Gastric Sleeve Surgery Areas We Service

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Sleeve Gastrectomy

The Surgery: 

The sleeve gastrectomy, also called a vertical sleeve gastrectomy or gastric sleeve, is a procedure where about 80% of the stomach is removed, leaving a sleeve-shaped stomach. The procedure is typically performed laparoscopically, through a number of small incisions on the abdomen, under a general anaesthetic. The surgery takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. 

How does it cause weight loss? 

The sleeve gastrectomy is a restrictive procedure. By restricting the size of your stomach, the amount you can eat is limited. Additionally, the hunger-producing hormone, Ghrelin, is mainly created in the stomach. After surgery, the Ghrelin drops significantly, which reduces your food craving. 

How much weight can I expect to lose? 

Studies have found that at one year after surgery, patients have lost 68% of their excess weight. At five years after surgery, patients have lost 53.2% of their excess weight. These amounts are averages, and the amount of weight loss varies from individual to individual. 

Source: M. Golzarand et al. “Surg. Endos.”, 2017. 

How long do I need to stay in hospital? 

Typically 1 to 2 nights. You may require longer if you have a complex health history. 

Is the procedure safe? 

The sleeve gastrectomy has a low complication rate, however every surgery has risks. 

Short term risks can include: 

  • Excessive bleeding
  • Infection
  • Blood clots 
  • Stomach leaks

Long term risks can include: 

  • Reflux
  • Malnutrition
  • Hernia 
  • Vomiting 

Though it may seem daunting, the benefits of the surgery often outweigh the risks. Both risks and benefits should be assessed when considering surgery.

How much does the surgery cost? 

Information on surgery costs can be found on the Our Costs page. 

gastric sleeve surgery
The Minimiser Ring – Banded Sleeve Gastrectomy
The sleeve gastrectomy is a restrictive weight loss operation, which means the main factor to lose weight is maintaining small portion sizes. Unfortunately, the stomach has the ability to stretch, even after a sleeve gastrectomy, which can happen over time, and lead to increased portion sizes and weight gain. To prevent this from happening, a device called a Minimiser Ring can be placed in the upper part of the sleeve during surgery. It has been shown that this gives better weight loss in the long term, can have a better effect on Type II Diabetes and doesn’t contribute to reflux or heartburn. Sometimes, people with a banded sleeve can experience food getting stuck in their esophagus, especially if they have eaten quickly or larger portion sizes, so it works as a constant reminder to be mindful of your eating habits. If you are interested in a banded sleeve, we are more than happy to discuss this with you.
 
Source: JM Fink et al. “Ann. Surg.”, 2020.

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The benefits of weight loss

Excessive weight loss isn’t only about improving your appearance. It’s a life-changing step that can impact your family and social life, provide new career opportunities and improve your overall health and wellbeing.

If you’re struggling with your weight, you may be sleeping poorly, lacking energy and generally feeling sluggish. Losing your excess weight is the first step towards overcoming these issues and feeling healthier in your day-to-day life.

Being lighter gives you more energy to be active, enjoy life and do many things that may not be possible when you‘re overweight.

Losing weight is about helping your self confidence, your self esteem and more importantly…..saving your life. Our belief is to give you the best results possible to help you enjoy your life with your loved ones. And the added benefit – you’ll look good too!

You’re more than welcome to give us a call to talk through how we can help you achieve your goals. Together, we can get you on the road to better health.

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general questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you will need a referral to see Dr Puhalla. A referral from your GP is valid for 12 months, while a referral from a specialist is valid for 3 months. 

The initial consultation costs $250, with a Medicare rebate of $76. The pre-operative appointment costs $90, with a Medicare rebate of $38. You will need a valid referral to claim the Medicare rebates. 

No, weight loss surgery is not currently available in the public health system.

Yes, Dr Puhalla accepts uninsured patients. You can apply to the ATO for early release of your super, for which we can assist you. Medicare rebates are available for some fees, however you are liable for all costs.s

Unfortunately, Medicare and health fund rebates do not cover the full cost of providing you with medical care. This is because the rate at which successive governments have indexed the Medicare Schedule fees has been substantially lower than increases in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and average weekly earnings. The reality is that Medicare rebates do not cover the cost of providing you with a safe and high quality service. The fees charged by this practice have to cover all of our practice costs.

Please bring a copy of your referral, along with your personal details, including Medicare card, private health insurance, and a list of medications. You will need to fill out personal details and medical history forms on arrival.

Yes, it is essential that you see a dietitian to support you on your weight loss surgery journey. This is to ensure that you have the best possible outcome relating to your weight loss and overall health.

Dr Puhalla will discuss your options with you to help you decide the best procedure for you. Your individual preferences, lifestyle and health are considered when determining your type of surgery.

Typically, the hospital stay is one to two nights. If you are undergoing revisional surgery or have a complex medical history, you may need to stay longer.

Depending on the procedure, you will need one to two weeks off work. We can provide you with a medical certificate if required.

We recommend you start driving a week after surgery, initially limiting yourself to shorter drives before returning to normal driving. 

Current wait times are around three to four weeks for appointments and surgery bookings. We also have a cancellation list, as patients often have to move their appointments, which means you may be able to be seen sooner. Please advise our team at the time of booking if you would like to put on the cancellation list.

The entire process typically takes around 8 to 12 weeks. Depending on the investigations needed, and whether or not you have private health insurance, this may be able to be shortened to around 4 weeks. We will do our best to meet your schedule, however we recommend you allow at least 8 weeks for the entire process.

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Have questions or need to schedule an appointment? Our friendly team is here to help you on your journey towards a healthier, happier life. Contact Dr. Harald Puhalla and his staff today for world-class bariatric and general surgical care.

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ABN: 874 90 86 79 43
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Explore our site
Weight loss
General surgery
Areas We Service
Contact us
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