Bariatric Surgery Procedures Perth

Weight loss surgery can dramatically reduce the severity of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and, in many cases, lead to a complete remission of symptoms. By helping patients lose excess weight, particularly around the neck and airway, the surgery reduces airway obstruction during sleep. However, it’s important to note that results vary between individuals. Some may experience significant improvement, while others might still require additional treatments such as CPAP therapy. Consulting with your healthcare team is essential to determine the most suitable approach for your specific condition.

Bariatric surgery carries risks such as surgical complications, infection, anaesthesia risks, leaks, blood clots, nutritional deficiencies, dumping syndrome, gallstones, ulcers, and psychological and emotional changes. It’s essential to discuss these risks with your healthcare team before making a decision.

Recovery after weight loss surgery involves a hospital stay of one to three days, gradual progression from clear liquids to solid foods, management of pain and discomfort with medications, a phased increase in physical activity, regular follow-up appointments with healthcare professionals, lifelong nutritional supplement requirements to prevent deficiencies, permanent lifestyle changes including diet and exercise, and emotional support to navigate the physical and psychological adjustments associated with the procedure. It’s a gradual process that necessitates careful adherence to medical guidance and ongoing commitment to sustainable lifestyle changes for long-term success.

Weight loss surgery, or bariatric surgery, helps individuals lose weight through various mechanisms, including restriction of stomach size, malabsorption of calories and nutrients, hormonal changes that reduce appetite, improved insulin sensitivity, and long-term weight maintenance when combined with lifestyle modifications. This surgical approach is typically considered for individuals with severe obesity and significant related health issues when other weight loss methods have proven ineffective. However, its success depends on multiple factors, and it should be discussed with a healthcare professional after a comprehensive evaluation to determine the most appropriate procedure and ensure long-term success.

To decrease the risk of complications associated with weight loss surgery, it’s crucial to choose an experienced surgeon, follow preoperative preparations diligently, maintain a healthy lifestyle prior to surgery, educate yourself about the procedure, adhere to post-operative guidelines for diet and activity, stay hydrated, take prescribed medications and supplements consistently, attend regular follow-up appointments, gradually increase physical activity, seek emotional support as needed, be vigilant for potential complications, and commit to long-term lifestyle changes involving a healthier diet and regular exercise. Your proactive involvement in your recovery process and open communication with your healthcare team are pivotal in ensuring a safe and successful weight loss journey.

Some patients find that they can reduce or even stop using their CPAP machine after successful weight loss surgery, especially if their sleep apnoea symptoms improve significantly. However, others may still need to use CPAP therapy, either temporarily or long-term. It depends on how much your airway obstruction improves after surgery. Your sleep specialist will typically recommend follow-up sleep studies to assess your condition and decide the best course of action.

Before bariatric surgery, common medical tests include:

1. Physical Examination: Assessing your overall health and BMI.
2. Blood Tests: Checking blood count, liver function, lipid profile, kidney function, glucose levels, and nutritional deficiencies.
3. Imaging Studies: Evaluating the structure and condition of internal organs through ultrasound, X-rays, or upper GI series.
4. Electrocardiogram (ECG): Assessing the heart’s electrical activity for any abnormalities.
5. Pulmonary Function Tests: Evaluating lung function and identifying respiratory issues.
6. Sleep Study: Detecting sleep apnoea or other sleep-related breathing disorders.
7. Psychological Evaluation: Assessing mental health, readiness for surgery, and identifying potential psychological factors affecting success.

Please note that the specific tests may vary depending on your situation and the recommendations of your healthcare team.

Many patients begin to notice improvements in their sleep quality within a few weeks to a few months after weight loss surgery, as the body starts to shed excess fat that contributes to airway obstruction. However, the full benefits typically develop gradually over 6 to 12 months as significant and sustained weight loss occurs. It’s important to have ongoing follow-ups with your healthcare team to monitor your sleep and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.