Bariatric (weight loss) surgery is an effective treatment option for severe obesity and related health conditions. The
best outcomes are achieved when surgery is combined with appropriate preparation before the procedure and
ongoing lifestyle changes afterwards.
Good preparation can help improve safety, support recovery, and assist with long-term weight management.
At our clinic, we recognise that there is no single approach that suits everyone. We take a personalised approach,
where preparation is guided through a detailed consultation with our team. During this process, we review your
medical history, lifestyle, and individual needs to develop a tailored plan.
- Why preparation is important
Preparing before surgery may help to:
● Support safer surgery
● Assist recovery after surgery
● Improve long-term weight management outcomes
● Encourage early lifestyle changes
Bariatric surgery is part of a broader, long-term treatment approach that involves ongoing behavioural and lifestyle
adjustments. - Nutritional assessment
Some people undergoing bariatric surgery may have low levels of certain vitamins or minerals, including iron, vitamin
D, and vitamin B12.
Before surgery, we may recommend:
● Blood tests to assess nutritional status
● Dietitian review
● Correction of any identified deficiencies
● Education regarding post-operative dietary requirements
This helps ensure the body is optimised for surgery and recovery. - Pre-operative dietary plan
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A structured dietary plan is commonly recommended prior to surgery.
This may help to:
● Reduce liver size, which may assist with the surgical procedure
● Support initial weight loss
● Begin building long-term healthy eating habits
This plan may include:
● Higher protein intake
● Reduced carbohydrate and sugar intake
● Adequate fluid intake
● A short pre-operative liquid diet in some cases
- Physical activity
Regular physical activity before surgery may assist with general fitness and recovery.
Suitable activities may include:
● Walking
● Swimming
● Light exercise as tolerated
Activity levels are individualised based on each patient’s ability and health status. - Smoking and alcohol
Smoking is associated with increased risk of complications following surgery.
We generally recommend:
● Stopping smoking at least 4–6 weeks before surgery
● Reducing or avoiding alcohol intake prior to surgery
These steps may assist with healing and reduce surgical risk. - Psychological and behavioural preparation
Bariatric surgery involves long-term changes in eating behaviour and lifestyle.
Support may include:
● Identifying patterns of emotional eating
● Setting realistic expectations
● Preparing for dietary and lifestyle changes after surgery
This preparation aims to support long-term behavioural change.
- Understanding the surgical journey
We provide detailed education about the procedure and recovery process, including:
● What the surgery involves
● Potential risks and complications
● Dietary progression after surgery
● Vitamin and mineral supplementation requirements
● Follow-up care and monitoring
This helps ensure patients are well informed and prepared. - Building healthy habits early
Patients are encouraged to begin developing sustainable habits before surgery, such as:
● Eating slowly and mindfully
● Prioritising protein-rich foods
● Reducing grazing or frequent snacking
● Maintaining adequate hydration
● Increasing daily physical activity where possible
These changes may assist in supporting long-term lifestyle adjustment.
Final message
Bariatric surgery is most effective when combined with careful preparation and ongoing lifestyle changes after the
procedure.
At our clinic, we take a personalised, multidisciplinary approach, working closely with each patient to develop an
individualised preparation plan based on their specific needs.
We aim to support patients throughout their journey—from initial consultation through to long-term follow-up care.