Welcome to WestVic Surgical where you’re in safe hands

BMI calculater

MR DOURAID ABBAS M.B.CHB F.R.A.C.S.

Dr. Douraid Abbas is a highly respected endoscopy, general and bariatric surgeon renowned for his exceptional skill, compassionate patient care, and unwavering commitment to enhancing the lives of his patients. With a wealth of experience spanning over decades, Dr. Abbas has made significant contributions to the field of surgery, particularly in the areas of weight loss surgery and advanced laparoscopic procedures.

After completing his medical degree , Dr. Abbas embarked on a journey of continuous learning and specialisation. He underwent rigorous training in general surgery, mastering various surgical techniques and procedures. Recognising the pressing need for effective obesity treatment options, Dr. Abbas pursued advanced fellowship training in bariatric surgery, equipping himself with the latest surgical interventions for weight loss.

Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Abbas has remained steadfast in his dedication to delivering personalised care to each of his patients. He understands the profound impact that surgery can have on individuals and their families, and he goes above and beyond to educate his patients, address their concerns, and guide them through every step of their surgical journey. His compassionate approach, combined with his unparalleled surgical expertise, has earned him the trust and gratitude of countless patients seeking to improve their health and quality of life.

In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Abbas is deeply committed to education and mentorship.

He serves as a senior lecturer at the University of Notre Dame School of Medicine in Sydney, where he imparts his knowledge and expertise to the next generation of surgeons.

Dr. Abbas is a registered surgeon with the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) and he maintains active membership in several prestigious professional organisations, including the Obesity Surgery Society of Australia & New Zealand, General Surgeons Australia, and the

American Society for Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery. He is also a proud contributor to the Bariatric Surgery Registry, reflecting his dedication to advancing surgical practices and outcomes.

In his pursuit of excellence, Dr. Abbas continuously seeks to stay at the forefront of his field. He regularly attends conferences, workshops, and training sessions to remain abreast of the latest advancements in surgery, ensuring that his patients receive the highest standard of care available.

Outside of his professional endeavours, Dr. Abbas finds joy in spending time with his family and engaging in activities such as gardening and staying active. He is deeply grateful for the privilege of serving his patients and considers it his life’s calling to help them achieve their health and wellness goals. Mr Abbas Leading Bariatric surgeon in both Australia and internationally.

We provide the service you need, with the care and compassion you’re looking for in your medical treatment.

Our holistic approach to surgery means we are with you for every step of your journey, to ensure you feel safe, and trust you have the best care available.

OUR SERVICES

Surgical Services

In addition to weight loss (bariatric) surgery, we also provide services in other areas.

Weight Loss Surgery

Losing weight can be a challenge, and today’s over-emphasis on body image can carry great emotional pressure, not to mention the stresses of work, family and business.

Obesity Management Interest Group

An innovation of Mr Douraid Abbas, this group offers General Practitioners and Allied Health Professionals the chance to increase their knowledge about obesity treatment, providing insights into practical approaches to weight management.

Ready to book a consultation with our friendly team?

Have you booked your consultation and need to fill out the Patient Intake Form?

Would weight loss surgery benefit you?


BMI is one of the leading ways of measuring obesity. Find out your BMI and discover if you’re a candidate for surgery.
Your BMI

cm
kg
Your BMI is

Answer the questions below and we can contact you to discuss your treatment options

Tell us about any other health issues

If you do not meet the BMI or weight criteria, you still may be considered for surgery if your BMI is over 30 and you are suffering serious health problems related to obesity.

Do you have either of these serious health concerns?

Have you experienced any of the following Health Risks Associated with Obesity?

BMI is not the only criteria

Something here about lifestlye or how long you’ve been trying to lose weight and what you’ve tried.

Tell us if you any of these apply to you

What is your outlook on weightloss?

Readiness to begin your wieghtloss journey is important.

How committed are you to your weightloss journey?

Fill in your details to to have these results sent to you.

If you choose we can share information about your health, medical history and lifestyle with our team who will determine whether you are a candidate for weightloss surgery.

EFFECTIVELY TREATING OBESITY

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

YES, all patients require a referral in order to see Mr Abbas.

