Weightloss surgery is now widely used to assist patients achieve major and sustained weight control, and overcome the health consequences of morbid obesity. A holistic surgical weightloss program has been operational at the Mater Hospital since 2009, and features a true multidisciplinary team approach.
Two highly effective weightloss procedures are offered - the Gastric Band and the Sleeve Gastrectomy. Whilst both procedures control appetite by reducing hunger levels and improving portion control, the key difference is that the band achieves this using an implanted silicon prosthesis, where as the sleeve involves removal of part of the stomach to make it smaller. Each procedure has its own advantage and disadvantage profile, and every patient's medical, dietary and weightloss history is carefully taken into account when preparing recommendations on the two procedures.
Prior to surgery, all patients have consultations with the Bariatric Surgeon, a dietitian and psychologist. Additional investigations are arranged if required. The Mater provides all the necessary resources to ensure the safety of bariatric patients including intensive care, radiology, physiotherapy, and a specialised surgical ward.
