Weight Loss Surgery Programs

The gastric sleeve is the most effective, permanent weight loss solution that doesn’t require rerouting your intestines. By removing a portion of the stomach, it significantly reduces hunger hormones while maintaining your normal digestive tract, leading to sustained weight loss without malabsorption issues.Unlike temporary interventions like balloons or medications, it delivers long-term success, with patients losing up to 100% of excess weight within the first year with NV Health's 1-on-1 support. With decades of clinical backing,it’s a well-established, minimally invasive procedure that transforms lives with lasting results.

• Removes a portion of the stomach to reduce eating capacity & hunger hormones
• No intestinal rerouting or malabsorption issues
• Up to 100% excess weight loss in the first year

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No, private health insurance is not a requirement for undergoing a Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy with our surgeons. We offer a variety of payment options for those without insurance. For more details on these alternatives, please reach out to NV Health.

Yes, Medicare provides partial coverage for Gastric Sleeve Surgery, also known as Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy. The specific item number for this procedure is 31575. This means that while Medicare will contribute towards the costs of your surgery, it may not cover all expenses. To understand the extent of coverage and any out-of-pocket costs you might incur, please contact our team at NV Health for detailed information and assistance.

Yes, most private health insurance covers ‘Bariatric surgery’.  However, you will need ‘Gold’ or ‘Top’ level.

Common side effects include:

1. Tummy Discomfort and Abdominal Cramping
2. Nausea and Vomiting
3. Reflux
4. Diarrhoea or Constipation

Our nurses and diet team provide guidance before and after the treatment to help minimise these side effects.

Like any medical weight loss intervention, there is a risk profile of the tool.

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The Gastric Balloon involves certain risks, including:

1. Esophageal or Gastric Ulcers
2. Gastric Outlet Obstruction
3. Perforation
4. Balloon Leak: Notify NV Health immediately if you pass blue or green urine, indicating a leak that requires urgent balloon removal.
5. Intolerance: In 2-3% of cases, severe nausea and vomiting may occur, necessitating early removal via gastroscopy (cost covered in the program).
6. Dehydration: This may require IV hydration from our NV Health nurse or a hospital visit.

It is possible to drink alcohol, but it is recommended to avoid it, along with caffeine. Alcohol and caffeine can stimulate acid secretion, which may increase the risk of heartburn. From a weight-loss perspective, it’s important to be mindful of the calories in alcohol. To stay on track with your health and weight loss goals, it may be helpful to establish clear limits when it comes to alcohol consumption.

Yes, you can exercise with the Gastric balloon. Establishing a regular, low-impact exercise routine like walking, swimming, or cycling is beneficial for enhancing weight loss and overall health. Our team at NV Health suggests a 10-minute walk after meals to aid digestion and manage blood sugar levels. However, activities like skydiving, SCUBA diving, and bungee jumping are not recommended while the Gastric Balloon is in place.

With NV Health's 12-Month Balloon Program, individuals can typically expect to lose between 20-30% of their body weight within the first year. Our multidisciplinary team provides a tailored 18-month support package, including a diet and lifestyle modification program, to help achieve your weight loss goals and sustain them long into the future.

The removal of the Gastric Balloon is performed by a Gastroenterologist using an endoscope. The process involves puncturing and deflating the balloon to drain the saline solution, then extracting the deflated balloon through the patient's mouth. This procedure is done under mild sedation.

At NV Health, the Gastric Balloon is placed during a day surgery by a Gastroenterologist. The procedure is performed endoscopically under mild sedation. The balloon, initially deflated, is positioned in the stomach using a gastroscope. Once correctly placed, it's inflated with saline solution mixed with blue dye, which helps identify any leaks. The process takes about 15 minutes. The inflated balloon, occupying the stomach's middle third, creates fullness and reduces hunger. The balloon remains inflated for up to 12 months.

There are health conditions that may disqualify someone from having a Gastric Balloon. These may include, but are not limited to:

• Hiatus hernia
• Gastrointestinal disorders
• Bleeding disorders
• Pregnacy
• Breast feeding
• Previous gastrointestinal surgeries Eg Fundoplication, LSG or Gastric bypass
• Allergies to Silicone
• BMI over 35 with co morbidities
• Severe reflux or heartburn
• Certain medical conditions that may complicate the use of Orbera Balloon.

Book a free consultation with the NV Health team to see if the Gastric Balloon is suitable for you.

