Your Journey to a Healthier Life Starts Here
Comprehensive support, expert care, and a personalised path to long-term wellness through bariatric surgery.
Bariatric Surgery Process
Choosing bariatric surgery is a life-changing decision, and one that requires commitment, preparation, and ongoing support. At the Obesity Unit in Johannesburg, we guide you through every step of the journey with a structured, patient-centred approach. Our goal is not only to help you lose weight, but to improve your health, quality of life, and long-term wellness.
Whether you’re undergoing a gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, or SADI procedure, our comprehensive pathway ensures you are fully prepared for surgery and supported well beyond it.
Step 1: Initial Consultation
Your journey begins with a detailed consultation with our Bariatric Surgeon. We take time to:
- Review your medical history, weight loss efforts, and current medications
- Discuss your goals and expectations
- Explain the various surgical and non-surgical options available
- Identify potential risks, benefits, and suitability for surgery
This session helps us determine the best approach for your unique needs and ensures that you’re fully informed about your options.
Step 2: Multidisciplinary Assessment
If you are a surgical candidate, you’ll undergo a thorough preoperative workup with our multidisciplinary team. This may include:
- Blood tests and metabolic screening
- Nutritional evaluation and dietitian support
- Psychological assessment to ensure emotional readiness
- Assessment by our physiotherapist/exercise specialist
We use this phase to optimise your health and reduce surgical risk. You’ll also begin receiving education on postoperative nutrition, lifestyle changes, and expectations.
Step 3: Preoperative Preparation
You’ll follow a preoperative diet (usually high-protein, low-carbohydrate) to reduce surgical risks. This phase may also involve:
- Adjusting medications (especially for diabetes or hypertension)
- Ceasing smoking (mandatory at least 6 weeks before surgery)
- Starting a pre-surgery supplement plan
- Attending group or individual preparation sessions
Step 4: Surgery
Your operation will be performed by our experienced bariatric surgeon at a fully accredited surgical facility in Johannesburg. Most procedures are performed laparoscopically (minimally invasive) and typically involve:
- 1-3 nights in hospital
- Early mobilisation within 24 hours
- A safe, controlled environment with anaesthetic and nursing teams experienced in obesity care
We ensure pain control, post-op monitoring, and clear communication throughout.
Step 5: Recovery and Follow-Up
Your recovery is just as important as your surgery. After discharge, we guide you through:
- A phased diet plan (liquids → purees → soft → normal texture foods)
- Scheduled follow-up visits at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and annually thereafter
- Nutritional supplementation (e.g. multivitamins, calcium, iron, B12)
- Psychological and lifestyle support, including exercise guidance
We monitor weight loss, labs, comorbidities, and overall progress — adjusting your plan as needed.
Long-Term Support
Bariatric surgery is a powerful tool, but long-term success depends on sustained lifestyle changes. That’s why we provide ongoing access to:
- Dietitian support
- Behavioural therapy referrals
- Monitoring of nutrient levels and metabolic health
- Support groups and one-on-one coaching
- Options for body contouring or hernia repair if required post-weight loss
We’re with you for the long haul – because your success is our success.
Ready to Begin?
If you’re ready to take control of your health and commit to real change, the Obesity Unit is here to help. Book your consultation today and take the first step on your bariatric journey — with a team that’s with you every step of the way.