Weight Loss Surgery Epping Northern Private Hospital
Compassionate, medically guided weight loss surgery in Epping Northern Private Hospital
Lose Weight and Make Lasting Change with Bariatric Surgery
Weight Loss Surgery
Dr Ashok Gunawardene, a registered specialist general surgeon at Epping Northern Private Hospital, heads the team at Northern Surgical Care, bringing experience in obesity surgery, upper gastrointestinal surgery, and endoscopy.
Offering evidence-based treatment informed by current clinical guidelines, the practice prioritises clear communication to help patients fully understand their treatment options and care plans.
In partnership with the allied health team at Liora Health, we provide a multidisciplinary approach, including access to dietitians and psychologists, to support patients before and after weight loss surgery.
What Is Weight Loss Surgery?
Bariatric surgery, or weight loss surgery, is a medical intervention for individuals with severe obesity when non-surgical approaches like diet and exercise have failed to deliver lasting results. This may involve reducing stomach size and modifying digestion to limit calorie intake or absorption.
A variety of procedures fall under the obesity surgery category, including the Spatz3 adjustable balloon, sleeve gastrectomy, and gastric bypass.
Surgery may also lead to improvements in obesity-related conditions like type 2 diabetes or hypertension, with outcomes varying depending on individual factors.
To determine if you’re eligible for surgery and which type is best suited to your needs, a comprehensive medical and psychological assessment with a bariatric surgeon is required.
Who Is Bariatric Surgery For?
Weight loss surgery may be an option for:
- Individuals with a body mass index (BMI) above 35, or over 30 with an obesity-related health condition.
- Those affected by obesity-related health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnoea, chronic joint pain, or infertility.
- People for whom non-surgical weight loss methods have not produced results.
Your first consultation will focus on discussing your health and lifestyle goals to determine the most appropriate option for you.
Types of Obesity Surgery
Weight Loss Treatment Options
Northern Surgical Care currently offers the following weight loss procedures:
Spatz 3 Adjustable Balloon (Gastric Balloon)
This non-surgical procedure involves inserting a temporary balloon into the stomach to reduce capacity, helping to curb appetite and control portion sizes. The balloon is typically removed after 12 months.
Gastric Sleeve Surgery (Sleeve Gastrectomy)
One of the most popular weight loss procedures in Australia, this surgery reduces the stomach to a smaller, tubular shape, with up to 90% removed. It helps limit food intake, allowing you to feel full sooner.
RYGB Gastric Bypass Surgery (Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass)
This procedure reduces stomach size by creating a small pouch and rerouting part of the small intestine in a “Y” shape to limit food intake and calorie absorption, through both physical changes and hormonal alterations.
One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass (OAGB or Mini Gastric Bypass Surgery)
This simplified procedure, similar to a traditional bypass, forms a long, narrow stomach pouch linked to the middle of the small intestine, offering a shorter operating time and fewer potential complications.
The benefits and risks of each procedure, including surgical complications and nutritional deficiencies, will be carefully reviewed during your initial consultation to help you make an informed decision.
What to Expect
The Bariatric Surgery Experience
We will review your medical history, weight history, and overall health goals during your consultation. Diagnostic tests like bloodwork or an endoscopy may also be suggested to determine your suitability for surgery.
If a procedure is deemed appropriate, we will provide you with a detailed plan outlining preparation for bariatric surgery, the procedure itself, and the recovery process.
Together with Liora Health, we offer comprehensive aftercare, including nutritional, nursing, and psychological support, to aid your health journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Risks Of Weight Loss Surgery?
All surgical procedures carry inherent risks, but bariatric surgery is widely performed and backed by extensive clinical research. Dr Gunawardene prioritises careful patient selection, risk minimisation, and evidence-based techniques to ensure patient safety.
How much weight will I lose?
Weight loss outcomes are influenced by the type of procedure, starting weight, and long-term lifestyle changes. Surgery aids in weight loss, but lasting results require continuous dietary, behavioural, and medical support.
What is the recovery time after surgery?
Recovery time is influenced by the procedure and personal factors. Many patients are able to resume light activities after a few weeks, progressing back to normal activities. Comprehensive recovery guidelines will be shared before your procedure.
Why Choose Northern Surgical Care?
YOUR SAFETY IS OUR PRIORITY
Dr Ashok Gunawardene’s approach to minimising risk includes detailed pre-operative assessments, judicious procedure selection, and individually tailored surgical techniques.
JUDGEMENT-FREE ZONE
We focus on making our patients feel comfortable by fostering a judgment-free space and taking a compassionate approach to their care.
SURGICAL EXPERIENCE
Dr Ashok Gunawardene brings clinical experience from the UK, Australia, and New Zealand and is dedicated to integrating the latest scientific evidence into his practice.
MULTIDISCIPLINARY APPROACH
In weight loss surgery, we collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to provide both aftercare and lifestyle coaching for comprehensive support.
Start Your Weight Loss Journey Today
Weight loss surgery is an important decision, and it’s important to have reliable, clear information that is customised to your individual circumstances.
At Northern Surgical Care, your path starts with a detailed consultation with Dr Ashok Gunawardene in in Epping Northern Private Hospital, focused on helping you understand:
- If weight loss surgery is suitable for you.
- Which surgical or non-surgical treatments may align best with your health needs and goals.
- The potential benefits, risks, and long-term factors of each option.
- What preparation, recovery, and ongoing support might entail.
You’ll have the chance to ask questions, voice concerns, and consider your options in a supportive, judgement-free space. Book your consultation today.