Obesity treatments range from simple diet & exercise programs to surgical intervention.
Surgical Options
The most common weight loss (or bariatric) procedures conducted in Australia are:
Sleeve Gastrectomy
Sleeve gastrectomy, or gastric sleeve surgery, is a weight loss procedure where a large portion of the stomach is permanently removed, leaving a smaller, tube-shaped stomach. This reduces food intake and promotes weight loss. Additionally, the surgery removes the part of the stomach that produces Ghrelin, the hunger hormone, leading to a significant decrease in appetite. Patients typically experience reduced hunger and effective, long-term weight management.
Mini Gastric Bypass
Mini-Gastric Bypass, or One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass, is a weight loss surgery that creates a smaller stomach pouch and connects it to the middle section of the small intestine. This reduces food intake and alters digestion, promoting weight loss while still allowing efficient nutrient absorption.
Gastric Bypass
Gastric Bypass Surgery is an effective solution for long-term weight loss and improved health. It involves creating a smaller stomach pouch and rerouting the intestines to reduce calorie absorption, helping manage conditions like Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnoea. Brisbane Obesity Clinic provides expert care and support to help patients achieve lasting results.
Orbera
The Orbera Balloon is a non-surgical weight loss solution that helps control portion sizes and reduce food intake. A deflated silicone balloon is inserted into the stomach via gastroscopy and then filled with saline. It remains in place for six months, making patients feel full sooner and supporting weight loss.
You can read more about these procedures here: Sleeve Gastrectomy, Rouen-Y-Bypass and Gastric Balloon.
Non-surgical options:
Accelerate Program: Accelerate is a 12-week program combining expert dietary support, personalised meal plans, weight loss medications and supplements.
Orbera Balloon: a temporary non-invasive tool to help with portion control and support weight loss. It is a suitable option for individuals with a lower BMI who are aiming to lose 10–15 kg.
References
NHMRC, Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Overweight and Obesity in Adults, National Health and Medical Research Council, Australian Government, Canberra, 2003
Douketis JD, et al, Systematic review of long-term weight loss studies in obese adults: clinical significance and applicability to clinical practice. International Journal of Obesity 2005; 29:1153-67
Requested Medicare items processed for bariatric procedures 2013.