The preoperative evaluation is a multidisciplinary assessment of you and your suitability for bariatric surgery.  It is vital to remember that this assessment is in your best interest and designed to identify any potential troubles and optimise the outcome of your surgery.  It is possible that following this assessment you will be declined surgery. The process involves you being seen by each and everyone of the team which includes the surgeon, counsellor/therapist, dietitian and anaesthetist.

Surgeon:

The surgeon will discuss the issues related to obesity and talk in depth about the various surgical options that are available so that you are fully informed and can make an educated decision.

Counsellor/Therapist:

Prior to surgery our counsellor will meet with you on an individual basis for at least two sessions, each of 50 minutes duration. This is a time to empower you by discussing and heightening your awareness of your general life long patterns. This is important before surgery as it can help identify issues that may arise for you after surgery.

She is also available to work with you for either a brief or long term psychotherapeutic work, if you wish. We strongly advise that you seek help and address any emotional issues that arise. The aim is a good outcome for you.

Dietitian:

The dietitian has a nutritional plan that will fit in with your life.  Prior to surgery it is essential that you go on an Optifast® diet.  Weight loss prior to surgery is an essential step. Weight loss before surgery is known to reduce the size of your liver and decrease the fat in the abdomen. This makes the keyhole operation technically more straightforward and therefore safer. Any weight loss achieved is positive and a step in the right direction.

Anaesthetist:

The anaesthetist is the specialist doctor that puts you to sleep for your   surgery.  Before surgery, the anaesthetist will see you and discuss your past medical problems.  Further tests will be organised including chest x-ray, ECG, and blood tests.  Other tests may be required such as echocardiograph and blood gases.

Lifestyle Coach:

The lifestyle coach is a professionally trained individual whose role is to motivate you. Before and after surgery the lifestyle coach will work with you to set up an exercise program that will guide you through the various stages of the bariatric program and most importantly help you define a new way of life.

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