The Journey- Being a Streamline Gastric Bypass & Band Patient

Most patients who consider bariatric surgery have normally exhausted all other weight loss methods. They have tried numerous diets and weight loss medications with no sustained improvement. They are trapped in a cycle of Yo-Yo dieting, still desperate to lose the weight and improve their quality of life.

Does this sound familiar?

If so, it may be time to consider bariatric surgery.

Your journey with us can begin in two different ways. You can attend a free, no obligation seminar or make an appointment by contacting one of our receptionists directly. At the appointment, you will be able to discuss the possibility of weight loss surgery and the options available to you.

The first stage of your journey is a hugely important step and at Streamline Surgical we understand that we will discuss openly all options available to you and suggest what the right path is for you.

Preparation for surgery…
Your multi-disciplinary team will advise you on what you need to do at the pre-assessment clinic. This normally involves going on a special pre-operative diet (largely composed of milk) and modifying your medications if required.

The surgery…
You will be admitted the day before or on the morning of your surgery. Depending on the type of surgery being performed, your length of stay may vary in the hospital. This is typically one night for a gastric band and 3 nights for a gastric bypass. It is normal for some patients to spend one night in the High Dependency Unit (HDU) for close monitoring.

After the surgery…
Immediately after the surgery, you will have some discomfort in your upper abdomen which can be controlled by pain relief. You can expect to be mobilised out of bed 4-6 hours later. You will not be able to eat or drink anything for the first 24-36 hours however you will be kept hydrated with IV fluids. Over the next few days, you will be able to start eating a liquid-based diet and after approximately 2 weeks, you will move onto bulkier food items.

Recovery…
Most patients make a very rapid and successful recovery. You will attend a follow-up appointment 4-6 weeks after your surgery to monitor your progress. If you have had a band fitted, you may require subsequent adjustment appointments to ensure the band is functioning effectively. After this, you will be seen at regular intervals during the first year with the dietician and specialist nurse. If you have any problems, you can always contact your clinic for advice.

Benefits of surgery…