No, the Gastric Balloon itself is not covered by Medicare or Private Health Insurance, but part of the hospital and anaesthetist fee for insertion and removal may be depending on your cover.

Yes, if you can't afford Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy surgery, you may apply for early access to your Superannuation funds on compassionate grounds through the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). The amount you can withdraw is limited to what is necessary for the surgery. Additionally, you might be eligible to access your spouse's Superannuation. For more information on eligibility and the application process, please contact NV Health.

Recovery time after Gastric Sleeve surgery varies per individual. Typically, most patients can resume work within 1 to 2 weeks. However, if your job involves physical labour, a 4 to 6-week recovery period is advisable, as lifting over 5 kg is not recommended for 6 weeks post-surgery. We can issue a medical certificate for your employer or to temporarily suspend a gym membership during your recovery phase.

You are encouraged to start walking as soon as you feel able after Sleeve Gastrectomy, as it aids in preventing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolisms (PEs). For more intense activities, including gym workouts, it is advisable to wait at least six weeks or longer before resuming.

Eligibility for Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy typically requires a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 35. However, exceptions may be considered for individuals with a BMI over 32 on a case-by-case basis. To begin, a referral from your General Practitioner (GP) is needed for a consultation with our surgeons. Please note, the minimum age for this surgery is 17 years. Patients under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during consultations and treatment.

Weight loss after Gastric Sleeve surgery varies, depending on factors like initial weight, post-surgery diet, and physical activity level. Typically, patients lose about one-third of their original weight within 12 to 18 months. This equates to approximately 60-70% of excess weight. However, with NV Health's support system, patients with a lower BMI have lost up to 100% excess weight in 1 year, and reaching a healthy BMI. Individual results with surgery can vary.

The average inpatient stay is 2 nights.

Yes, a pre-op diet is mandatory. Most patients will follow a meal replacement 'shake' diet for 2 weeks. For those with a BMI less than 35, our surgeon may recommend a one-week pre-op diet. The primary purpose of this diet is to reduce the size of your liver, minimising surgical risk. Our nutritionists will provide detailed instructions for the pre-op diet.

Like any surgical procedure, Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (LSG) carries some risks and potential complications. It's important to be aware of these risks and discuss them with your medical team before deciding to undergo the surgery. Here are some common risks and complications associated with LSG:

• Leaks - in rare cases leaks can occur along the suture line in the stomach.  This can lead to infection, abscess formation, and other complications. However, the risk has significantly decreased with the advances in surgical technique and post operative care.  
• Infection - Any surgery carries the risk of infection at the incision site or anywhere within the abdomen.
• Bleeding - During surgery, blood vessels may be cut, leading to bleeding. While rare, excessive bleeding may require a blood transfusion or additional surgical intervention.
• Stricture - Narrowing of the stomach opening can occur, leading to difficulty in swallowing and digestion. This may require dilation procedures to correct the issue.
• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE) - Being immobile during and after surgery can increase the risk of blood clots forming in the legs (DVT) which can potentially travel to the lungs (PE). Medications, compression stockings, and early mobilisation can help reduce this risk.  
• Nutritional deficiencies - After LSG, the reduced stomach size will limit the amount of food you can consume, which can impact nutrient intake. It is important to follow a strict post-operative diet and take recommended vitamin and mineral supplements to avoid nutritional deficiencies.
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD): LSG can sometimes worsen or cause new-onset GORD symptoms, such as heartburn and regurgitation. Medications or additional procedures may be required to manage these symptoms.

It's crucial to discuss these risks and complications with your surgeon who can provide personalised information based on your specific health conditions and medical history. Our team at NV Health will guide you through pre-operative preparation, post-operative care, and potential steps to minimise these risks to ensure a safe and successful surgery.

Gastric Sleeve surgery, or Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy, works by reducing the stomach size, which limits food intake. It also involves removing a part of the stomach that produces Ghrelin, the hormone that stimulates appetite. This dual approach helps in significantly reducing hunger and controlling food portions, leading to a typical weight loss of 50-70% of excess weight within two years post-surgery.

After Gastric Sleeve surgery, you'll follow a 6-week modified diet plan created by our dietitians. This includes:

1. First 2 weeks: Liquid-only diet.
2. Next 2 weeks: Puréed foods.
3. Following 2 weeks: Soft foods.

Post these 6 weeks, you'll gradually return to a normal diet, with increasing portion sizes to aid stomach healing.

