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Surgery As An Option For Weight Loss

Is weight-loss surgery for you?

Bariatric surgery is often considered by individuals struggling with obesity and related health complications when other weight loss methods, such as diet, exercise, and medication, have not been successful. There are various reasons why someone is considering surgery. Here are some reasons how bariatric surgery can help manage or even resolve obesity-related conditions:

Avoid Death and Disease: Bariatric surgery significantly reduces the risk of premature death and obesity-related diseases. Research shows that it can extend life expectancy in individuals eligible for the procedure.

Improved Quality of Life: Many people experience enhanced physical, emotional, and social well-being. This includes greater mobility, higher energy levels, and increased confidence in daily activities.

Effective and Sustained Weight Loss: Unlike diets or medications, bariatric surgery provides long-term weight loss for many, helping individuals reach and maintain a healthier weight.

Improved Fertility and Reproductive Health: For those struggling with obesity-related infertility, bariatric surgery can restore hormonal balance and improve the likelihood of conception and healthier pregnancies.

Relief from Joint Pain: Weight reduction eases pressure on joints, often improving conditions like osteoarthritis and enhancing physical activity.

Better Mental Health: Many patients report reduced anxiety, depression, and stigma, along with greater self-esteem and a renewed sense of control over their lives.

Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: the procedure can prevent or improve conditions like:

  • Type 2 Diabetes: Often leads to remission or significantly better blood sugar control.
  • Heart Disease: Lowers cardiovascular risks.
  • Sleep Apnea: Resolves or reduces symptoms in most patients.

Dr Alex Craven and his team are dedicated to ensure patients understand obesity surgery and what it can and cannot do – to make an informed decision on the best options for them to achieve an optimum outcome that looks at the long-term benefits.

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Procedures and or surgeries performed by Dr Alex Craven for the treatment of Obesity, Metabolic Disease and Weight Loss:

  • Sleeve Gastrectomy

    A tube-shaped or "sleeve" stomach is created by removing a large part of it. The alters the body’s response to food and affects many of the hormones involved in body weight.

  • One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass (OAGB)

    Also known as Omega or the Mini-Gastric Bypass (MGB), is a type of bariatric surgery that combines elements of restriction and malabsorption to help patients lose weight and improve obesity-related health conditions.

  • Advanced Bariatric Endoscopy

    For the assessment or treatment of issues related to previous metabolic/bariatric surgery

  • Revisional Bariatric Surgery

    This is a highly specialised area of surgery used when patients have already had a metabolic/bariatric procedure, cancer or reflux surgery. This may be to treat obesity or to address reflux disease or other problems.

  • Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

    The stomach is divided into a small pouch and a larger section. The small pouch is connected directly to the small intestine, bypassing most of the stomach and part of the intestine. This greatly reduces appetite and the amount of food needed to feel full.

  • Combined medical and surgical obesity treatment

    Using combination medical and surgical therapy for severe obesity or obesity that is resistant to single treatment methods.

Things to consider

Why Choose Dr Alex Craven as your surgeon?

Choosing the right surgeon for bariatric surgery is a big decision. You want someone you can trust and who has the experience and care to help you on your journey. Here are 8 reasons why we think Dr Alex is the surgeon for you.

1. Approachable and Person-Centered Care

Dr Craven is known for his approachable style, which fosters open communication and a strong doctor-patient relationship. This is essential when discussing a major life change like bariatric surgery.

2. Understanding of Family Needs

Having grown up in the country and being a family man, Dr Craven understands the unique challenges faced by individuals from rural or family-oriented backgrounds. His perspective may help tailor your care plan to your lifestyle and needs.

3. Experience and Expertise

Dr Alex Craven is not only an experienced surgeon but also a mentor to others in the field. His role in teaching and training other surgeons demonstrates his expertise, leadership, and commitment to advancing surgical techniques. This ensures you are in the hands of a professional who is up-to-date with the latest innovations and practices, giving you confidence in the quality of care you’ll receive.

4. Collaborative Team Approach

Dr Craven’s patients benefit from a multidisciplinary team approach to care, with in-house dietitians, psychologists, nurses, and medical support professionals collaborating to deliver the best possible outcomes. Additionally, he shares his expertise nationwide, teaching others how to implement comprehensive patient care strategies.

5. Compassionate Care

As a practitioner who values compassion, Dr Craven is likely to provide empathetic support throughout your journey, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of bariatric surgery.

6. Accessible for Post-Operative Support

Long-term follow-up is critical in bariatric surgery to monitor progress, manage complications, and support lifestyle changes. Dr Craven’s accessible and supportive approach could make this process smoother.

7. Positive Recommendations

While testimonials aren’t allowed under AHPRA guidelines in Australia, you can enquire about his reputation within the medical community or seek advice from referring practitioners.

8. Comprehensive Patient Education

Dr Craven likely prioritises patient education, ensuring you fully understand the procedure, risks, benefits, and required lifestyle changes, empowering you to make informed decisions.

Schedule a call with our treatment coordinator for a confidential discussion on whether surgery is the best option for you.