Introduction
Having bariatric surgery abroad doesn't mean you're on your own when you return to Ireland. The Irish healthcare system will support your ongoing care, and we remain with you for life through our virtual aftercare programme.
In this guide, I'll explain exactly how aftercare works when you return home to Ireland.
Our Ongoing Support
Virtual Aftercare Programme
After you return to Ireland, we stay in close contact:
- First Month:
- Weekly video consultations
- Daily WhatsApp availability
- Diet progression support
- Problem-solving as needed
- Months 2-12:
- Monthly video check-ins
- Blood test review
- Vitamin adjustment
- Weight progress tracking
- Long-Term:
- Quarterly calls (year 2)
- Annual follow-up (lifetime)
- Always available via WhatsApp
What This Covers
- Medical questions and concerns
- Dietary guidance
- Vitamin optimisation
- Emotional support
- Coordination with Irish doctors
Working With Your GP
Your GP's Role
After surgery, your Irish GP can provide:
- Blood tests for vitamin monitoring
- Prescriptions for vitamins and supplements
- General health monitoring
- Management of conditions (diabetes, blood pressure)
- Referrals if specialist care needed
The First Appointment
- When: Within 2-4 weeks of returning
Bring:
- Complete operation report (we provide)
- Aftercare recommendations
- Blood test schedule
- Our contact details
What to Say
> "I've had bariatric surgery with a certified surgeon in Turkey. Here's my full documentation. Can we arrange follow-up blood tests and discuss ongoing care?"
- Most GPs Are Supportive:
- They care about your health
- Professional documentation helps
- Clear guidelines make their job easier
Blood Tests
Schedule
- 3-Monthly (First Year):
- Full blood count
- Iron, ferritin, B12, folate
- Vitamin D
- Liver function
- Kidney function
- HbA1c (if diabetic)
- 6-Monthly (Ongoing):
- All of above, plus
- Calcium
- PTH (parathyroid hormone)
- Zinc, copper (post-bypass)
Getting Tests Done
- Through Your GP:
- GP orders the tests
- You attend local hospital/clinic phlebotomy
- Results go to GP
- Share results with us via WhatsApp
- Cost:
- Covered if you have Medical Card
- Otherwise, GP visit fee applies
- Lab tests usually free through public system
Vitamins and Supplements
What You'll Need (Lifelong)
| Supplement | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Bariatric multivitamin | Covers baseline needs |
| Vitamin B12 | Nerve function, energy |
| Vitamin D + Calcium | Bone health |
| Iron | Especially for women |
Access in Ireland
- Prescription Vitamins:
- Your GP can prescribe B12, D, iron, calcium
- May be covered by Medical Card
- Specialist Bariatric Vitamins:
- Celebrate, FitForMe, Bariatric Advantage
- Available online
- Cost: €30-50/month
Medical Card Coverage
If you have a Medical Card:
If You Have Problems
Minor Issues
- Common in Early Weeks:
- Nausea
- Food intolerances
- Constipation
- Fatigue
- What to Do:
- Contact us via WhatsApp
- We advise on management
- Usually resolves with guidance
When to See Your GP
- Persistent symptoms not improving
- Signs of vitamin deficiency
- Concerns about wound healing
- Need for prescription medication
Emergencies
- Go to A&E if:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Unable to keep fluids down 24+ hours
- Signs of infection (fever, spreading redness)
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
Support Resources in Ireland
Nutrition Support
- Dietitians in private practice
- Some public clinics accept post-bariatric patients
- Online nutrition consultations
Mental Health
- Your GP can refer to HSE counselling
- Private therapists
- IAPT equivalent services
Peer Support
- Facebook groups for Irish bariatric patients
- WLS Info community
- We can connect you with other Irish patients
Practical Tips from Irish Patients
1. Book Your GP Appointment Before You Travel > "I scheduled my first follow-up appointment before I even left for Turkey. That way it was sorted."2. Keep a Folder > "I put all my documents in one folder. Makes GP visits so much easier."3. Be Proactive > "Don't wait for problems. Stay on top of your blood tests and vitamins."4. Join a Support Group > "Connecting with other Irish patients who'd been through it was really helpful."5. Don't Be Afraid to Ask Questions > "Dr. Erol's team always answers my WhatsApp within hours, even months later."Frequently Asked Questions
Will my GP judge me for having surgery abroad? Most GPs are pragmatic and supportive. They want you healthy.What if my GP refuses to help? This is rare. If it happens, you can register with a different GP or contact us for guidance.Can I access public bariatric services after surgery abroad? This varies by health board. Some will provide support; others won't.How long will I need to take vitamins? Lifelong. This is essential for your health after bariatric surgery.What if I need revision surgery? We can perform revision surgery if needed. Some public hospitals may also help with complications.The Bottom Line
Returning to Ireland after surgery is straightforward. Your GP will support you, we remain available for life, and with proper care, you'll thrive.
Thousands of Irish patients have successfully navigated this path. You won't be alone.
Questions?
Have concerns about aftercare in Ireland? We're happy to discuss.
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- Email: [Contact Form]
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