WestVic Surgical provides many services in the following areas:

Bariatric (Weight Loss) Surgery

To learn more about the weight loss surgeries performed by our surgeon Mr Douraid Abbas, visit Ballarat Bariatrics.

Breast Cancer Surgery

Many women during their life will require the removal of a lump from their breast.

Lumps can be harmless, such as a cyst, or they can be cancerous, and removal of the lumo and access to the lymphatic tissue is required.

Mr Abbas has extensive training in this type of surgery, as well as oncoplastic surgery, or breast conserving surgery, enabling the patient to retain as much of the natural breast tissue as possible.

Endoscopy (Colonoscopy & Gastroscopy)

These are common and safe procedures used to examine the health of your digestive system. These procedures can also be used as part of the treatment.

During the examination, biopsies, a small sample of tissue, may be taken – this is completely painless and safe. If necessary, some conditions may be treated through the endoscope.

It will only take 15 – 30 minutes for a thorough examination to be completed, and we will be able to discuss the results with you before you go home.

Advanced Laparoscopic (keyhole) Surgery for Gallbladder, and Hernia Management

Laparoscopic surgery, also known as keyhole surgery, is a minimally invasive technique that allows access to the interior of the body through small incisions, eliminating the need for traditional open surgery. This method is commonly used to diagnose conditions or to repair or remove problematic areas.

The benefits of laparoscopic surgery include:

  • Less pain
  • Shorter hospital stay
  • Faster recovery time
  • Smaller scars
  • Reduced risk of infection
  • More accurate diagnosis
  • Lower overall costs

At WestVic Surgical, laparoscopic surgery is used for managing hernias, including:

  • Inguinal hernias
  • Umbilical hernias
  • Incisional hernias
  • Femoral hernias

Additionally, laparoscopic surgery is utilised for gallbladder-related issues.

Keyhole Gallbladder Surgery (Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy)
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is considered the “gold standard” treatment for gallstones. This minimally invasive procedure involves removing the entire gallbladder along with any gallstones. It is the most effective treatment, as removing only the stones often results in recurrence within months or years.

Skin Cancer and Melanoma Management

Comprehensive care for skin cancer and melanoma includes the surgical excision of cancerous lesions, aesthetic flap reconstruction, and skin grafting

Carpal Tunnel Surgery

Carpal tunnel surgery is a procedure designed to relieve the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition caused by compression of the median nerve within the wrist. This condition often leads to pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers.

Benefits of Carpal Tunnel Surgery:

  • Relief from pain, numbness, and tingling
  • Improved hand strength and function
  • Quick recovery time

If left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome can lead to permanent nerve damage. Early surgical intervention ensures optimal outcomes and prevents long-term complications.

Haemorrhoid Treatment (HAL-RAR)

HAL-RAR is a minimally invasive alternative to conventional treatments and provides effective relief from all the symptoms of haemorrhoids. It is suitable for treating low to medium grade haemorrhoids, and is extremely effective in addressing the symptoms of haemorrhoidal disease.

Ready to book a consultation with our friendly team?

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do I need a referral to meet with Mr Abbas?

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.