Obesity surgery has helped thousands of Australians manage their weight problems and their weight related illnesses.There are a range of obesity surgery options available. As with all operations for obesity, the decision to undergo surgery should not be taken lightly.

Gastric Bypass
Gastric Bypass surgery is the most frequently performed operation for obesity globally, accounting for approximately 65% of procedures undertaken on an annual basis. The surgery works by restricting food intake and by decreasing the absorption of food. Food intake is limited by a small pouch that is similar in size to the adjustable gastric band. In addition, absorption of food in the digestive tract is reduced by excluding most of the stomach, duodenum, and upper intestine from contact with food by routing food directly from the pouch into the small intestine. The ability to perform this operation laparoscopically (keyhole surgery) adds to its attractiveness and worldwide popularity.

Laparoscopic Gastric Banding
Laparoscopic gastric banding has been performed in Australia since 1992, and more than 60,000 Australian patients have experienced the benefits from this surgery. It has become the most widely used weight control surgery in the country and makes up 25% of obesity surgery operations globally per year. Laparoscopic gastric banding is usually performed through small incisions in the abdomen, using a camera. This minimally invasive surgery usually results in less discomfort and time off.

During procedure which takes about 1 hour, a band, much like a wristwatch, is fastened around the upper stomach to create a small pouch which restricts the amount of food that can be consumed.The gastric band is made from high grade medical silicon, a safe and inert material. In addition to the band, an access port, connected by tubing, is placed in the abdomen wall. This port allows for the size of the band to be increased or decreased with saline. To modify the size of the band, its inner surface can be inflated or deflated with a saline solution. The band is connected by tubing to an access port, which is placed well below the skin during surgery. After the operation, the surgeon can control the amount of saline in the band by entering the port with a fine needle through the skin.

The procedure does not involve cutting or stapling of the stomach or intestines, providing the option to reverse the treatment. One of the main reasons gastric banding is more popular than other forms of weight-loss surgery is because it can be reversed and it does not lead to deficiencies in vitamins and minerals.

As opposed to other types of weight loss surgery the lapband system is adjustable and can be easily adjusted after surgery to meet patients requirements. The diameter of the band is adjustable for a customised weight-loss rate. Your individual needs can change as you lose weight. For example, pregnant patients can expand their band to accommodate a growing fetus, while patients who aren’t experiencing significant weight loss can have their bands tightened.

Laparoscopic Sleeve (Tube) Gastrectomy/Gastroplasty
Laparoscopic gastric sleeve resection is a relatively new weight-loss procedure and another excellent option for those who would like to lose weight and reduce the physical and psychological effects of obesity. This operation involves removing 2/3rds of the stomach with a stapling device using keyhole surgery. The stomach’s capacity is reduced from 1000mls to 150-200 mls.The procedure trims off greater curve of stomach and causes profound appetite suppression and vomiting is very uncommon. The surgery is irreversible but can be converted to gastric bypass if not strong enough.