Patient Journey
Before the Surgery (Pre-Op)
You will have a one-on-one consultation with your surgeon.
In person at Box Hill or East Melbourne rooms
Or via Telehealth (mobile or Zoom)
During this consultation:
Detailed history of your weight and medical background
Discussion of effective and sustainable weight-loss options
A decision may be reached during this session, or further tests may be required
Checklist Before Your Appointment
Link your bank account to Medicare for automatic rebates
Set reminders for your appointment
For Zoom Telehealth: confirm link received + app updated
During this consultation:
Current medications
Recent blood tests or CT scans
Any gastroscopy report within the last 5 years
Bring contact details of specialists (cardiologist, endocrinologist, psychiatrist, etc.)
Handy Tips:
GP Referral
Ask your GP to specify “indefinite” referral validity. Otherwise, referral is valid for 12 months and must be renewed yearly.
Questions List
Write down questions and keep them on your mobile or notebook.
Learn More Ahead
Go through our website information on treatment options and costs. Join our Facebook Support Group Find shared patient experiences, advice, videos, and outcomes.
Second Consultation
Usually the final review before surgery once all investigations are done.
Another chance to ask questions or raise concerns
Review surgery preparation (meal replacement, medications, etc.)
Private patients may choose surgery date + hospital
Confirm your decision and ensure full understanding of the procedure
Surgery Day
We understand the day can be both exciting and stressful. Preparation helps ease anxiety.
Before You Leave Home
Follow fasting instructions
Check which medications to take or avoid
What to Bring (2-night stay)
Current medications
CPAP machine (if applicable)
Drinks you prefer:
Protein powder
Pre-mixed protein drinks
Sugar-free sports drinks
Books
Mobile phone + charger / power bank
Comfortable clothing (easy to change), slippers
Toiletries
Ear plugs (for light sleepers)
Review post-op recovery information before coming in
Follow-Up After Surgery
Surgeons will review you daily until discharge
Additional doctors (peri-operative physicians) may be involved
Typical stay: 2–3 nights for gastric sleeve or gastric bypass
Sit out of bed and walk around the ward frequently
Avoid staying in bed unless unwell or exhausted
Sleeve patients may prefer warm liquids (peppermint/green tea, warm water)
Choose thin broths or soups when ordering food
Review discharge instructions
Receive discharge medications (pain, nausea) — not included in hospital cost
Request medical certificate or carer’s certificate if needed
Post-Op (Hospital Stay)
First Appointments
First surgeon appointment: within 2–3 weeks, free of charge
First dietitian appointment: included in package
Please contact us once you’re home to book your post-op appointment.
Support & Contact
Most patients recover smoothly, but contact us if you have questions.
For non-urgent issues:
info@obesity.com.au (appointments & general enquiries)
y.cheng@obesity.com.au
chiukang@obesity.com.au
For urgent matters:
Call our mobile
If unable to reach us, go to your nearest Emergency Department
Ongoing Care
Regular reviews for the first 2 years
You may contact us anytime for concerns or questions
First 2 post-op dietitian sessions are free
You may also ask your GP for a Chronic Health Care Management Plan, allowing dietitian support with little or no out-of-pocket cost after the first two visits.