Fees are dependent upon whether the patient holds any concession cards, such as a Pension or Health Care Card.

Currently initial consultation fees range between $130 and $250, with a medicare rebate of $81.30.

Waiting times vary and are dependent on the nature of surgery required, the location at which the surgery is to be performed, and associated availability of theatre times and the individual circumstances of the patient eg: private/self-funded.

Yes. All fees associated with surgery will be discussed with the patient prior to any surgery.

Medicare rebates are available for all applicable billing items.

Private health funds will contribute to the cost of inpatient surgical services, depending on the level of your cover.

Yes, under the Early Release of Superannuation (ERS) program, you may be eligible to use your superannuation to cover medical expenses. SuperCare can assist with the application process if you wish.

Yes, we partner with TLC Medical Loans to provide flexible financing options for eligible patients if you wish.

A gap payment is the out-of-pocket cost that remains after Medicare or your health fund contributes their portion. This will be detailed in your quote.

Payment for your surgery must be completed at least one week before the scheduled procedure . Once you receive your detailed quote, it will outline all fees, including any gap payments. Payment deadlines and instructions will also be included in the quote.

For patients without private health insurance, the full procedure fee must be paid upfront. If you are using financing options like TLC Medical Loans or SuperCare, ensure arrangements are finalised well in advance of your surgery date.

Yes, depending on the procedure, hospital fees, anaesthetist fees, assistant surgeon and allied health services (e.g., dietitian, psychologist) are billed directly by those providers.

Yes, overseas patients (no medicare card) can use their private insurance; however, the following conditions apply:

  • Payment Requirements: Overseas patients must pay the full procedure fee upfront prior to surgery. This includes all associated costs as outlined in your quote.
  • Reimbursement: After the procedure, we will provide a detailed invoice for you to submit to your insurance provider. Reimbursement is subject to your level of cover.
  • Medicare Coverage: Medicare benefits are only available to Australian citizens, permanent residents, or individuals covered under a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement (RHCA). If you do not have a valid Medicare card, you are not eligible for Medicare benefits, and full upfront payment is required.

Important Notes:

  • Check with your overseas insurer before surgery to understand what costs they will cover and the reimbursement process.
  • Ensure you confirm the timeline for submitting claims to avoid missing reimbursement deadlines.
  • If you are eligible for an RHCA, you may receive limited Medicare benefits. However, this does not guarantee full coverage, and gap payments may still apply.

Preparations depend on the procedure. You will receive detailed pre-surgery instructions, including fasting requirements and medication adjustments.

A comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to follow-up care is essential to ensure optimal recovery and long-term health after surgery. The type and extent of care required will depend on the procedure but typically include the following:

  • Post-Operative Appointments: Regular follow-ups with your surgeon to monitor healing, address any concerns, and assess your progress.
  • Dietary Support: Working with a dietitian is crucial for surgeries like bariatric procedures to help you transition to a tailored post-operative diet, ensure adequate nutrition, and develop long-term healthy eating habits.
  • Exercise Physiology: Incorporating exercise physiology into your recovery plan helps restore mobility, strength, and fitness. An exercise physiologist will create personalised exercise routines that align with your recovery timeline and overall health goals.
    • For bariatric patients, this is particularly important for supporting weight management and improving cardiovascular health.
    • For general surgery patients, it aids in restoring physical function and preventing complications such as muscle deconditioning or stiffness.
  • Psychological Support: For surgeries involving significant lifestyle changes, such as bariatric surgery, psychological support can help manage emotional adjustments, establish sustainable habits, and address any mental health challenges.
  • Wound Care: Additional care may be necessary to ensure proper healing of surgical incisions and minimize the risk of infection.

Why is a multidisciplinary approach important?

  • It addresses all aspects of your recovery, from physical healing to emotional well-being.
  • It provides expert support tailored to your unique needs, helping you achieve the best possible outcomes.
  • It ensures long-term success by promoting healthy habits and reducing the risk of complications or recurrence.

At WestVic Surgical, we prioritise a holistic, patient centred approach to recovery, collaborating with dietitian, exercise physiologists, psychologists, and other specialists to support your journey to better health.

