Common Questions about Weight Loss Surgery

Yes, most weight loss surgeries, including gastric sleeve and gastric bypass, are performed using laparoscopic surgery, which is also known as "keyhole" surgery. This minimally invasive technique involves making small incisions in the abdomen through which Dr Hopkins inserts a camera and instruments. This method has several advantages, including reduced pain, a quicker recovery time, and minimal scarring compared to traditional open surgery.

The length of your hospital stay will depend on the type of surgery you have and how well you recover. Most patients stay in the hospital for 2 nights after laparoscopic weight loss surgery. During this time, you will be monitored closely, and your care team will ensure that you are comfortable and ready to start your recovery process. 

During your hospital stay, you will be closely monitored by a team of healthcare professionals.

Here’s what you can expect:

• On the day: You will wait in the Admissions area of the hospital until you are called through. Here you will have a consultation with the pre-op nurse, who will assist you in getting ready for surgery. When it’s time, you will go to the Anaesthetic bay to start the surgery process. 

• Post-surgery monitoring: After your surgery, you will be moved to a recovery area where we will monitor your vital signs and ensure that you are comfortable.

• Pain management: We will provide medication to manage any discomfort. You’ll be encouraged to begin moving around to prevent blood clots and promote circulation.

• Dietary support: While in hospital, you will be started on a very specific fluid only diet as your stomach heals.

• Discharge instructions: Before leaving the hospital, you will receive detailed instructions on what to do at home, including pain management, dietary guidelines, and signs to watch for in case of complications.

The timeline for returning to full activity varies from person to person, but in general:

• Light activity: You can typically resume light activities like walking and short trips within a few days of surgery.

• Work and social activities: Many patients return to work after 2 weeks depending on the nature of their job (if it's not physically demanding).

• Exercise: Most patients can begin light exercise (such as walking or gentle stretching) after 1-2 weeks, but you should avoid high-impact activities or heavy lifting until 6-8 weeks to allow your body time to heal fully.

Dr Hopkins will advise you about when it’s safe to resume specific activities or exercise based on your recovery.

Follow-up care is an important part of the weight loss surgery journey. After your surgery, you will have regular check-ups with Dr Hopkins and the Dietitian to ensure you’re recovering well and adjusting to your new lifestyle. Typically, follow-up appointments include:

• Surgeon follow-up: You’ll have an appointment 2-4 weeks after surgery to check on your healing, assess your progress, and address any concerns.You will continue to see Dr Hopkins regularly throughout your journey.

• Dietitian support: You’ll meet with our dietitian to ensure you are following the correct eating plan and getting the nutrients you need.

• Psychological support: If you need, the psychologist is available to provide support around adjustment post-surgery and the emotional aspects with regards to the surgery.

Our team is with you every step of the way to support your long-term success.

Starting your weight loss surgery journey begins with an initial consultation with Dr Roy Hopkins. During this initial appointment, he will:

• Discuss your medical history and any weight-related health conditions.

• Review the available surgical options and recommend the one best suited to your needs.

• Outline the steps involved in your surgery journey, including medical assessments and consultations with a dietitian and psychologist.

• Provide information on costs.

From there, we’ll guide you through the entire process, ensuring you feel fully supported and informed at every stage.

Some people are able to access their Superannuation (Super) to help pay for weight loss surgery. To use your Super for this purpose, you will need to meet certain eligibility criteria and the process requires approval from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). More information is available on the ATO website.