Post Operative Care & Follow-Up
Weight loss surgery is just the beginning — real success lies in ongoing support and commitment.
Dr Karihaloo and Dr Di Sano are committed to personalised, compassionate care and lead one of the region’s highest follow-up engagement rates, providing structured aftercare that includes body composition scans, nutritional guidance, psychological support, and regular reviews to maximise outcomes and minimise complications.
How long will my operation/recovery ward time be?
As a guide, the operation itself will take 1.5 to 2 hours and you will be in the Recovery Ward for approximately 2 hours before returning to your room.
How long will I be in hospital?
Generally, you will be in hospital for 2 nights. Follow the dietitian instructions you received prior to your surgery.
How do I care for my dressings after surgery?
If required, the nurses at the hospital will change your dressings prior to your discharge home. You will also receive written instructions from the hospital on discharge. It is advisable to leave dressings intact for 4 to 5 days post-surgery then remove and leave wounds exposed.
If dressings become loose and water seeps under the dressings remove and replace if necessary.
Your stitches are all dissolving. Some stitch ends may become noticeable and can be left alone. If you are concerned, please call the rooms to discuss this with the Nurse.
Frequently Asked Questions
What about my medications on the day of surgery?
When you were given a procedure date the doctor should have given you instructions on which medications if any to cease on the day of surgery. If you are unsure, please call the nurse on (02) 4947 8177 to discuss your medications.
How much time off work will I need?
Generally, two to three weeks off work is typical but this will depend on the type of work to be undertaken. You can discuss this with your surgeon.
What happens with my medication after surgery?
You will need to continue to crush or cut up large tablets for two weeks and then resume as normal.
Capsules can be opened
What pain relief can I take after surgery?
You can take soluble Panadol if required for pain/discomfort.
If you experience 'shoulder tip pain' you may benefit from a heat pack. Walking and moving your shoulders as much as possible will help alleviate this pain.
DO NOT take any anti-inflammatory medications for at least three months, e.g. Nurofen, Naprosyn after surgery. If you are required to take a short course of NSAID's you also need to take this with an anti-reflux medication if you are not already on one.
Will I be placed on any medications on discharge?
You will be required to take an anti-reflux medication (if you do not already take one) for the first one to two months after your surgery (one tablet per day). These will be given to you at the hospital. If you experience reflux symptoms once you have finished your course of medication, please call, and discuss with our Nurse.
Will I need TED stockings?
You will be fitted with TED stockings on admission to the hospital and you will need to wear these for 1 to 2 weeks or until back to normal daily activities.
When can I exercise?
You will be up walking on the day after your surgery. You can start exercising in the third week after your operation including attending a gym.
When am I allowed to drive?
Generally, you are able to drive when you can turn your body comfortably to see blind spots – usually 1 to 2 weeks after your surgery.
What surgical technique for the sleeve gastrectomy is used?
The sleeve gastrectomy is fashioned with a French bougie which is approximately the size of Doctor’s thumb. It is reinforced with absorbable buttressing, tissue glue and occasionally clips and sutures. The surgeon performs a visual leak test during your operation.
What is the follow-up after surgery?
You will need to see the dietician every two weeks initially as you progress through dietary phases: liquids, then purees, then soft food. It is important to maintain this contact to monitor nutrition down the track. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies can occur and may require treatment. Hair loss is not uncommon with rapid weight-loss. Post-menopause, women who have weight-loss surgery are at risk of osteoporosis. Symptomatic gallstones occur in 10% of people after surgery. A small proportion of people develop troublesome folds of excess skin. Gastric bands require regular adjustment. For all these reasons, regular ongoing follow-up with your surgeon is essential for a successful result.
