How much does gastric sleeve surgery cost in Sydney?

The cost varies depending on your private health insurance cover and hospital fees. Medicare rebates apply when performed by a qualified bariatric surgeon. Contact our team for a personalised cost estimate.

How long does gastric sleeve surgery take?

The laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy typically takes 60–90 minutes under general anaesthetic.

How much weight can I lose with gastric sleeve?

Most patients lose 60–70% of their excess body weight within 12–18 months of surgery. Long-term results depend on dietary and lifestyle changes.

Gastric Sleeve Surgery Sydney | Sleeve Gastrectomy

Q: Is gastric sleeve reversible?

Gastric sleeve surgery is a permanent procedure. The removed portion of the stomach cannot be reattached. However, revision surgery to a gastric bypass is possible if needed.

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

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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.

Common Questions

Gastric Sleeve FAQ

The total cost varies depending on your private health insurance cover, hospital fees, and individual clinical requirements. Medicare rebates are available when surgery is performed by a qualified bariatric surgeon. Our team will provide a detailed, personalised cost estimate at your initial consultation.

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.

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