Preparing for Bariatric Surgery

A Personalised Plan for a Safe, Confident Start

Once you and Dr Blackham decide that surgery is the right option, we’ll begin planning your tailored Surgical Care Pathway. Our team will support you in preparing both physically and emotionally so that you feel ready for this life-changing step.

Your Surgical Care Plan

We’ll work with you to:

  • Book a surgery date that fits your schedule
  • Confirm home support for your recovery
  • Ensure you have appropriate time off work (7–10 days for office-based roles)
  • Check your private health fund coverage and discuss out-of-pocket costs
  • Provide you with an Aurora Box — a supportive care package to assist in your post-op recovery

Watch Dr Ruth explain more about what to expect in Preparing for your surgery.

Pre-Surgery Checklist

To ensure a safe and smooth surgery, we’ll guide you through:

  • ✅ Pre-operative appointments with your bariatric GP and dietitian (2–3 weeks before surgery)
  • ✅ Blood tests to check liver, kidney, and nutritional status
  • ✅ Starting the VLCD (Very Low-Calorie Diet) at least 2–4 weeks pre-op depending on your BMI
  • ✅ Psychological readiness, with support from our trusted mental health professionals (if recommended)
  • ✅ Pre-surgical assessment by our physician to review your medical status and readiness
  • ✅ Submitting your completed New Patient Form prior to surgery

VLCD Guidelines Based on BMI

BMI Range VLCD Duration
30-35 Not typically required
35-40 2 weeks prior
40+ 4 weeks prior

You’ll receive detailed dietary guidance from our dietitians. Most patients use Optifast or Optislim shakes, paired with low-calorie vegetables and fluids. You can order your shakes at Cost Price Supplements using code AURORA15 for a discount.

Additional Pre-Op Tests

Depending on your history and risk factors, we may request:

  • Cardiac evaluation (ECG, stress testing) if you have risk factors
  • Sleep studies for suspected sleep apnoea
  • Upper GI endoscopy to assess for reflux or hiatal hernia
  • Liver ultrasound for fatty liver assessment
  • Imaging tests, such as chest X-ray


Mental & Emotional Preparation

Weight loss surgery brings both physical and psychological changes. We’ll help you:

  • Understand what changes to expect after surgery
  • Prepare mentally for new eating behaviours and routines
  • Address emotional triggers for eating
  • Build a strong foundation for long-term success

Optional psychology appointments are available with trusted providers like Kate Elliott (Gateway Psychological Services) to support your mindset and emotional wellbeing.


What to Expect Leading Up to Surgery

The Week Before Surgery:

  • Confirm transport and accommodation if you live regionally (you’ll need to stay in Perth for 3–4 nights post-discharge)
  • Finalise work and family leave
  • Stick to fluids the day before surgery as advised
  • Avoid food or drink after midnight the night before surgery



What to Bring to Hospital:

  • Loose, comfortable clothes (button-down tops or soft T-shirts)
  • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, face cream, lip balm)
  • CPAP machine if you use one
  • Slippers or thongs
  • Phone and charger
  • Your medications
  • Pillow from home (optional but comforting)


Aftercare & Support

Following surgery, we’ll support you with:

  • Structured follow-up appointments at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and annually
  • Ongoing access to our dietitians and support team
  • A personalised nutrition and supplement plan
  • Lifestyle advice to support long-term weight loss and prevent regain


You're Not Alone — We're With You Every Step of the Way

Preparing for bariatric surgery can feel overwhelming, but with the right plan and expert support, you can feel confident walking into surgery and excited for the journey ahead.

If you have questions or need assistance at any point, please call our team on (08) 6478 7631 or email admin@aurorabariatrics.com.au. We’re here to help.