Your operation
As you approach surgery, regardless of the scale of the procedure or how favourable the predicted outcomes, not knowing what to expect can be daunting.
The following information will help with preparation for the operation, so patients and their families can manage treatment with optimism and confidence, both conducive to assisting Dr Silverman to achieve superior outcomes.
Admission
Admission for most patients will be on the day of surgery.
If you're undergoing bariatric surgery, some pre-operative preparation may be required. Dr Silverman will discuss all the requirements with you in detail in your consultation to make sure you're well prepared.
Your admission time will be confirmed at least 24 hours prior to your surgery. On the day of your procedure, we ask you to arrive in plenty of time to complete admissions paperwork. This is also a good time for you and your family to familiarise yourself with your surroundings to help you relax before surgery.
Medication
Unless otherwise instructed, medication should be taken as per normal leading up to your surgery. Please bring all medication with you, and if it's no longer required after your operation, Dr Silverman will dispose of it safely.
Visiting hours
Visiting hours are between 10.00 am and 8.00 pm, however, we recommend your visitors confirm specific times before attending. The ward staff across all facilities will do their best to accommodate visitors, but there may be times where your care will take priority, and there may be a short wait.
Pre-operative procedures
If you're undergoing bariatric surgery, preparation for surgery will begin before admission by reducing solid food in favour of liquid protein-based meal replacements. You will also receive nutrition guidance and psychological support before the day of your procedure.
Support
Family support can improve recovery time and is essential during what can be a potentially life-changing surgery.
When you wake up from bariatric or other major surgery, it's comforting to know that your loved ones are by your side. Your family members are welcome to wait on the hospital grounds during your surgery. Alternatively, there are amenities located close to our hospitals and staff can contact them as your operation comes to an end so they can be there when you wake up.
Recovery
Immediately after surgery you'll be moved to a recovery room while the anaesthetic wears off. Your blood pressure, breathing and wound will be closely monitored before you're moved to a private room where your family can visit.
In many cases, patients are likely to be awake and able to consume fluids within a few hours after weight loss surgery.
Over the next 48 hours, you'll be monitored closely. After a bariatric procedure, there will be changes to the way you eat and a consultation with the Peak nutritionist will be provided.
You'll be given a date for discharge as soon as Dr Silverman is satisfied that you're healing well and you're able to manage any changes required to your diet.
Robotic surgery
Dr Silverman is leading the way in robotic bariatric surgery. Contrary to what the name suggests, the surgeon is in full control throughout the procedure.
Robotic surgery provides greater precision, faster recovery and reduced pain for patients undergoing bariatric procedures. The undeniable benefits make this a popular choice as a weight loss procedure.
What to bring
Please leave valuables at home. While all our facilities are safe and secure, we ask that you only bring the following essentials with you:
- Comfortable clothing and sleepwear.
- Toiletries.
- Paperwork including your admissions paperwork and details of your GP.
- Details of all medication taken leading up to surgery.
- Information regarding your new meal plan.
- Meal replacement shakes for Bariatric patients.
Post-operative follow-up
If your operation is part of the Peak Program, dietary and psychological support are provided as part of your follow-up program. Appointments are made before discharge, and you'll be given milestones to work towards before you meet.