If you’ve tried changing your diet and lifestyle and still feel stuck, weight loss surgery may be an option to explore. At Brisbane Bariatric Centre, Dr Justin Greenslade offers clear guidance and medical support to help you understand what’s possible.
With three surgical weight-loss procedures available and over 20 years of experience, you’ll be guided through your options with care.
Explore a different path forward with weight loss surgery
Weight loss or obesity surgery, also formally known as bariatric surgery, is a medical option that can help people manage obesity and related health conditions when other approaches haven't delivered lasting results.
Rather than solely relying on exercise and diet, surgery works by changing how the stomach and digestive system process food. This can help reduce hunger, support smaller portions, and make sustainable weight loss more achievable over time.
This isn't a simple solution to lose weight; it's designed to create a healthier way forward with proper medical guidance.
How does bariatric surgery work?
Different procedures work in different ways, but all aim to support changes in eating behaviour and digestive response. Some procedures reduce the amount the stomach can hold, while others change how food passes through the digestive system.
These changes can:
- help you feel full sooner
- reduce appetite
- support gradual, sustained weight loss
- assist with obesity-related health conditions
Dr Greenslade will talk you through how each option works and what the changes may mean for your daily life, eating habits and recovery.
Understanding your weight loss surgery options
Different procedures work in different ways, and the most suitable option depends on your health history, weight goals, and how your body responds to changes in digestion and appetite.
At Brisbane Bariatric Centre, three bariatric procedures are commonly discussed: sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass, and single anastomosis gastric bypass. Each approach alters the digestive system differently and comes with its own considerations.
Sleeve Gastrectomy
Sleeve gastrectomy is a restrictive procedure that reduces the size of the stomach. Around two-thirds of the stomach is removed, leaving a 200ml tube-shaped stomach, often referred to as a “sleeve”.
Because the stomach holds less food, people generally feel full sooner and eat smaller portions. The surgery also affects hunger-related hormones, which may help reduce appetite and food intake over time. Sleeve gastrectomy does not involve intestinal bypass and does not include implanted devices.
Gastric bypass
This type of bypass surgery alters how food passes through the stomach and small intestine and may assist with both weight management and obesity-related conditions.
This approach combines restriction with hormonal and digestive changes that can influence appetite and food tolerance. It has a long history of use and is often considered for people with obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes or reflux.
Because digestion is altered, lifelong nutritional monitoring and supplementation are required.
Single Anastomosis Gastric Bypass
Single anastomosis gastric bypass, sometimes called a mini gastric bypass, is a less complex variation of gastric bypass. It involves one intestinal connection rather than two and may take less time to perform surgically.
This procedure alters digestion and absorption in a similar way to traditional gastric bypass, though it may carry a higher risk of reflux. For this reason, it is generally not recommended for people with existing reflux or GORD.
As with other bypass procedures, ongoing nutritional monitoring is required.
Who is weight loss surgery for?
Weight loss surgery is most commonly considered for people with a body mass index (BMI) over 40, or for those with a BMI over 35 who also have related health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
It may be an option worth exploring if you:
- have tried other approaches to weight management without seeing the health improvements you were hoping for
- are managing obesity-related health issues
- are medically assessed as suitable for surgery
Dr Greenslade considers your overall health, weight history and personal goals before discussing whether surgery may be appropriate, and which options could be considered in your circumstances.
Meet bariatric surgeon, Justin Greenslade
Dr Justin Greenslade brings years of experience and a calm, straightforward style to every appointment. He’s performed over 4,000 weight loss surgeries and has helped people from Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and regional Queensland find a healthier path.
Dr Greenslade doesn’t rush the process - he listens, answers your questions, and explains each option in plain language. His goal is to make sure you feel comfortable and confident about your choices, knowing you’ll get support from a real person, not just a name on a form.
With Dr Greenslade, you’re in the hands of someone who genuinely cares about your progress, from your first chat to your last check-in.
Frequently asked questions
There’s no single surgical option that suits everyone. The procedure that’s discussed will depend on things like your health history, any existing conditions, your eating patterns and what you’re hoping to achieve. Dr Greenslade will walk you through each option and talk openly about what may suit your situation and your weight loss goals.
Surgery is performed at Greenslopes Private Hospital and Gold Coast Private Hospital, both offering modern facilities and experienced teams to support your care from admission through to recovery.
Yes, eating habits do change after surgery. These changes are introduced step by step and supported by your care team, so you know what to expect during recovery and as you settle into longer-term patterns.
Recovery varies from person to person and depends on the type of surgery and how your body heals. Many people return to everyday activities within a few weeks, though recovery continues beyond that point as your body adjusts. During this time, support and follow-up help you understand what’s normal and when to check in.
Ongoing follow-up is an important part of bariatric care. These appointments provide an opportunity to review progress, discuss how you’re feeling and address any concerns that come up over time. Follow-up care supports both physical health and long-term outcomes.
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks to consider. These can relate to the surgery itself, recovery or longer-term nutritional changes. Dr Greenslade discusses these risks in detail during consultation, so you have a clear understanding of what applies to your situation before making any decisions.
Some bariatric procedures require ongoing vitamin and mineral supplementation due to changes in digestion and absorption. What’s required depends on the type of surgery and your individual needs, and this is explained clearly as part of the decision-making process.
Cover varies between funds and policies. Some policies include item numbers for weight loss surgery, and others list them as exclusions, so it’s worth checking your policy before booking. Common item numbers include 31575 for sleeve gastrectomy and 31572, 31581, 31584 for gastric bypass. If your policy doesn’t include the cover you need, you may need to upgrade and serve a waiting period, or consider self-funding using your superannuation.
You don’t need to have everything decided before booking a consultation. For many people, the first appointment is simply about asking questions, understanding the options and working out whether surgery is something they want to explore further.
Start your weight loss journey with Brisbane Bariatric Centre today
If you’re thinking about weight loss surgery or just want to know what’s possible, we’re here to help. Get in touch to book a chat with Dr Justin Greenslade and find out what’s right for you.
