Melbourne Gastric Sleeve Resources
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Transform Your Life with Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Melbourne
Take back control of your health and happiness. Connect with Melbourne's top AHPRA-registered bariatric surgeons for life-changing weight loss surgery from $15,000-$25,000.
Join thousands of Melbourne patients who've lost 60-70% excess weight and reversed obesity-related conditions like diabetes, sleep apnoea, and hypertension.
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Quick Answer
How much does gastric sleeve surgery cost in Melbourne?
$15,000-$25,000 total cost in Melbourne. With private health insurance, expect $5,000-$10,000 out-of-pocket. Medicare provides a $1,500-$2,000 rebate for eligible patients.
- • Surgeon fees: $8,000-$12,000
- • Hospital fees: $5,000-$10,000
- • Anesthetist fees: $2,000-$3,000
- • 12-month waiting period for insurance coverage
What is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Gastric sleeve surgery (sleeve gastrectomy) is the most popular weight loss surgery in Melbourne and across Australia. During the procedure, surgeons remove approximately 80% of your stomach, leaving a thin, sleeve-shaped stomach about the size of a banana.
This smaller stomach restricts the amount of food you can eat and significantly reduces production of the hunger hormone ghrelin. The result is earlier satiety (feeling full), reduced appetite, and substantial weight loss of 60-70% of excess body weight within 12-18 months.
Why Melbourne Patients Choose Gastric Sleeve
- Most effective long-term solution: Proven 60-70% excess weight loss with proper adherence to dietary guidelines
- Faster recovery than gastric bypass: Most Melbourne patients return to desk work within 2-3 weeks
- Improves obesity-related conditions: Type 2 diabetes remission, improved blood pressure, sleep apnoea resolution
- No ongoing adjustments needed: Unlike gastric band, no fills or adjustments required after surgery
Compare with Other Procedures
Not sure if gastric sleeve is right for you? Compare it with other weight loss surgery options:
Gastric Sleeve Cost in Melbourne
Transparent pricing breakdown for Melbourne patients
Total cost for gastric sleeve surgery in Melbourne
Eligible patients can claim approximately $1,500 Medicare rebate on surgeon fees. Check eligibility with your GP.
Cost Breakdown by Melbourne Hospital
Epworth Freemasons & The Avenue
Premium inner Melbourne facilities
Higher-end pricing but excellent facilities, central locations, and experienced surgeon teams.
Epworth Eastern & Cabrini Malvern
Eastern suburbs locations
Mid-range pricing with excellent reputations and convenient for Eastern suburbs patients.
Western Private & Outer Suburbs
Footscray, Frankston, Clayton
More affordable options without compromising on quality or safety standards.
Private Health Insurance Coverage
With Gold-level private health insurance (Bupa, Medibank, HCF, NIB), your out-of-pocket costs can be significantly reduced:
With Insurance
Out-of-pocket gap payment
- ✓ Hospital fees covered
- ✓ Theatre fees covered
- ✓ Medicare rebate included
- âš Surgeon gap fees apply
Self-Funded
Full cost, payment plans available
- • No waiting period
- • Choose any Melbourne surgeon
- • Finance options available
- • Medicare rebate still applies
Instant Cost Calculator
Get your personalized cost estimate in 30 seconds
Payment Plans & Financing
Many Melbourne gastric sleeve surgeons and clinics offer flexible payment options:
Mac Credit / Zip Money
Medical financing with interest-free periods available. Spread costs over 12-60 months.
SuperCare
Early release of superannuation on medical grounds. Requires specialist approval and ATO application.
Surgeon Payment Plans
Some Melbourne surgeons offer in-house payment plans. Ask during your consultation.
