There are several weight loss surgery options available depending on your needs, general overall health, and weight loss objectives. All operations are not appropriate for all patients.
Dr Benedict Mackay offers a comprehensive range of bariatric surgical treatments. Sleeve Gastrectomy (LSG) and Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass are two of the more commonly performed bariatric procedures in Australia.
In this procedure, approximately 80% of the stomach is removed. The surgery works by restriction (smaller stomach) and complex metabolic (gastrointestinal hormonal changes). The end result is less hunger and earlier satiety/fullness with food.
The average weight loss is about 65 to 70% of excess weight over twelve to eighteen months.
Sleeve Gastrectomies are performed laparoscopically and require a two- to three-day hospital stay. Patients generally return to work within two to four weeks.
RYGB works with a more profound metabolic and restrictive component than the Sleeve Gastrectomy. Most of the stomach and part of the small intestine is completely bypassed in this procedure. Similar to the sleeve, hunger hormones are reduced and satiety hormones increased. Patients are less hungry and satiated (full) with small amounts of food.
Weight loss is significant for most patients and plateaus over twelve to eighteen months. The average weight loss is 75% of excess weight and weight loss is generally considered more durable than in Sleeve Gastrectomies.
The OAGB is also known as the ‘single loop bypass’ and the mini-bypass. It is a minimally invasive procedure performed with a laparoscopic technique.
There are basically two main steps to this operation:
This technique differs from the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, which has an extra join between the small bowel.
The OAGB typically results in 30 to 40% weight loss or up to 80% excess weight loss over a period of about 18 months. The most rapid weight loss is usually in the first 6 months. This weight loss is achieved through both the restrictive effect of the small pouch and the metabolic effect of bypassing the small intestine.
The OAGB has a good complication profile with a low complication rate of around 5%. A small proportion of those patients may require revisional surgery for bile reflux or malnutrition. A significant advantage is that the OAGB does result in a lower incidence of small bowel obstruction from internal hernia formation.
It is a non-surgical, temporary procedure where a ‘balloon’ device is placed into the stomach for 6 months. It is a relatively quick, non-surgical, endoscopic procedure. The expected weight loss is around 10 to 15kg in 6 months
The gastric balloon is inserted endoscopically through the mouth, then the oesophagus and placed directly into the stomach. It is then filled and left in situ for up to 6 months.
This system is indicated in those with a BMI of 30 and over. Importantly those who have had stomach previously may not be suitable. Also as an elective and cosmetic weight loss procedure, patients cannot access their superannuation to fund this procedure.
Procedural Steps:
One of Australia’s most highly trained and qualified bariatric surgeons, Dr Benedict Mackay combines impressive experience with a deep knowledge of modern surgical techniques and a commitment to achieving the very best outcome for patients.
Dr Benedict Mackay is based on the Sunshine Coast and operates at Sunshine Coast University Private Hospital, so patients no longer need to travel to Brisbane or beyond for exceptional gastrointestinal surgical care.
