may improve long-term weight management, cardiovascular health, and emotional well-being.

4. Regular Follow-ups

You will attend follow-up appointments to monitor your progress. These reviews may include:

• Blood tests to check for nutrient levels
  
• Adjustments to supplementation
  
• Psychological support
  
• Ongoing dietary and exercise guidance
  

Long-term follow-up is considered important for maintaining weight loss and reducing the risk of complications or nutrient deficiencies.

Long-Term Considerations

Weight loss results vary depending on the type of procedure, individual characteristics, and adherence to post-operative guidelines. Many individuals experience significant weight loss in the first 12 to 18 months post-surgery, especially when combined with consistent lifestyle changes. Weight regain may occur if dietary or activity guidelines are not followed, which is why long-term support is considered important.

Ongoing care may include:

• Routine blood tests
  
• Support from a dietitian or psychologist
  
• Medication reviews
  
• Regular physical activity
  

Support systems, including family, structured groups, or healthcare teams, can play a role in maintaining outcomes.

Summary

Weight loss surgery may support individuals in achieving and maintaining a lower weight when combined with long-term lifestyle changes. The process involves careful planning, a structured recovery, and ongoing follow-up. At North Eastern Weight Loss Surgery, our team provides guidance and care through each stage of this process, using evidence-based practices aligned with Australian health standards. To find out more or request an appointment, please contact us here.

Disclaimer:

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with a qualified health professional to determine what’s right for your situation.

Sources

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. (2020). Overweight and obesity. https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports-data/behaviours-risk-factors/overweight-obesity

International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders. (2023). Nutritional guidelines after bariatric surgery. https://www.ifso.com

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2022). Bariatric surgery. National Institutes of Health. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/weight-management/bariatric-surgery

Obesity Surgery Society of Australia and New Zealand. (2021). Clinical practice guidelines. https://ossanz.com.au