Eligibility depends on your BMI, associated health conditions, and previous weight loss attempts. A consultation will determine if bariatric surgery is suitable for you.

We offer gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and revision bariatric surgeries.

Revision surgery refers to a second surgical procedure performed to address complications, insufficient weight loss, or other issues following an initial surgery. This is common in bariatric procedures, where adjustments may be needed to optimise outcomes or correct problems such as weight regain or surgical complications.

At WestVic Surgical, revision surgeries are only available to insured patients. Your private health insurance must cover bariatric procedures, and you will need a referral from your GP or specialist to assess your eligibility for a revision procedure.

Important Note:
There is a  gap payment for all Bariatric surgeries  including revision surgery. This is the out-of-pocket cost not covered by your insurance or Medicare, which will need to be settled prior to the procedure. A detailed quote outlining all fees, including any gap payment, will be provided.

On average, patients lose 50–70% of their excess weight within 1–2 years. The success of weight loss depends on the type of procedure performed, adherence to post-surgery guidelines, and active participation in follow-up care with the surgeon and allied health professionals such as dietitians, exercise physiologists, and psychologists. Regular follow-ups and a multidisciplinary approach are essential for achieving and maintaining optimal results.

Our main clinic is at 102A Drummond St Nth, Ballarat Central VIC 3350. We also consult at several other locations, including:

  • Werribee
  • Williams Landing
  • Caroline Springs
  • Melton
  • Sebastopol
  • Winter Valley

How to Book:

  • Ballarat and Werribee Clinics:
    Contact us at 03 4706 1785 or email your referral to office@westvicsurgical.com.au.
  • Williams Landing (Our Medical), Caroline Springs (Our Medical), WestCare Medical Centre, Carn-Brae, and UFS Sebastopol Clinics:
    Please contact these clinics directly for bookings.
  • Active Medical in Caroline Springs:
    Appointments can be booked directly via their website at Active Medical Bookings.

Bariatric surgery requires lifelong dietary changes. Before surgery, you may need to follow a Very Low-Calorie Diet (VLCD), such as Optifast, for 2–6 weeks to improve your health and shrink your liver, making surgery safer. Post-surgery, your diet will progress through several stages:

  1. Week 0–2: Fluid diet to aid healing.
  2. Week 2–4: Pureed diet to prevent complications like nausea or vomiting.
  3. Week 4–6: Soft diet with well-chewed foods.
  4. Week 6+: Transition to solid foods in smaller portions.
    Long-term, you’ll follow a balanced diet with bariatric multivitamins. Your dietitian will guide you through every phase.

Bariatric surgery is a powerful tool for weight loss, but achieving and maintaining successful outcomes requires lifelong commitment and responsibility. The necessary lifestyle changes include:

1. Smaller Portion Sizes:
Your stomach’s reduced capacity after surgery means you will need to eat smaller, more frequent meals. Overeating can cause discomfort or complications, so it’s essential to listen to your body and stop eating when you feel full.

2. Balanced Nutrition:
Your diet must prioritise nutrient-dense foods, including lean proteins, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. Foods high in sugar, unhealthy fats, or empty calories should be avoided to prevent weight regain and ensure optimal health.

3. Daily Bariatric Multivitamins:
Nutritional deficiencies are common after bariatric surgery due to reduced food intake and absorption. Taking daily bariatric-specific multivitamins and supplements, as recommended by your healthcare team, is essential to maintain long-term health.

4. Regular Physical Activity:
Incorporating regular exercise is crucial for sustaining weight loss and improving overall fitness. An exercise physiologist can help you develop a personalised plan that gradually builds strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. Consistency is key to long-term success.

5. Hydration:
Staying hydrated is critical, but you’ll need to adjust how you drink fluids. Avoid drinking with meals to prevent overfilling your stomach and sip water consistently throughout the day.

6. Psychological Support:
Bariatric surgery brings significant lifestyle changes, and emotional well-being is just as important as physical health. Working with a psychologist can help you navigate challenges, establish healthy habits, and manage emotional eating or other behaviors that may impact your progress.

