Gastric Bypass Program

Yes, Gastric Bypass surgery is typically covered under 'Bariatric surgery' by most private health insurance plans, but it requires a 'Gold' or 'Top' level policy.

Yes, Gastric Bypass is partially covered by Medicare under the item number 31572. For details on the extent of coverage and any additional costs, please contact our team at NV Health.

Yes, if you cannot afford Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass surgery, you can apply to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) for early access to your Superannuation on compassionate grounds. The withdrawable amount is limited to the actual cost of the surgery. You might also be eligible to access your spouse's Superannuation. For more information on eligibility, contact NV Health.

Recovery time varies, but most patients can return to work within 1-2 weeks. For those with physically demanding jobs, a 6-week recovery is recommended, as lifting over 5 kg is not advised for 6 weeks post-surgery. We can issue a medical certificate for your employer or to suspend gym memberships during your recovery period.

You should start walking as soon as you feel able post-surgery to help prevent DVT or PEs. For more intense activities, like gym workouts, it's advised to wait at least six weeks.

Eligibility for Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass typically requires a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 35. Exceptions may be considered for those with a BMI over 32 on an individual basis. A referral from your General Practitioner (GP) is needed to start the process and schedule a consultation with our surgeons. The minimum age for this surgery is 17 years. Patients under 18 must have a parent or guardian accompany them during consultations and treatment.

The average inpatient stay is 2 nights.

Weight regain after bariatric surgery, such as Gastric Sleeve or Lap Band, can happen due to factors like increased portion sizes, dietary choices, certain medications, reduced physical activity, or stress. If you've experienced weight regain:

1. Post-Sleeve Surgery: We can consider converting the sleeve to a gastric bypass.
2. With a Lap Band: If it's no longer effective, it can be removed and converted into either a sleeve or a bypass.

We're here to support and explore the best solutions for your situation.

Yes, a pre-op diet is required. Most patients will follow a 2-week meal replacement 'shake' diet. For those with a BMI under 35, our surgeons may recommend a 1-week diet. This diet aims to reduce liver size, minimizing surgical risks. Our dietitians will give detailed pre-op diet instructions.

Post-Gastric Bypass, a 6-week modified texture diet is required, designed by our dietitians. It includes:

1. First 2 weeks: Fluids only.
2. Next 2 weeks: Puréed foods.
3. Final 2 weeks: Soft foods.

After this period, you'll slowly return to a normal diet, with gradually increasing portion sizes to aid in stomach healing.

Like any surgical procedure, Roux En Y Gastric Bypass carries some risks and potential complications. It's important to be aware of these risks and discuss them with your medical team before deciding to undergo the surgery. Here are some common risks and complications associated with RYGB:

• Leaks - in rare cases leaks can occur along the suture line in the stomach. This can lead to infection, abscess formation, and other complications. However, the risk has significantly decreased with the advances in surgical technique and post operative care.
• Infection - Any surgery carries the risk of infection at the incision site or anywhere within the abdomen.
• Bleeding - During surgery, blood vessels may be cut, leading to bleeding. While rare, excessive bleeding may require a blood transfusion or additional surgical intervention.
• Stricture - Narrowing of the stomach opening can occur, leading to difficulty in swallowing and digestion. This may require dilation procedures to correct the issue.
• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE) - Being immobile during and after surgery can increase the risk of blood clots forming in the legs (DVT) which can potentially travel to the lungs (PE). Medications, compression stockings, and early mobilisation can help reduce this risk.
• Nutritional deficiencies - After Gastric Bypass, the reduced stomach size will limit the amount of food you can consume, which can impact nutrient intake. It is important to follow a strict post-operative diet and take recommended vitamin and mineral supplements to avoid nutritional deficiencies.

It's crucial to discuss these risks and complications with your surgeon who can provide personalised information based on your specific health conditions and medical history. Our team at NV Health will guide you through pre-operative preparation, post-operative care, and potential steps to minimise these risks to ensure a safe and successful surgery.

Hair loss is a frequent occurrence, affecting about 75% of patients, usually three to five months post-Gastric Bypass surgery. It's often temporary, resulting from rapid weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, inadequate protein intake, hormonal changes, and stress from surgery. Most people notice hair thinning starting between three to four months after the procedure, but it typically resolves within a few months.