Weight Loss Surgery Sydney

Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Sydney's most trusted laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy — 20,000+ successful procedures by Dr Oliver Florica FRACS.

Dr Florica discussing gastric sleeve surgery with a patient
The Procedure

What Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Gastric sleeve surgery (sleeve gastrectomy) is a minimally invasive procedure that permanently reduces the size of the stomach by approximately 75–80%.

By reshaping the stomach into a narrow tube or "sleeve", the procedure reduces the amount you can eat at one time and significantly lowers levels of the hunger hormone ghrelin — leading to reduced appetite and significant, sustained weight loss.

All procedures are performed laparoscopically (keyhole surgery), meaning smaller incisions, less pain, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

Procedure time: 60–90 minutes  |  Hospital stay: 2–3 days  |  Return to work: 2–3 weeks

Why Patients Choose the Sleeve

Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery

⚖️

Significant Weight Loss

Most patients lose 60–70% of their excess body weight within 12–18 months, with many achieving a healthy BMI long-term.

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Improves Health Conditions

Gastric sleeve often leads to remission or significant improvement of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnoea, and joint pain.

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Simpler Than Bypass

No rerouting of the intestine — the sleeve is a single, straightforward procedure with a favourable risk profile and excellent outcomes.

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Faster Recovery

Laparoscopic technique means most patients are walking the day after surgery and returning to normal activities within 2–3 weeks.

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Reduced Hunger

Removal of the fundus (where most ghrelin is produced) significantly reduces appetite, making it easier to maintain a healthy diet.

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Medicare Rebates

Medicare rebates are available for gastric sleeve surgery when performed by a qualified surgeon like Dr Florica FRACS. Private health insurance may cover hospital fees.

Candidacy

Am I Eligible for Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Gastric sleeve surgery is generally considered for adults who meet the following criteria:

  • ✓BMI of 40 or above (or BMI 35+ with an obesity-related health condition)
  • ✓Have been unable to achieve lasting weight loss through diet and exercise
  • ✓Are committed to long-term lifestyle and dietary changes
  • ✓Do not have significant gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
  • ✓Are medically fit for general anaesthesia

The best way to determine if you're a suitable candidate is through a comprehensive consultation with Dr Keeley and Dr Florica. Every patient's situation is unique.

The Surgical Process

How the Procedure Works

1

General Anaesthetic

You will be fully asleep throughout the procedure.

2

Laparoscopic Access

Small incisions are made in the abdomen and a camera (laparoscope) is inserted.

3

Stomach Removal

Approximately 75–80% of the stomach is stapled and removed, leaving a sleeve-shaped pouch.

4

Closure & Recovery

Incisions are closed. You'll be monitored in hospital for 2–3 nights before discharge.

Cost & Payment Plan

What a Gastric Sleeve Costs

Pay in full, or spread Dr Florica’s surgeon and assistant fee of $7,800 on his in-house payment plan: $1,000 deposit, then $617 a month for 12 months.

With private health
$2,500 + excess
before surgery* · then $617 a month × 12

Anaesthetist approx. $1,500 + $1,000 surgeon deposit. Hospital billed to your fund — you pay your excess.

Or pay in full before surgery$9,300 + excess
Approx. net cost after rebatespaying in full~$6,450 + excess
Without private health
$12,750
before surgery* · then $617 a month × 12

Delmar Private approx. $10,250 (1 night) + anaesthetist approx. $1,500 + $1,000 surgeon deposit.

Or pay in full before surgery~$19,550
Approx. net cost after rebatespaying in full~$17,900
See Full Pricing & Payment Plans →

*Figures are estimates for a gastric sleeve. Hospital and anaesthetist fees are paid directly to them — the hospital is covered by private hospital insurance apart from your excess (or quoted by the hospital if you are uninsured), and the anaesthetist bills you directly. Our $1,000 deposit and monthly instalments (which include a $50 a month plan fee) cover the surgeon and assistant fee on Dr Florica’s in-house instalment plan (no third-party finance). Medicare and health fund rebates come back after surgery and are credited to your plan. Full written estimate (Informed Financial Consent) provided before any booking.

Common Questions

Gastric Sleeve FAQ

Dr Florica’s surgeon and assistant fee is $7,800, payable in full or on his in-house payment plan ($1,000 deposit, then $617 a month over 12 months). On the plan you pay about $2,500 plus your excess before surgery with private health insurance, or about $12,750 without (hospital and anaesthetist estimates, paid directly to them). Paying in full, the estimated net cost after rebates is approx. $6,450 plus excess insured or approx. $17,900 uninsured. See the pricing page for insured and uninsured estimates. A full written estimate (Informed Financial Consent) is provided before any booking.
Most patients lose 60–70% of their excess body weight within 12–18 months. Individual results vary depending on adherence to dietary guidelines, exercise habits, and follow-up support. Long-term results are best with ongoing engagement with our post-operative program.
No. Gastric sleeve surgery is a permanent procedure — the removed portion of the stomach cannot be reattached. However, revision surgery (such as conversion to a gastric bypass) is possible if clinically required in the future.
Most patients are walking the day after surgery and discharged within 2–3 days. Light activities can resume within 1–2 weeks, with return to office work typically at 2–3 weeks. Heavy physical work may require 4–6 weeks recovery.
You'll begin with fluids, progress to pureed foods, then soft foods over the first 6–8 weeks before transitioning to a normal (but smaller) diet. Our dietitian will provide detailed guidance and ongoing support throughout this period.
Yes. Because the reduced stomach capacity limits food intake, daily vitamin and mineral supplementation (including vitamin B12, iron, calcium, and vitamin D) is recommended long-term. Dr Keeley will provide a tailored supplement plan.

View all frequently asked questions →

Ready to Find Out If Gastric Sleeve Is Right for You?

Book a consultation with our team. We'll assess your individual situation and guide you through all your options.

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Related Articles

Expert guides from the Sydney Sleeve Surgery team

What Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

How sleeve gastrectomy works, what to expect, and who it's suitable for.

Diet After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Your complete dietary guide from liquid diet through to long-term eating habits.

Am I Eligible for Gastric Sleeve?

BMI criteria, health conditions, and what's assessed during your consultation.
View All Articles →