New Years Resolutions, Dr Scott Whiting

Five questions to ask before committing to bariatric surgery

Thinking about bariatric surgery? You’re not alone and it’s completely normal to have questions. Whether you’re just starting your research or preparing for a consultation, asking the right questions is one of the most important steps in your decision-making process.

Below, we answer five key weight loss surgery questions to help you feel confident and informed.

1. Am I eligible for bariatric surgery?

One of the more common questions people ask is, “Am I eligible for weight loss surgery?” Eligibility is typically based on your BMI (body mass index) and whether you have health conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnoea. However, eligibility also depends on your individual medical history and previous weight loss attempts.

Your GP or regular healthcare provider can be a great starting point. We also often hold information sessions, which may answer questions you have.

2. What are the different types of bariatric surgery?

Understanding the different types of bariatric procedures can help you make an informed choice. Here are the most common options:

Each procedure comes with different benefits and recovery expectations, which your surgeon can explain in detail.

3. Am I ready to commit to lifelong changes?

Bariatric surgery is not a quick fix – it’s a powerful tool that works best with long-term lifestyle changes. This includes healthy eating, regular physical activity, attending follow-up appointments and being open to mindset shifts around food and self-care. If you’re prepared to make lasting changes, surgery can help support your goals.

We know it can feel overwhelming when you’re faced with a decision that will affect your ongoing lifestyle. There’s a lot of questions and uncertainty that you may be experiencing but that’s why we’re here to help you navigate those feelings and help you choose the best solution for the long term.

4. What support will I need before and after weight loss surgery?

The journey doesn’t end after surgery, it’s just the beginning. Dr Scott Whiting works with a dedicated care team, including nurses and dieticians, who support you through every stage. In addition, you may be referred to trusted psychologists and exercise physiologists to help you build healthy habits and maintain your progress long term.

Following your surgery, you will receive a customised post operative diet, follow up appointments with your Dietician, follow up appointments with Dr Whiting as well ongoing follow ups with our team. Ensuring you have a dedicated, multidisciplinary team to support you is key when it comes to your post-surgery journey.

5. Have I explored all non-surgical options first?

While weight loss surgery can be highly effective, it’s usually considered after trying other methods. These can include dietary changes, exercise programs, behavioural therapy and prescription medications. Understanding your non-surgical options can give you confidence that surgery is the right next step for you – not a last resort, but a clinical solution with long-term benefits.

Still exploring your options?

Book a consultation with Dr Scott Whiting to get answers to your questions and a clear, expert-guided path forward.

Still exploring your options?

Book a consultation with Dr Scott Whiting to get answers to your questions and a clear, expert-guided path forward.

This website uses cookies for analytics and to improve web experience.