Weight loss surgery is an invasive technique performed on morbidly obese individuals. Typically they have struggled with their weight their whole life and have failed to lose weight using the conventional methods of healthy eating and exercise.

Gastric bypass surgery has been performed for over 35 years. The surgery has both a restrictive and malabsorptive element. Firstly the stomach size is reduced thereby limiting the amount of food the stomach can comfortably hold. The new stomach is then attached part way down the small intestine thereby reducing the number of calories absorbed by the body.

A newer procedure that restricts the amount of food the stomach holds is called Lap Band Surgery. A small silicone band is placed around the upper part of the stomach thereby restricting the amount of food consumed. It also works by tricking the body into thinking it is full. The advantages of this procedure is it does not involve cutting or stapling of the stomach or small intestine and it necessary the band can be removed. As a result, patient recovery time is shorter as this procedure is done via keyhole surgery.

Every surgeon will have their own protocol which they recommend for their patients following weight loss surgery. The protocol will vary depending on the type of surgery performed as well as the surgeons training and clinical experience with other patients who have had the surgery.

The most important time following your weight loss surgery is the first month or so. As mentioned above, your surgeon will provide you with a prescribed food plan. The following are general principles for all types of weight loss surgery.

The first day will involve consuming clear fluids such as water, black tea or coffee. Day 2- 14 involves "full fluids" which includes things such as milk, milkshakes, thin smoothies, thin and strained soups and high protein supplements.

Week 3-5 generally involves a pureed diet plan such as yoghurt, reduced fat ricotta or cottage cheese, mashed potatoes, pureed fruit and vegetables and blended meat, chicken and fish.

The first 1 ½ months are the toughest. The foods will not be what you are used to. It will be important to plan your meals and to have your partner or support people around to encourage you during this time.

The timing of introducing solid foods varies from surgeon to surgeon as described above. The most common time period is at around the 5 or 6 week stage post weight loss surgery. Starting solid foods means you will return to eating "normal consistency food." However, because you have made the commitment to yourself and your surgeon you will be eating "healthy foods." The quantity of food consumed is significantly smaller, being smaller portions at regular periods during the day. It is important that you fully chew your food and eat slowly. Drinking a daily amount of 2-3 of liquid is important. Water is recommended. If considering "soft drinks" they should be low calorie.

The surgery for weight loss enable the individual the tools to be able to restrict the amount of food consumed. The food plan that is followed afterwards is a key element in obtaining a successful outcome and regaining your shape and enjoying life to the full.