Weight Loss Surgery Werribee St Vincent’s Private Hospital
Compassionate, medically guided weight loss surgery in Werribee St Vincent’s Private Hospital
Lose Weight and Make Lasting Change with Bariatric Surgery
Weight Loss Surgery
At Northern Surgical Care, Dr Ashok Gunawardene, a registered specialist general surgeon at Werribee St Vincent’s Private Hospital, leads with 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 conjunction with the allied health team at Liora Health, we deliver a multidisciplinary approach, offering access to dietitians and psychologists to support patients before and after weight loss surgery.
What Is Weight Loss Surgery?
Weight loss surgery, also known as obesity or bariatric surgery, is a medical intervention aimed at supporting weight loss in individuals with severe obesity when diet and exercise have not provided long-term results. This is typically done by reducing stomach capacity and altering digestion to reduce calorie intake or absorption.
Obesity surgery includes a variety of procedures, including the Spatz3 adjustable balloon, sleeve gastrectomy, and gastric bypass.
Undergoing surgery may also help improve obesity-related conditions, such as type 2 diabetes or hypertension, though outcomes depend on individual factors.
To find out if you’re eligible for surgery and which procedure is best for you, a thorough medical and psychological evaluation 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 dealing with obesity-related health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnoea, chronic joint pain, or infertility.
- People for whom non-surgical weight loss methods have not produced results.
In your initial consultation, we will review your health and lifestyle goals to identify the most suitable 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 treatment involves placing a temporary balloon in the stomach to decrease its capacity, helping to reduce appetite and portion sizes. It is usually removed after 12 months.
Gastric Sleeve Surgery (Sleeve Gastrectomy)
A commonly performed weight loss surgery in Australia, this procedure reduces the stomach to a smaller, tubular shape, removing up to 90%. It is designed to limit food intake, helping you feel full quicker.
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)
Like a traditional bypass, this simplified procedure creates a long, narrow stomach pouch that connects to the middle of the small intestine, providing a quicker operation and potentially fewer complications.
In your initial consultations, the benefits and risks of each procedure, including possible surgical complications and nutritional deficiencies, will be explained thoroughly to ensure informed decision-making.
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.
Our partners at Liora Health provide comprehensive aftercare, including nutrition, nursing, and psychological support, to help you throughout 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 results differ based on the procedure, starting weight, and long-term lifestyle habits. Surgery helps with weight loss, but sustained success depends on ongoing support in diet, behaviour, and medical care.
What is the recovery time after surgery?
Recovery time depends on the procedure and individual factors. Many patients return to light activities within a few weeks, with a gradual return to normal activities. Full recovery guidelines will be given prior to 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 strive to help our patients feel relaxed by offering a judgment-free environment and approaching care with compassion.
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
Given that weight loss surgery is a major decision, it’s essential to have accurate, personalised information suited to your individual needs.
Your experience at Northern Surgical Care begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr Ashok Gunawardene in Werribee St Vincent’s Private Hospital, tailored to help you understand:
- If weight loss surgery is the appropriate choice for you.
- Which surgical or non-surgical options are most suitable for your health needs and goals.
- The possible benefits, risks, and long-term implications of each option.
- What preparation, recovery, and ongoing support could involve.
You’ll have the chance to ask questions, voice concerns, and consider your options in a supportive, judgement-free space. Book your consultation today.