The Importance of Selecting the Right Weight Loss Bariatric Practice
Embarking on the journey of bariatric surgery is a life-changing decision that requires careful consideration and thorough research. Choosing the right bariatric practice is one of the most critical steps in ensuring a long-lasting weight loss outcome. Even though the cost of the initial operation should always be a consideration, there are many other factors to think about before committing to one bariatric service. Weight loss is a life-long battle and you deserve the best support throughout your journey. When deciding on the right practice for you, here’s some of the key aspects you should look for in a quality bariatric team.
Experienced high volume bariatric surgeon
The experience and expertise of the surgeon in a bariatric practice is crucial. High volume bariatric surgeons are experts in their field who perform a significantly higher number of bariatric procedures yearly when compared to their peers. At SGOS, we are consistently one of the leading contributors to The Bariatric Surgery Registry case numbers in Sydney, Australia. This means that an experienced bariatric surgeon is also more likely to anticipate and manage potential complications, ensuring a safer procedure and better outcomes. When evaluating a practice, look for a bariatric surgeon who are board-certified and have a proven track record of successful surgeries. Dr Cheng is an experienced Sydney based bariatric weight loss surgeon who has been accredited as a Bariatric Surgeon of Excellence in Australia.
Understand what the SRC (Surgeon of Excellence) means for your care – https://www.surgicalreview.org/patients/
Comprehensive care
As most bariatric patients will testify to, there are many challenges that lies ahead after your initial operation. Having a long term bariatric follow up program is crucial in maintaining nutritional health and sustainable weight loss. A reputable bariatric practice should offer comprehensive care that goes beyond the surgery itself. This includes pre-operative evaluations, nutritional counselling, psychological support, and long-term follow-up. Bariatric surgery is not just about reducing stomach size; it’s about making sustainable lifestyle changes, and comprehensive care ensures you have the support needed for long-term results.
Customized weight loss treatment options
Every patient is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach does not always work in bariatric surgery. The best practices offer personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific health needs, weight loss goals and lifestyle. This individualized approach increases the likelihood of achieving and maintaining weight loss. An experienced surgeon is also a bariatric specialist who is constantly up to date with all the new techniques and innovations of a fast-changing weight loss management landscape. As an accredited surgeon of excellence in Bariatrics, Dr. Cheng offers the whole range of bariatric therapies (medication, surgery – laparoscopic and robotic, endoscopic) and tailor management to your needs.
Multidisciplinary team
A successful bariatric practice should house a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including surgeons, dietitians, psychologists, specialist nurses and exercise physiologists. This team approach ensures that all aspects of your health are addressed, providing a well-rounded and supportive environment throughout your long-term weight loss journey. At SGOS, we have all aspects covered and strongly believe that there should not be any barriers in you accessing this team whenever you need us.
Access to support groups
Support groups play a vital role in the post-operative phase. They provide a platform for sharing experiences, receiving emotional support, and gaining insights from others who have undergone similar procedures. The right bariatric practice will offer or connect you with support groups that can help you stay motivated and focused on your goals. Here at SGOS, we have set up our own FACEBOOK support group where patients can have easy access to our team and share experiences of their own.
Operating in recognised high volume bariatric hospitals
The quality of the facilities where your surgery will be performed is another important consideration. State-of-the-art facilities equipped with the latest technology and adhering to strict bariatric safety standards contribute to better surgical outcomes and a more comfortable recovery process. Being in Sydney, all of our bariatric operations are done through St George Private Hospital (Centre of Excellence in Bariatric) and East Sydney Private Hospital, which are two of the largest volume bariatric centres in Australia. Similar to surgeons, high volume bariatric centres are experienced in providing you the best post operative inpatient care through strict protocol based pathways and continual push in innovation and excellence.
Proven success rates
When researching bariatric practices, look for those with proven results. High patient satisfaction, significant weight loss results, and low complication rates are indicators of a quality practice. Don’t hesitate to ask for statistics and patient testimonials. It is often also useful to utilise the bariatric forums or online testimonials to get a better feel of practices that you are planning to go with before committing.
Transparent communication
Effective communication between you and your healthcare providers is essential. The right bariatric practice will prioritize transparency, ensuring you understand the risks, benefits, and expected outcomes of the surgery. The team should be willing to answer all your questions and provide clear, honest information. It is important for you to feel completely comfortable with your surgeon and weight loss team so that you can discuss all of your issues without reservation. Building a long-term relationship together will help drive effective outcomes.
Choosing the right bariatric practice is a decision that can significantly impact your weight loss journey and overall health. By selecting the right practice for you will set yourself up for the best possible outcome. Take your time to research, meet the team, ask questions to help you find the practice that aligns with your needs and goals. Your future self will thank you.