7. Maintenance and Long-Term Responsibility:

  • Accountability: Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and address any concerns. Regular check-ins with your surgeon, dietitian, and other allied health professionals ensure you stay on track.
  • Self-Monitoring: Keep a food and activity journal to maintain awareness of your habits and identify areas for improvement.
  • Consistency: Weight loss maintenance is a long-term process. Adhering to the guidelines provided by your healthcare team, even years after surgery, is vital for sustained success.

8. Avoiding Weight Regain:
While bariatric surgery can help you lose weight, it does not prevent weight regain if healthy habits are not maintained. Focus on building a sustainable lifestyle rather than relying solely on the surgery.

Patient Responsibility:
Bariatric surgery is a partnership between the patient and the healthcare team. As a patient, you are responsible for:

  • Following the prescribed dietary and lifestyle guidelines.
  • Taking supplements as directed.
  • Attending all follow-up appointments.
  • Seeking support when challenges arise.

Step 1: Obtain a Referral

A referral from your General Practitioner (GP) or specialist is required to book a consultation with Mr. Abbas. This ensures your medical history and health concerns are appropriately communicated.

Step 2: Submit Your Referral

  • For consultations at the Ballarat Clinic or Werribee Clinics, send your referral to:
  • For consultations at other clinics  in(e.g., Williams Landing, Caroline Springs, WestCare), please contact the specific clinic directly to arrange your appointment.

Step 3: Attend the First Appointment

The first appointment with Mr. Abbas is an initial consultation where:

  • You will discuss your weight loss journey, medical history, and eligibility for bariatric surgery.
  • Mr. Abbas will provide an overview of the different weight loss surgery options available, including their benefits and potential risks.
  • The team will give out Information about associated costs, the involvement of allied health professionals (e.g., dietitian, psychologists, exercise physiologists), and pre- and post-surgery requirements will be provided.
  • You will have the opportunity to ask questions and take time to consider the options with your family or partner before making a decision.

Step 4: Make a Decision

After your initial consultation, and taking the time to reflect and discuss your options with your support system (e.g., family, partner, friends). When you are ready to proceed, you can schedule a second appointment.

Step 5: Attend the Second Appointment

The second appointment is focused on:

  • A detailed discussion of the risks and benefits of the procedure.
  • Finalising your decision to proceed with surgery.
  • Booking the procedures: Both the Gastroscopy (to assess the condition of your stomach and esophagus) and the selected Weight Loss Surgery will be scheduled during this appointment.
  • Signing consent forms for both procedures.

Step 6: Complete Pre-Surgical Assessments

Before surgery, several assessments and preparations may be required:

  • Dietitian: Develop a pre- and post-surgery nutrition plan, including a Very Low-Calorie Diet (VLCD) to prepare for surgery.
  • Psychologist: Assess and support your readiness for surgery and lifestyle changes.
  • Physician: Evaluate your overall health and address any medical concerns.
  • Blood Tests : Ensure your body is ready for surgery and identify any underlying conditions(Blood test required three weeks pre bariatric surgery).
  • Sleep Apnea Study (if required): Determine if sleep apnea is present and requires management before surgery.

Step 7: Prepare for Surgery

Once all pre-surgical assessments are complete, follow the instructions provided by our team to prepare for the procedure.

Step 8: Post-Surgery Follow-Up

After surgery, follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and ensure a smooth recovery. Regular visits with allied health professionals, such as dietitians and exercise physiologists, will help maintain long-term success.

A gastroscopy is an essential diagnostic procedure performed before bariatric surgery to evaluate the health of your stomach and esophagus. It ensures that your digestive system is ready for surgery and helps identify any conditions that may need to be addressed beforehand.

Reasons for a Gastroscopy:

  1. Assess the Stomach and Esophagus:
    • Identifies conditions such as ulcers, inflammation, or other abnormalities that could complicate surgery.
    • Ensures there are no underlying issues, such as Barrett’s esophagus or severe acid reflux, which may require additional management.
  2. Confirm Suitability for Surgery:
    • Provides your surgeon with crucial information to determine the most appropriate type of bariatric surgery for your needs.
  3. Plan the Procedure:
    • Offers insight into the structure and condition of your stomach, helping the surgeon plan the procedure and reduce the risk of complications.
  4. Address Any Concerns Early:
    • If any issues are detected, such as a hiatal hernia or Helicobacter pylori infection, they can be treated before proceeding with bariatric surgery.