Hair loss can occur three to five months post-Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy, affecting about 75% of patients. It's often due to rapid weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, reduced protein intake, hormonal changes, and the body's response to surgery. While it usually starts between three to four months post-surgery, this hair loss is generally temporary and resolves within a few months.

Yes, Gastric Bypass surgery is typically covered under 'Bariatric surgery' by most private health insurance plans, but it requires a 'Gold' or 'Top' level policy.

Yes, Gastric Bypass is partially covered by Medicare under the item number 31572. For details on the extent of coverage and any additional costs, please contact our team at NV Health.

Yes, if you cannot afford Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass surgery, you can apply to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) for early access to your Superannuation on compassionate grounds. The withdrawable amount is limited to the actual cost of the surgery. You might also be eligible to access your spouse's Superannuation. For more information on eligibility, contact NV Health.

Recovery time varies, but most patients can return to work within 1-2 weeks. For those with physically demanding jobs, a 6-week recovery is recommended, as lifting over 5 kg is not advised for 6 weeks post-surgery. We can issue a medical certificate for your employer or to suspend gym memberships during your recovery period.

You should start walking as soon as you feel able post-surgery to help prevent DVT or PEs. For more intense activities, like gym workouts, it's advised to wait at least six weeks.

Eligibility for Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass typically requires a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 35. Exceptions may be considered for those with a BMI over 32 on an individual basis. A referral from your General Practitioner (GP) is needed to start the process and schedule a consultation with our surgeons. The minimum age for this surgery is 17 years. Patients under 18 must have a parent or guardian accompany them during consultations and treatment.

The average inpatient stay is 2 nights.

Weight regain after bariatric surgery, such as Gastric Sleeve or Lap Band, can happen due to factors like increased portion sizes, dietary choices, certain medications, reduced physical activity, or stress. If you've experienced weight regain:

1. Post-Sleeve Surgery: We can consider converting the sleeve to a gastric bypass.
2. With a Lap Band: If it's no longer effective, it can be removed and converted into either a sleeve or a bypass.

We're here to support and explore the best solutions for your situation.

Yes, a pre-op diet is required. Most patients will follow a 2-week meal replacement 'shake' diet. For those with a BMI under 35, our surgeons may recommend a 1-week diet. This diet aims to reduce liver size, minimizing surgical risks. Our dietitians will give detailed pre-op diet instructions.

Post-Gastric Bypass, a 6-week modified texture diet is required, designed by our dietitians. It includes:

1. First 2 weeks: Fluids only.
2. Next 2 weeks: Puréed foods.
3. Final 2 weeks: Soft foods.

After this period, you'll slowly return to a normal diet, with gradually increasing portion sizes to aid in stomach healing.

Like any surgical procedure, Roux En Y Gastric Bypass carries some risks and potential complications. It's important to be aware of these risks and discuss them with your medical team before deciding to undergo the surgery. Here are some common risks and complications associated with RYGB:

• Leaks - in rare cases leaks can occur along the suture line in the stomach. This can lead to infection, abscess formation, and other complications. However, the risk has significantly decreased with the advances in surgical technique and post operative care.
• Infection - Any surgery carries the risk of infection at the incision site or anywhere within the abdomen.
• Bleeding - During surgery, blood vessels may be cut, leading to bleeding. While rare, excessive bleeding may require a blood transfusion or additional surgical intervention.
• Stricture - Narrowing of the stomach opening can occur, leading to difficulty in swallowing and digestion. This may require dilation procedures to correct the issue.
• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE) - Being immobile during and after surgery can increase the risk of blood clots forming in the legs (DVT) which can potentially travel to the lungs (PE). Medications, compression stockings, and early mobilisation can help reduce this risk.
• Nutritional deficiencies - After Gastric Bypass, the reduced stomach size will limit the amount of food you can consume, which can impact nutrient intake. It is important to follow a strict post-operative diet and take recommended vitamin and mineral supplements to avoid nutritional deficiencies.

It's crucial to discuss these risks and complications with your surgeon who can provide personalised information based on your specific health conditions and medical history. Our team at NV Health will guide you through pre-operative preparation, post-operative care, and potential steps to minimise these risks to ensure a safe and successful surgery.

Hair loss is a frequent occurrence, affecting about 75% of patients, usually three to five months post-Gastric Bypass surgery. It's often temporary, resulting from rapid weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, inadequate protein intake, hormonal changes, and stress from surgery. Most people notice hair thinning starting between three to four months after the procedure, but it typically resolves within a few months.