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Weight Loss Surgery FAQs

FAQs

Common Questions About Weight Loss Surgery

It can take as little as 2-3 weeks after your first visit with your Bariatric Surgeon, and Dietitian to have obesity surgery. However, we recommend, you take a little time to consider if it’s right for you.

There are a few criteria used to determine suitability for Obesity Surgery, we look at BMI (Body Mass Index) and in addition we also consider the patient’s overall health and any existing medical diagnoses. Click here to use our BMI calculator to find out if weight loss surgery is a suitable weight loss option for you.

This can vary for different patients. Generally speaking, most patients can start walking within a few days after obesity surgery, and more vigorous exercise can commence within 3 weeks. We recommend you discuss this with your Bariatric Surgeon during your consultations to ensure you have the most appropriate advice especially tailored to you.

At BodyFree Weight Loss Clinic, we mostly perform Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy) or Gastric Bypass procedures for our patients, although there are other surgical options available – we have found these procedures offer great long-term results. In order to decide on the best surgical option for you, we would recommend you come in for a consultation with the Bariatric Surgeon to discuss your personal health and lifestyle goals.

We are located in Sydney. Consultations with our Bariatric Surgeon and Dietitian are held at our clinic in Newtown (or may be offered as telehealth consults via Zoom or phone) with surgery performed at a number of hospitals including The Mater Hospital, North Sydney, East Sydney Private Hospital, Woolloomooloo and Prince of Wales Private Hospital, Randwick.

Telehealth and In-clinic consultations are available. No long waitlists — secure your appointment as early as this week.

As a guide, most patients need 2 nights in hospital post-operatively, and depending on the work in which you are employed, anywhere from 3-14 days off work.

Routine medications can be recommenced as directed in the post-operative phase and any blood thinning agents that patients were previously taking will also be recommenced as directed by the medical team.

At BodyFree Weight Loss Clinic, we mostly perform Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy) and Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y and Mini/Single Loop) procedures for our patients, although there are other surgical options available – we have found these procedures offer great long-term results.

The  SADI-S procedure is also offered at the clinic, your Bariatric Surgeon will discuss this option with you if deemed an appropriate procedure for you.

Most health funds provide cover for obesity surgery, but the level of cover you have selected will determine if you are covered.  We recommend calling your health fund to check on what is included under your plan.  Your health fund may ask what item numbers you are enquiring about, they are:

  • 31575 for Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy)
  • 31572 for Gastric Bypass
  • 31581 for SADI-S

Many patients choose to access funds from their Superannuation to cover the costs associated with obesity surgery. You will need to meet some criteria and also obtain permission from the ATO before you can access these funds. We can assist with more information and paperwork that will allow you to submit a request to the ATO following your initial consults with us.

You will also need paperwork from your GP in order to apply. You can find more information on the ATO website HERE.

If you have Private Health Insurance covering you for Bariatric Surgery (Weight Loss Surgery) in a private hospital (and this is your first Bariatric procedure), BodyFree Weight Loss Clinic can provide all of your pre and post-operative care, surgery, and ongoing follow-up for 24 months post surgery for a fixed price of $4,990.

This includes all of your medical and Dietitian assessments, anaesthetist, surgeon and surgical assistant costs.

View Weight Loss Surgery Program Pricing.

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Dr David Joseph

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Let's get your confidential consultation with bariatric surgeon Dr David Joseph scheduled today. No long waitlists — secure your appointment as early as this week.

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Real Patient Experiences

Bariatric Surgeon Dr David Joseph and the BodyFree team has helped more than 7,000 weight loss surgery patients achieve their health and weight goals.

I had a mini bypass in September 2024 and it was one of the best decisions I ever made. Right from the initial consult to now, 18 months post-surgery, I have been well-supported by the surgeon, dietician, and other staff at BodyFree Weight Loss Clinic. They have done fabulous post-care, keeping track of how I am going and how I might need to make lifestyle or diet adjustments. I would encourage anyone who is sitting on the fence to give BodyFree Weight Loss Clinic very serious consideration if you make a decision to go for it. I have been very happy!
Laishah Matthews
Laishah M
I can’t thank the whole team enough, from initial consultation all the way to the operating table the process was simply and the work done was amazing. Both pre and post surgery I found amazing! Thank you Dr Joseph and all the team involved for giving me the extra push and helping me get my life back.
Hiawe Bercich
Hiawe B
Recently I utilised the services of BodyFree and have to say it has been the best experience. My Surgeon was Dr Joseph, a no nonsense, tell you how it is Doctor. I knew what to expect at every part of the journey and although my interactions with him were very short and sweet, he showed empathy and you could tell he genuinely cared that my experience was a good one and all questions had been answered. All in all, if I could rate my experience higher than a 5, I would.
Ashlee M
Ashlee M
The BodyFree surgical team are fantastic. I was genuinely scared to go through with this surgery and the team have been nothing but helpful and caring.
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Emily W
From the initial contact with receptionists Heather and Bianca to consultations with Natasha, the dietician, and Dr. David Joseph, I experienced a remarkably streamlined process. The practice's commitment to providing essential information has earned my highest recommendation for exceptional patient care.
Wendy
Wendy
Thanks to Dr. Joseph, Natasha Leader, Bianca and Heather, and everyone at the BodyFree Clinic. I wholeheartedly recommend Dr. David Joseph to anyone considering gastric sleeve surgery. He is not just a highly skilled surgeon but also a compassionate professional who, along with his dedicated team, truly changes lives for the better.
Kloud G
Kloud G
I first came to see Dr Joseph on the recommendation from a good friend. The care, support & professionalism from Dr Joseph, Heather & Bianca has been, and continues to be nothing short of incredible. Along with additional help from Natasha Leader as my dietician, my goals have been achievable. Nothing has ever been too much trouble for David or his team - they've been genuinely interested in my progress and the aftercare is impeccable. If I could give more than 5 stars, I wouldn't hesitate.
Maureen Philbert
Maureen P