Top Gastric Sleeve Surgeons in Melbourne
AHPRA-registered bariatric surgeons across Melbourne
What to Look for in a Melbourne Gastric Sleeve Surgeon
Essential Qualifications:
- ✓ AHPRA registration (current and active)
- ✓ FRACS (Fellow of Royal Australasian College of Surgeons)
- ✓ Specialist bariatric surgery training
- ✓ Member of bariatric surgical associations
Experience Matters:
- ✓ 100+ gastric sleeve procedures performed
- ✓ Low complication rates
- ✓ Positive patient reviews
- ✓ Operates at accredited hospitals
Melbourne Hospital Locations
Inner Melbourne
Epworth Freemasons (East Melbourne), The Avenue Hospital (Windsor), St Vincent's Private (Fitzroy)
Excellent public transport access, premium facilities, central location
Eastern Suburbs
Epworth Eastern (Box Hill), Cabrini Hospital (Malvern), Knox Private (Wantirna)
Convenient for Box Hill, Glen Waverley, Ringwood, Doncaster residents
Western Suburbs
Western Private Hospital (Footscray), Sunshine Hospital
Accessible for Footscray, Werribee, Point Cook, Sunshine residents
Southern Suburbs
Jessie McPherson Private (Clayton), Frankston Private, Peninsula Private
Convenient for Dandenong, Frankston, Mornington, Moorabbin residents
consultation • Compare surgeons • No obligation
Top Gastric Sleeve Surgeons in Melbourne
AHPRA-registered, experienced bariatric specialists
Dr. Yuan Cheng
MBBS, FRACS
Experience: 15+ years
Procedures: 2,000+ gastric sleeves
Locations: Epworth Richmond, Epworth Freemasons
Rating: 5.0 (72 reviews)
Daniel Foley
MBBS, FRACS
Experience: 12+ years
Procedures: 1,800+ gastric sleeves
Locations: Epworth Richmond
Rating: 5.0 (37 reviews)
Mr. Hai T. Bui
MBBS, FRACS
Experience: 10+ years
Procedures: 1,500+ gastric sleeves
Locations: Ascot Vale, Epworth hospitals
Rating: 5.0 (28 reviews)
Free consultation • Compare surgeons • No obligation
Recovery Timeline in Melbourne
What to expect after gastric sleeve surgery
Surgery & Immediate Recovery
- • Surgery takes 2-3 hours at your Melbourne hospital
- • 1-2 nights hospital stay for monitoring
- • Clear liquids only, walk within 4-6 hours
- • Pain managed with medication
First Week at Home
- • Rest at home, light walking encouraged
- • Liquid diet only (protein shakes, broths, water)
- • Attend follow-up with Melbourne surgeon or nurse
- • No lifting, no strenuous activity
Transition Phase
- • Progress to pureed and soft foods
- • Return to desk work (most Melbourne patients)
- • Gentle exercise (walking 20-30 minutes daily)
- • Follow Melbourne dietitian's guidelines
Full Recovery
- ✓ Return to regular solid foods (small portions)
- ✓ Resume normal activities and work
- ✓ Start regular exercise program
- ✓ 6-week follow-up with Melbourne surgeon
Melbourne Support Resources
Dietitian Support
Access Medicare-rebated dietitian appointments across Melbourne to help with meal planning and nutrition.
Support Groups
Join Melbourne bariatric support groups for advice, motivation, and connection with other patients.
Melbourne Patient Success Stories
Real results from gastric sleeve surgery in Melbourne
Melbourne Patient
Eastern Suburbs
"My experience at one of Melbourne's leading bariatric centers was excellent. The multidisciplinary team provided comprehensive support throughout my journey. Post-surgery, I've achieved significant weight loss and dramatic improvements in my health markers."
Melbourne Patient
Western Suburbs
"Choosing a Melbourne hospital close to home made my recovery easier. The quality of care was outstanding and the results have been life-changing. My sleep quality has improved dramatically and I have much more energy for daily activities."
Melbourne Patient
Inner Melbourne
"The convenience of having surgery at a centrally-located Melbourne facility made the process easier. My surgeon was thorough and the post-operative care has been excellent. My health markers have improved significantly and I feel much better overall."
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100+ Questions Answered
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gastric sleeve surgery in Melbourne
How much does gastric sleeve cost in Melbourne?
Gastric sleeve surgery in Melbourne typically costs $15,000-$25,000. This includes surgeon fees ($8,000-$12,000), hospital fees ($5,000-$9,000), and anaesthetist fees ($2,000-$4,000). With private health insurance, out-of-pocket costs can be reduced to $5,000-$12,000. Medicare rebates of approximately $1,500 are available for eligible patients.
Who are the best gastric sleeve surgeons in Melbourne?
Melbourne has numerous experienced AHPRA-registered bariatric surgeons operating at major hospitals including Epworth Freemasons, The Avenue Hospital, Cabrini Malvern, Epworth Eastern, and St Vincent's Private. The best surgeon for you depends on your location, insurance coverage, and specific needs. All qualified bariatric surgeons in Melbourne must be Fellows of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) with additional bariatric training.
What is the recovery time for gastric sleeve surgery in Melbourne?
Recovery from gastric sleeve surgery typically involves 1-2 nights in hospital, 2-3 weeks off work for desk jobs (4-6 weeks for physical jobs), and 4-6 weeks until full recovery. Most Melbourne patients can return to light activities within 2 weeks. Your surgeon will provide specific guidelines based on your individual healing progress.
Does Medicare cover gastric sleeve surgery in Melbourne?
Yes, Medicare provides rebates for gastric sleeve surgery if you meet eligibility criteria (BMI over 40, or BMI over 35 with obesity-related conditions). Medicare rebates approximately $1,500 for surgeon fees and $300-$600 for anaesthetist fees. However, Medicare doesn't cover the full cost. Private health insurance with Gold hospital cover significantly reduces out-of-pocket expenses.
Which Melbourne hospitals perform gastric sleeve surgery?
