Frequently Asked Questions

Every patient response to bariatric surgery differently, but most patients will lose 60-70% of their excess weight in the first 12 months with appropriate dietetic support. It is important that you attend all your postoperative check-ups and dietitian appointments to achieve the best possible weight loss outcome.

Bariatric surgery is a highly successful intervention of obesity. It gives patients a powerful kick start in their weight loss journey. Continued lifestyle modifications with appropriate dietetic support and regular exercise after surgery is linked to a greater success in weight loss.

From the national registry data, the risk of bariatric surgery is about the same as undergoing common surgeries such as gallbladder removal or hysterectomy. In obese patients, the benefits of bariatric surgery greatly outweigh the risks. However, every patient is unique. Age, gender, medical conditions and previous surgery are amongst a multitude of other factors determining an individual risks for surgery.

The length of postoperative hospital stay depends on how well you recover from the surgery and anaesthesia.  You will only be discharged when you are ready and confident to go home. Patients generally stay between 2-3 days.

Most bariatric patients will recover well enough in two weeks to resume light indoor duties e.g. desk job. If your work involves manual laboring, long distance driving or outdoor activities, you should take four weeks off work. A medical certificate will be provided to you in advance or upon your discharge from the hospital.

You will undergo a period of Meals Replacement Therapy prior to your surgery. This is by use of a Very Low Calorie Diet (VLCD) to replace all your daily meals. The period is between 2-3 weeks leading up to the date of your surgery. The dietitian will assist you and provide you with different options. Meals Replacement Therapy helps you to lose 5-10kg and reduce any fatty liver disease, making your surgery safer. VLCD meals are purchased at your own expense.

You will be put on a liquid diet once your gut function returns after surgery. The dietitian will then guide you through a stepwise approach to increase the textures and varieties of foods in the subsequent weeks following your surgery. The dietitian will formulate a nutrition plan that suits your needs and works in your own circumstances. Majority of patients will take at least 6 weeks to resume the consumption of moist solid food.

Becoming pregnant can be easier after successful weight loss. It is generally not recommended to conceive in the first 12 months after bariatric surgery. The substantial weight loss during this period and the increased nutrition requirements in pregnancy can be overwhelming to your body. Discuss with your obstetrician if you are considering conceiving after bariatric surgery.

Minor hair loss is common after weight loss surgery. This is a normal reaction to the stress of surgery and substantial weight loss. Provided you follow your dietary requirements and vitamin and mineral supplementation, hair loss should be minimal and temporary.

There are a number of ways to minimize excess skin after substantial weight loss. Adequate protein intake and weight bearing exercise help to maintain your lean muscle mass and skin tone. Multi-vitamins supplement helps to optimize skin elasticity and overall skin health. Sufficient fluid intake to maintain your skin hydration can also minimize sagging excess skin.

Despite the above measures, some patients may still find their excess skin a significant concern. Cosmetic surgery is an effective solution. Discuss with Dr Cheng to see if seeing a plastic surgeon is the right option for you.

Bariatric surgery is a highly effective intervention for obesity. However a small portion of patients may not achieve the weight loss they expected. They are called poor responder and the reason is multi-factorial. Our team will monitor your weight loss trajectory and advise you on other remedial options to achieve the best possible weight loss outcome for you.

Bariatric surgery is a major life decision and it may not suit every individual needs. Dr Cheng will discuss all options for weight loss with you after integrating your unique situation and lifestyle. You are encouraged to participate in choosing the most appropriate option to achieve the best weight loss outcome.