RECOVERY & RISKS FOR WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY

When contemplating Weight Loss Surgery, it’s crucial to recognise that all surgical procedures carry risks. Being well-informed about these risks and taking precautions to minimise them will be key to your recovery. However, it is imperative to know that despite choosing a skilled Bariatric Surgeon, receiving care in a premium hospital, and following recovery protocols, complications and risks can still occur.

This page contains information on:

  • General Weight Loss Surgery Risks
  • Procedure-Specific Risks
  • How to Minimise Your Own Risk
  • What to Expect During Your Recovery

Please note, the information on this page is general in nature. Risks and recovery will vary from person-to-person. Prior to providing surgical consent, your Surgeon will thoroughly assess and explain your exposure to risk and discuss your individual recovery. For further advice or clarification on surgical risk and your recovery, please consult your Surgeon, GP or other appropriately qualified health practitioner.

Post Surgery Recovery

GENERAL WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY RISKS

The following risks & potential complications apply to most surgical procedures, including Weight Loss Surgery.

  • Seroma (fluid accumulation) around the incision site, leading to swelling and discomfort. The use of drains will help to remove excess fluid and reduce the risk of seroma formation. Individual factors such as age, overall health, and underlying medical conditions can influence the risk of seroma formation.
  • Bleeding, or haematoma requiring drainage. Factors such as age, general health, certain medical conditions, certain medications, infections, and excessive activity too soon after surgery can increase the risk of hematoma.
  • Infections that may need antibiotic treatment or further surgery
  • Allergic reactions to medical materials
  • Keloid or hypertrophic scarring – Scarring is a natural part of the healing process after plastic surgery. While most scars fade over time, there is a risk of developing hypertrophic scars, which can be thick, lumpy, raised, inflamed & itchy.
  • Delayed wound healing which can be caused by factors such as poor blood supply, infection, inadequate wound care, medical conditions (including diabetes), poor nutrition, tension on the wound or separation of wound edges, certain medications or smoking.
  • Deep Vein Thrombosis or Deep Vein Embolism occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein, typically in the thigh or lower leg.
  • Severe pain or discomfort which may be temporary or ongoing
  • Heart attack, pulmonary embolism, stroke or death – While rare, this can be attributed to factors including anaesthesia or surgical complications, blood clots and underlying medical conditions.
  • Nerve damage, which alters sensation or sensitivity and numbness on or around the surgical site. This may be temporary or permanent.
  • Need for further surgery to treat complications or revise surgical outcomes
  • Temporary swelling & bruising
  • Weight loss may not be achieved

Prior to your surgery, you will be able to discuss any concerns you have regarding anaesthesia. General Anesthesia risks, include:

  • Allergic reactions
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Nausea & vomiting
  • Aspiration
  • Cardiac complications
  • Post-Operative Cognitive Dysfunction (POCD)
  • Temporary medical side-effects such as drowsiness, headaches or muscle aches.

 

PROCEDURE-SPECIFIC RISKS

GASTRIC SLEEVE SURGERY

  • Stomach Expansion: Over time, the sleeve may expand, potentially causing weight regain. Regular follow-ups are essential.
  • Acid Reflux: Some individuals may experience increased acid reflux symptoms after this procedure.
  • Leakage from the Cut Edge of the Stomach: This can occur after the surgery.
  • Gastrointestinal Obstruction: A blockage in the digestive system may happen.
  • Hernias: Hernias can develop post-surgery.
  • Malnutrition: Reduced stomach size may impact nutrient absorption.
  • Vomiting: Some individuals may experience persistent vomiting.
  • Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia): Hormonal changes after the surgery can affect blood sugar levels.

 

MINIMISING YOUR OWN PERSONAL RISK

Your health is our number one priority. This is why, failure to follow some of the following may result in your surgery being postponed or, even cancelled.

  1. Read all documentation from CosMediTour & your Surgeon closely
  2. Precisely follow all the advice from your Surgeon as this will be tailored to your individual needs, this includes:
    • Diet
    • Activity
    • Wound care
  3. Disclose your full medical history, including:
    • Physical health including but not limited to allergies, medical conditions, diseases or illnesses, smoker status, weight.
    • Mental health illnesses or concerns including but not limited to anxiety, depression, body dysmorphic disorder.
    • Medications, vitamins & supplements
  4. Alert your CosMediTour Client Manager and/or Surgeon to changes relating to any of the above.
  5. Be in great physical health prior to surgery
  6. Ensure you have realistic surgical goals & work with your surgeon to ensure your treatment plan is safe. Also understand that results are never guaranteed and that individual results may vary. The outcomes for one patient may not necessarily reflect your results.
  7. Minimise your exposure to post-operative risks during recovery by:
    • Ensuring you are suitably prepared for your recovery period.
    • Attending all follow-up appointments
    • Ensuring proper wound care
    • Wearing post-surgery support garments as instructed
    • Maintaining good nutrition
    • Until advised by your surgeon, avoid activities that may hinder your recovery, including smoking, alcohol, strenuous exercise etc.
    • Quickly communicate any concerns you have with your Surgeon or CosMediTour Client Manager.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR RECOVERY

Indicative recovery information for each procedure is provided below.

GASTRIC SLEEVE SURGERY

REST TIME | 2 weeks
During the initial 2 weeks post-surgery, patients follow a specific dietary plan. The first 2 days consist of a liquid diet, progressing to a soft diet over the following 1-2 weeks. Patients with Sleep Apnea are advised to continue using a CPAP machine. It’s essential to focus on rest and gradual reintegration into daily activities during this period.

RECOVERY TIME | 12 Weeks
The recovery period spans 12 weeks, during which patients gradually transition to a normal but smaller volume diet from weeks 2-12. Patients can begin a regular exercise routine after the first month. A second follow-up appointment is typically scheduled at 1-2 months post-surgery, often conducted via Telehealth. It’s crucial to monitor for any signs of complications such as leakage or bleeding and adhere strictly to the prescribed post-surgery diet.

MAINTENENCE PHASE | 12 Months
The settling period extends over 12 months, during which patients can observe the final results of their weight loss. Regular follow-up appointments are recommended during this time. Additionally, periodic consultations with nutritionists for dietary advice are beneficial. Patients should maintain a healthy lifestyle, focusing on both diet and exercise, as a long-term commitment to lifestyle changes is crucial for weight management.