Weight Loss Surgery

Sydney Upper GI Surgery Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery

Obesity is a complex health condition that affects many people in Australia. Weight loss surgery is an effective tool to help achieve successful long-term weight loss as part of an overall plan to manage your health. Dr Hopkins believes in a truly holistic approach to management and includes dietetic consultations as well as a lifestyle coaching and support program for all those who undergo weight loss surgery.

Understanding obesity

The term obesity refers to having an unhealthy excess of body weight and fat. Measuring Body Mass Index (BMI) is a widely accepted indicator of whether you are within a healthy weight range for your height.

Most people understand that being overweight or obese poses significant health problems. Carrying excess weight is a risk factor for many serious conditions including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, musculoskeletal conditions and some cancers. However, our ability to control our weight is not always as simple as eating less and exercising more.

Safe and sustainable weight loss treatment

As an experienced surgeon trained in bariatric (weight loss) surgery, Dr Hopkins understands the complex relationship between factors that contribute to obesity.

We know that hormonal imbalances, genetics, where you live and certain medical conditions can increase your risk of being obese so it’s important to take time to understand the underlying causes for your obesity. This is our priority when planning tailored treatments to help you lose weight safely.  

“I believe in taking a holistic approach to long-term weight loss, to ensure that a persons medical needs are met as well as making realistic and positive long-term changes to their lifestyle. Successful long-term weight loss is achieved through a partnership, by creating a compassionate and caring relationship with each person that I work with.”
— Dr Roy Hopkins

How does weight loss surgery work?

Weight loss surgery works by changing how your digestive system functions – either by limiting the size of the stomach or also bypassing a length of the intestine. Dr Hopkins will explain the different weight loss procedures at your initial consultation and recommend an option best suited to your needs.

Common procedures include:

After surgery, many factors work together to help people lose weight, including:  

  • Restricting the amount of food you can comfortably eat so you feel full on fewer calories.

  • Removing the part of the stomach that produces the hunger hormone (ghrelin).

  • Disrupting other hormones that regulate hunger and blood sugar levels (leptin and GLP-1).

  • Reducing the amount of nutrients that can be absorbed by the upper intestine.

  • Supporting healthier food choices and exercise habits.

Weight loss surgery has been performed successfully for decades. Current research is building a more complete understanding about the complex interactions between our hormones, metabolism and digestive systems – and how weight loss surgery can support people to achieve and maintain a healthier weight. 

Is weight loss surgery right for me?

Weight loss surgery is an effective treatment for people who meet certain clinical and personal criteria for weight loss treatment. It is not an easy fix and requires a long-term commitment to staying active and eating well.

Dr Hopkins understands the complex relationship many people have with their weight. He is a compassionate and approachable surgeon who will help you feel at ease while making important decisions about your health.

If you have any questions about weight loss surgery or would like to make an initial appointment to see Dr Hopkins, please get in touch.