Dr. John Crock
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon

Member
Australian
Society of
Plastic Surgeons

Bariatric Surgery

Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, offers a viable solution for individuals struggling with obesity when traditional methods like diet and exercise have not been effective. This page provides an in-depth look at the various weight loss surgery options available at our Melbourne clinic, ensuring you have all the information needed to make an informed decision.

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Types of Weight Loss Surgery

At Knox Plastic Surgery, we offer several types of weight loss surgery to cater to different needs:

Gastric Sleeve

This procedure involves removing a portion of the stomach, resulting in a sleeve or tube-like structure. It helps reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness.

Gastric Band

An adjustable band is placed around the upper part of the stomach, creating a small pouch to limit food intake.

Gastric Bypass

This surgery creates a small stomach pouch and reroutes the digestive tract, leading to significant weight loss.

Bariatric Surgery

A collective term that encompasses all surgical weight loss procedures, tailored to the patient’s specific needs.

Consultation

Your consult will involve meeting with a Bariatric Surgeon who will conduct a thorough evaluation of your health and discuss your weight loss goals. We will review your medical history, perform necessary tests, and discuss the most suitable surgical options for you. This is an opportunity for you to ask any questions and understand what to expect from the procedure.

Am I a Good Candidate for Weight Loss Surgery?

Weight loss surgery is recommended for individuals with a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 35 or higher, particularly those with obesity-related health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea. Good candidates are committed to making lifestyle changes and are ready to adhere to a post-surgery plan that includes diet, exercise, and follow-up appointments.

About the Procedure

Each weight loss surgery procedure varies in technique and recovery time:

  • Gastric Sleeve Surgery: Typically performed laparoscopically, this surgery takes about 1-2 hours. Patients usually stay in the hospital for 1-2 days.
  • Gastric Band Surgery: Also minimally invasive, the procedure takes about 30-60 minutes with a short hospital stay.
  • Gastric Bypass Surgery: More complex, this surgery takes 2-4 hours and may require a hospital stay of 2-3 days.

Outcomes

Weight loss surgery can lead to significant, long-term weight loss and improvement in obesity-related conditions. Many patients experience enhanced quality of life, increased mobility, and better overall health.

Recovery & Post-Procedure

Recovery times vary depending on the type of surgery. Generally, patients can return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks. Our team will provide detailed post-operative instructions, including diet modifications, exercise recommendations, and follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure a smooth recovery.

Risks of Weight Loss Surgery

As with any surgery, there are risks involved. Common risks include infection, bleeding, and complications related to anaesthesia. Specific risks associated with weight loss surgery may include nutrient deficiencies, gastrointestinal issues, and surgical complications. Our surgeons will discuss these risks with you in detail and take every precaution to minimise them.

Weight Loss Surgery Cost

The cost of weight loss surgery varies based on the procedure and individual needs. During your consultation, we will provide a detailed breakdown of the costs involved, including surgery, hospital fees, and post-operative care.