MBBS, FRACS (Bariatric, Upper Gastrointestinal & General Surgeon)
Dr Alex Craven is a highly skilled general surgeon with a specialisation in obesity and upper gastrointestinal surgery. He offers consultations and performs surgeries through Advanced Surgical and Darebin Weight Loss Surgery and also serves as an Obesity and Upper Gastrointestinal Surgeon at Austin Hospital.
Born and raised in the country, Dr Craven brings a down-to-earth and approachable style to his practice, making patients feel comfortable and supported throughout their journey. A devoted family man, he balances his professional life with raising his family alongside his wife, who is a paramedic.
Dr Craven earned his medical degree from the University of Queensland and completed his general surgery training at Austin and Northern Hospitals under the Royal Australian College of Surgeons (RACS). He further honed his expertise through post-fellowship training in obesity and upper gastrointestinal surgery. Dr Craven has been recognised as a leading contributor for his ongoing support of the Bariatric Surgery Registry.
Passionate about helping patients manage obesity and its associated health conditions, Dr Craven is dedicated to improving their quality of life. At Darebin Weight Loss, he provides comprehensive, multidisciplinary obesity care, which includes supervised lifestyle interventions, obesity medication, and surgical solutions.
I focus on delivering personalised, evidence-based care in a respectful and collaborative environment. I take time to ensure each patient understands their condition and treatment options, and I support them in making informed decisions about their health.
My areas of interest include oesophagus and stomach cancer, metabolic/bariatric (weight loss) surgery, laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery, upper gastrointestinal surgery, and general surgery (such as hernia repair and gall bladder surgery, etc). I also have a particular focus on revisional bariatric procedures and minimally invasive surgical techniques.
During the initial consultation, I will take a detailed medical history, review any previous investigations or treatments, and discuss your concerns and goals. If surgery is a consideration, I’ll talk through the options, benefits, and risks, and outline the steps involved in preparing for the procedure and long-term follow-up care.
Yes, I operate in both the public and private healthcare systems. This allows patients to access care through their preferred pathway, depending on availability, insurance status, and clinical need.
I’ve undergone advanced training in bariatric surgery, including a dedicated fellowship year devoted to bariatric surgery. I perform a range of procedures, including sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass, and revision surgeries. I work as part of a multidisciplinary team that includes dietitians, psychologists, and GPs to ensure comprehensive support for patients before and after surgery. I now regularly supervise and teach other surgeons starting out in bariatric surgery, as well as teaching other doctors and allied health professionals on how to best work together in supporting patients.
Long-term care is a key part of surgical success. While some practices stop seeing after a set time, we are happy to offer long-term follow-up as a fundamental part of good care. I see patients regularly post-operatively and maintain close contact with their referring doctors and allied health providers. If patients prefer to follow up primarily with their GP, we support that, and always welcome them back if and when any issues arise. Ongoing follow-up ensures optimal outcomes and helps manage lifestyle changes and any complications that may arise.
Yes, not every patient needs surgery. In appropriate cases, we explore non-surgical options such as dietary changes, medication, behavioural strategies, and lifestyle modifications.I work with a team who can support these approaches where suitable. In particular, when it comes to medications for obesity or weight loss, patients are offered a multidisciplinary team approach to ensure safety and the best possible outcomes.
I was drawn to surgery because of its potential to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. I enjoy the combination of technical skill, problem-solving, and patient care. I’m also passionate about teaching and mentoring the next generation of surgeons.