Major Melbourne hospitals performing gastric sleeve surgery include:
- • Epworth Freemasons (East Melbourne)
- • The Avenue Hospital (Windsor)
- • Cabrini Hospital (Malvern)
- • Epworth Eastern (Box Hill)
- • St Vincent's Private Hospital (East Melbourne)
- • Western Private Hospital (Footscray)
- • Jessie McPherson Private (Clayton)
- • Knox Private Hospital
- • Frankston Private Hospital
All are accredited and equipped for laparoscopic bariatric surgery.
What weight loss can I expect from gastric sleeve in Melbourne?
Gastric sleeve patients in Melbourne typically lose 60-70% of their excess weight within 12-18 months. For example, if you're 50kg overweight, you can expect to lose 30-35kg. Most weight loss occurs in the first 6 months. Long-term success depends on following dietary guidelines, regular exercise, and attending follow-up appointments with your Melbourne bariatric team.
Am I eligible for gastric sleeve surgery in Melbourne?
You may be eligible for gastric sleeve surgery if you meet these criteria:
- • BMI over 40, OR
- • BMI over 35 with obesity-related health conditions (type 2 diabetes, sleep apnoea, hypertension, joint problems)
- • Previous unsuccessful attempts at weight loss through diet and exercise
- • Committed to long-term lifestyle changes
- • No medical contraindications
Your Melbourne surgeon will assess your individual circumstances during consultation.
Can I travel from regional Victoria to Melbourne for gastric sleeve?
Yes, many regional Victorian patients travel to Melbourne for gastric sleeve surgery due to the larger number of experienced surgeons and advanced facilities. Plan to stay in Melbourne for 3-7 days post-surgery. Pre-operative appointments can often be done via telehealth. Many Melbourne surgeons offer ongoing telehealth follow-ups for regional patients. Consider accommodation near your chosen hospital and have a support person for travel home.
Compare Other Procedures in Melbourne
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70-80% weight loss, excellent for diabetes. $18k-30k in Melbourne.
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See All OptionsBook Your consultation
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What to Expect
- Connect with AHPRA-registered Melbourne surgeons within 24 hours
- Personalised cost quote including Medicare rebates and insurance
- No obligation consultation at a Melbourne hospital near you
- Expert guidance on eligibility, recovery, and results
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Trusted Australian Healthcare Resources
Medical Disclaimer & Compliance
This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Individual results may vary. Gastric sleeve surgery carries risks and benefits which should be discussed with qualified healthcare professionals. All procedures must be performed by AHPRA-registered surgeons in accredited facilities.
This website connects patients with qualified bariatric surgeons in Melbourne. We are not a medical practice and do not provide medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals before making medical decisions. Information current as of 2025.
Evidence-Based Information
Registry Data & Evidence
Based on data from the Australian & New Zealand Bariatric Surgery Registry (ANZBSR):
Source: Australian & New Zealand Bariatric Surgery Registry (ANZBSR) 2023 Annual Report. Data securely housed at Monash University and supported by ANZMOSS and Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS).
Australian Clinical Standards
All procedures meet stringent Australian medical guidelines and regulatory requirements:
MBS items 31569, 31572, 31575, and 31581 provide rebates for patients with BMI 40+ or BMI 35+ with significant comorbidities (diabetes, cardiovascular disease). All practitioners must be registered with the Bariatric Surgery Registry.
Surgery recommended for individuals with BMI >35 kg/m² regardless of comorbidities, and should be considered for metabolic disease with BMI 30-34.9 kg/m² when non-surgical methods fail.
Australian & New Zealand Metabolic and Obesity Surgery Society maintains minimum training standards and a National Framework for public bariatric surgery using the Edmonton Obesity Scoring System (EOSS).
National Health and Medical Research Council evidence-based guidelines for management of overweight and obesity in adults, adolescents, and children in Australia.
Regulatory Oversight: All surgeons listed are registered with AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) and must meet standards set by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) and ANZMOSS.
Medical Evidence & Sources
All information is based on Australian clinical guidelines, government health resources, and peer-reviewed medical research.
Primary Clinical Sources:
- Australian & New Zealand Bariatric Surgery Registry (ANZBSR) - 2023 Annual Report covering 120,000+ procedures since 2009. Data housed at Monash University.
- ANZMOSS (Australian & New Zealand Metabolic and Obesity Surgery Society) - National Framework and minimum training standards for bariatric surgery.
- Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) - Professional standards and surgeon qualification requirements.
- Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) 2025 - Items 31569, 31572, 31575, 31581 for bariatric surgery rebates.
- NHMRC Clinical Practice Guidelines (2013) - National Health and Medical Research Council evidence-based guidelines for obesity management.
- ASMBS/IFSO Guidelines (2022) - International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders clinical recommendations.
- AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) - Surgeon registration and regulatory oversight.
- Australian Department of Health - Government health resources and obesity treatment pathways.
Supporting Research:
Additional data from peer-reviewed journals including Obesity Surgery, JAMA Surgery, The Lancet, and publications indexed in PubMed and Cochrane Library databases.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with qualified, AHPRA-registered healthcare professionals before making decisions about weight loss surgery. Individual results may vary based on personal health factors and adherence to post-surgical protocols.