FAQs
Common Questions About Weight Loss Surgery
How quickly can I have Obesity 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.
Am I a candidate for surgery?
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.
How soon can I exercise after Weight Loss Surgery?
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.
What is the best surgical option for me?
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.
Where are you located?
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.
How much time will I need off work after Obesity Surgery?
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.
Can I continue to take other medicines before or after my Weight Loss Surgery?
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.
What weight loss procedures do you offer?
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.
What kind of Private Health Insurance do I need?
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
Can I use my Superannuation to cover the costs of Weight Loss Surgery?
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.
What is included for $6,580?
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 out of pocket cost of $6,580.
This includes all of your medical and Dietitian assessments, anaesthetist, surgeon and surgical assistant costs.
How do I choose between gastric sleeve and gastric bypass?
The most suitable weight loss surgery procedure depends on several factors including your BMI, medical history, reflux symptoms, type 2 diabetes, eating habits, previous surgery and long-term weight loss goals.
Gastric sleeve surgery is currently the most commonly performed bariatric procedure and may be suitable for many patients. Gastric bypass surgery may be more appropriate for some patients with significant reflux, poorly controlled type 2 diabetes, previous bariatric surgery or higher BMI.
During your consultation, Dr David Joseph will assess your individual circumstances and discuss the risks, benefits and expected outcomes of each procedure to help determine the safest and most appropriate option for you.
Can I have weight loss surgery if I live outside Sydney?
Yes. BodyFree regularly cares for patients from regional New South Wales, interstate and other areas outside Sydney. Telehealth consultations are available for many appointments, and some follow-up consultations may also be completed by phone or Telehealth where appropriate.
Patients will need to travel to Sydney for surgery with post operative follow-up available via Telehealth. The BodyFree team can explain what appointments, tests and follow-up arrangements may be required based on your location and procedure.
What happens at the first bariatric surgery consultation?
Your first consultation with Dr David Joseph involves a comprehensive discussion about your weight history, medical conditions, previous weight loss attempts, medications, lifestyle and goals. Your BMI and obesity-related health conditions may also be reviewed.
Dr David Joseph will discuss the different surgical options available, including gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, SADI-S and revision bariatric surgery where appropriate. The risks, benefits, recovery process, expected outcomes and suitability of each procedure will also be explained.
You may also meet with the BodyFree dietitian to discuss pre-operative preparation, dietary changes and post-operative nutrition requirements. Further tests, referrals or follow-up appointments may be recommended before surgery is scheduled.