Why Might a Biopsy Be Taken?
During the gastroscopy, a small tissue sample (biopsy) may be taken from the stomach lining or esophagus. This is a standard practice to:

  • Detect Infections: Identify the presence of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a bacteria linked to ulcers and increased risk of complications during and after surgery.
  • Rule Out Precancerous Changes: Check for cellular changes, such as Barrett’s esophagus, which may require further attention before surgery.
  • Diagnose Inflammation or Other Conditions: Confirm or rule out gastritis or other underlying issues that could affect surgical outcomes.

What Happens If Helicobacter pylori Is Detected?
If H. pylori is found during the biopsy, a course of antibiotics may be required to eradicate the bacteria before surgery. Treating this infection is crucial as it reduces the risk of ulcers and ensures a safer surgical outcome. The antibiotics will be prescribed as part of a tailored treatment plan by your healthcare provider.

What to Expect During a Gastroscopy:

  • The procedure is minimally invasive and performed under sedation.
  • A thin, flexible tube with a camera is passed through your mouth into the stomach, allowing the surgeon to examine your upper digestive tract.
  • A biopsy is painless and does not add significant time to the procedure.
  • The entire process is typically completed within 15–30 minutes, and you can go home the same day.

Why Is This Step Important?
The gastroscopy, including the biopsy, ensures that your bariatric surgery is performed as safely and effectively as possible. By identifying and addressing potential issues such as infections, inflammation, or structural abnormalities, this step minimizes risks and enhances overall surgical outcomes.

Recovery times vary depending on the type of surgery, your overall health, and the physical demands of your job. Below are general guidelines for returning to work and resuming gym activities after surgery:

Returning to Work

  • Light or Desk-Based Work: Most patients can return to light or desk-based work within 1–3 weeks, depending on the procedure.
  • Physical Work: For jobs involving heavy lifting, prolonged standing, or other physically demanding activities, a recovery period of 3–4 weeks is usually required. Your surgeon will provide specific guidance based on your surgery and progress.

Resuming Gym Activities

  • Light Gym Activities: You can typically begin light gym exercises at 4 weeks post-surgery.
  • Full Gym Activities: More intensive exercises,  can usually be resumed at 6 weeks, provided you have no complications and your surgeon has cleared you.

General Guidelines for All Surgeries

  • Always listen to your body and avoid activities that cause discomfort.
  • Attend all follow-up appointments to assess healing and get clearance for more strenuous activities.
  • Discuss specific work or exercise concerns with your surgeon for personalised advice.

Why do I need to complete online registration before my consultation or surgery?
All new patients must complete an online registration form before their consultation or surgery. This helps us gather important personal, medical, and insurance information to streamline your care and ensure your appointments and procedures are efficient and well-prepared.

Where can I complete the online registration?
You can complete the online registration by visiting our Patient Intake Form page here: Patient Registration Form

When should I complete it?
Please complete the form at least a few days before your consultation or surgery to avoid any delays.

You should avoid driving for at least 24–48 hours after any procedure requiring sedation or general anaesthesia. For more invasive surgeries, such as bariatric or laparoscopic procedures, it may take 1–2 weeks before you can safely drive. Always consult your surgeon for personalised advice.

What factors determine when I can start driving again?

  • Anaesthesia Recovery: Ensure you are fully recovered from the effects of anaesthesia or sedation.
  • Pain Management: You must not be taking strong painkillers, which can impair your ability to drive.
  • Physical Recovery: You need to be comfortable enough to perform all driving functions, such as turning the steering wheel and reacting quickly in an emergency.
  • Medical Clearance: Always follow your surgeon’s specific recommendations.

Can I drive myself home after surgery?
No. For safety reasons, you cannot drive yourself home after surgery, particularly if you have been sedated or under general anaesthesia. You will need a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours after your procedure.