Bariatric surgery

Bariatrics info

• Benefits of bariatric surgery

  Bariatric surgery is a surgery that makes your stomach smaller, decreases food absorption, or both. It aids in weight loss, which can result in many benefits to your health and overall quality of life. This includes reducing or resolving obesity-related health issues such as:

  • Sleep apnoea.
  • Arthritis.
  • High blood pressure.
  • Diabetes.
  • Heart disease.
  • Poor mobility.
  • Some cancers.

  
  

• Am I a candidate for bariatric surgery?

  You may be a candidate for bariatric surgery if you have a:

  • BMI greater than 40.
  • BMI greater than 35, with one or more significant health conditions related to obesity.

  
  

• Types of bariatric surgery

  There are several types of bariatric surgery. At Buderim Private Hospital, we provide:

  • Gastric sleeve surgery: Part of the stomach is removed, including the part that produces a hormone that makes you feel hungry.
  • Gastric band surgery (lap-band surgery): An adjustable ring is put around the top part of the stomach to create a small pouch. The result will make you feel full faster and eat less food.
  • Gastric bypass surgery: A small stomach pouch is created by stapling. It is joined to the small intestine. This allows food to bypass most of the stomach, resulting in fewer calories being absorbed.
  • Mini gastric bypass surgery (Omega Loop Mini-Bypass): The stomach is divided into two sections to create a smaller stomach pouch. The smaller pouch is connected directly to the mid-section of the small intestine. This limits the amount of food you can eat, and the calories absorbed.
  • Gastric balloon surgery: Performed via endoscopy, this short-term procedure involves inserting an inflatable silicone balloon into your stomach. The balloon stays in place for six months. It works by making you feel full sooner, so you eat less.

  Many of our weight loss surgeries are performed as a keyhole procedure (several small cuts in your abdomen). Sometimes open surgery with larger cuts may be needed. There are pros and cons of each type of surgery. Your surgeon will help you decide which will best suit your personal health, weight loss goals and overall wellbeing.

• Patient journey

  What happens when you make the decision to undergo weight loss surgery? Read through our patient journey – from the time you enquire about your options through to embarking on your new life – to find out more.

  Download patient journey
  
  

• Frequently Asked Questions

  Get answers to some of the most common questions about weight loss surgery.

  Do I need a referral to see a bariatric surgeon?

  Yes. You can get a referral through your local general practitioner, which will last for 12 months. If you get a referral from a specialist, it will be valid for three months.

  Can I have weight loss surgery without private health insurance?

  Yes. You will be responsible for all costs associated with the procedure and care. You may be able to use your superannuation to cover the cost. Please seek independent financial advice to understand what your options are and what option suits you best.

  How much weight will I lose and at what rate should I expect to lose my excess weight?

  Weight loss is different for everyone and will depend on a number of factors. This includes:

  • What types of surgery you have.
  • Your sex, age and how much excess weight you have to lose.
  • Your dietary changes and post-surgery exercise.

  How long will it take to recover after surgery?

  Your recovery will depend on the type of weight loss surgery you have. For example, patients who undergo sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass will need two weeks off work. Patients who undergo gastric band surgery generally return to work after a week.

  Your surgeon will be able to give you more information and details about expected recovery times.

  Can I exercise after surgery?

  You should not engage in any cardio exercise for at least three weeks after your procedure. You should not engage in any weightlifting exercises for at least six weeks, and no swimming for three weeks post procedure.

  Can I fall pregnant following surgery?

  You should wait for 12 months following your weight loss surgery to fall pregnant due to rapid weight loss and changes to your body.

  Can I eat anything in moderation?

  After your stomach is healed, you may eat most foods that don’t cause discomfort. However, as you will only be able to eat a small amount, it is important to eat foods that are full of important vitamins and nutrients. Your surgeon and/or dietitian will provide information and guidance.

• Costs

  The costs of bariatric surgery depend on a number of factors, including your personal circumstances, the type of procedure you’re having and your level of private health cover.

  Contact one of our bariatric surgeons to get more information about your weight loss options and the associated costs, or to attend an information session.