Wait Times for Surgery

A question we get asked a lot is “How long do I need to wait”?

The answer will depend on a few factors:

• Which surgeon you are seeing?
• Is you Private Health Insurance active?
• Which hospital you are attending.

Generally, once you see your surgeon for the 1st time, you will be given a lot of information to take home, read through and digest. There are different surgical options you will be presented with along with information around what to expect pre and post surgically.

We will ask you to return with a few weeks to discuss with your surgeon again, and make a decision on which type of procedure you would like. Once this is decided, you will discuss options for hospitals and surgery dates. Once all of this has been agreed upon, our reception team will help you book all your pre-surgical consultations in with our team. You will need to see the following practitioners prior to your surgery proceeding:

• Bariatric GP
• Dietitian
• Lifestyle Coach

All 3 of these appointments help you prepare for surgery physically and mentally. Our aim is that you are well informed and ready for the all the changes that need to occur pre and post surgery, so you can get the most out of the procedure.

Usually, all of this can take 4-8 weeks from when you first see your surgeon. The process can take longer if you have specific dates you would like to have surgery, for example during school holidays if you are a teacher.

All in all, the process should not be rushed, to make sure this is a long term solution. While surgery is a great tool to assist with weight loss, there are lifestyle changes that need to be made. With the right tools and advice, we hope to see all of our patient thrive post surgically and meet their goals.

If you want to discuss further, give our reception team a call and they are happen to answer any of your questions. Alternatively, book an appointment to see your GP. They will be able to talk with you and give you a referral if you decide to proceed.