Weight loss surgery Perth
Weight loss surgery:
What you need to know
Bill Gong
Bariatric Surgeon Perth
Best bariatric surgeon Perth
3 reasons why you want the best bariatric surgeon
When it comes to something as life-changing as weight loss surgery, choosing the right surgeon makes all the difference.
- Experience and expertise: I bring years of specialised surgical experience, with a strong focus on bariatric and general procedures.
- A personal, compassionate approach: I believe in a down-to-earth, honest approach to care and aim to create a welcoming environment where you can trust that your health and well-being are my top priorities.
- Comprehensive support throughout your journey: Bariatric surgery is more than an operation—it’s a long-term commitment. With a dedicated allied health team and a focus on follow-up care, I make sure that you’re supported before, during and after your operation.
Eligibility weight loss surgery Perth
Am I eligible and what type of weight loss surgeries are available?
Weight loss surgery is a proven way to help people lose a significant amount of weight — often up to 70–80% of their excess weight. It’s not just about weight loss; it can also improve or even resolve health issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, and joint pain, giving you a chance to enjoy a healthier and more active life.
Am I eligible for weight loss surgery?
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a key indicator used to assess whether weight loss surgery is suitable for you.
- BMI of 30 or higher: With associated health conditions such as Type 2 diabetes or sleep apnoea, you may be eligible for surgery.
- BMI of 35 or higher: Without additional conditions, surgery might be recommended.
For people of Asian descent, eligibility may apply at lower BMI thresholds due to higher risks of weight-related health conditions. These guidelines align with recommendations from ANZMOSS (Australian and New Zealand Metabolic and Obesity Surgery Society).
Unsure about your eligibility for weight loss surgery? Fill out our eligibility form and I’ll let you know if you’re a suitable candidate.
What type of weight loss surgeries are available?
Gastric sleeve surgery
This involves removing a portion of the stomach, leaving a smaller “sleeve.” It reduces the amount of food you can eat, helps control hunger, and leads to significant weight loss.
Patients typically lose about 50–70% of their excess body weight within 12–18 months.
Gastric bypass surgery
This procedure reroutes your digestive system to bypass part of the stomach and small intestine, limiting food intake and absorption. It’s a powerful tool for weight loss and managing obesity-related conditions.
This procedure may result in a loss of 60–80% of excess body weight over a similar time frame.
What are the risks of weight loss surgery?
As with any surgery, bariatric procedures come with general risks like infection, bleeding, blood clots, and anaesthesia reactions, alongside specific weight loss surgery-related risks:
- Staple line leaks: A rare but serious complication where the surgical staples used to modify the stomach fail to seal properly.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Reduced absorption of nutrients can lead to deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, requiring lifelong supplements.
- Dumping syndrome: Symptoms like nausea, diarrhoea, or dizziness after eating, especially high-sugar foods, due to rapid emptying of the stomach. Gastric bypass patients are more prone to this because the procedure bypasses the pyloric valve, which controls the rate at which food enters the intestines.
- Bowel obstruction: Scarring or twisting of the intestine can lead to blockages that may require further surgery.
- Ulcers: Especially in gastric bypass patients, ulcers can form at the connection between the stomach and small intestine.
- Gallstones: Rapid weight loss increases the risk of developing gallstones, sometimes requiring gallbladder removal.
- Chronic nausea or vomiting: This may occur due to eating too quickly or improper dietary habits post-surgery.
- Adhesions or internal hernias: Scar tissue or hernias in the abdomen can cause pain or complications.
- Strictures: Narrowing of the stomach or bowel connection sites may cause swallowing difficulties or blockages, sometimes requiring intervention.
It’s important to weigh these risks against the potential benefits for your health and well-being.
Dr Bill Gong, Weight loss surgery Perth
Why I became a weight loss surgeon
Surgery allows me to combine hands-on skill with problem-solving — working through complex diagnoses and tailoring treatments to individual needs. I find it incredibly rewarding to see the direct impact of surgical care on someone’s health and quality of life.
As I progressed in my career, I was drawn to bariatric surgery because of the transformative outcomes it offers. Weight loss surgery isn’t just about numbers on a scale — it’s about reducing the burden of chronic illnesses, restoring mobility, and giving you a chance to thrive again. It’s a privilege to be part of that journey, guiding people towards healthier, happier lives.
Why choose me as your bariatric surgeon
My approach to patient care is built on integrity, compassion, and personalisation. Every one of you is unique, and I make sure that you feel supported and empowered throughout your journey.
Deep experience and expertise: With years of training and practice in general and bariatric surgery, I bring extensive knowledge and skills to each case.
Innovative and creative solutions: I enjoy piloting new techniques and approaches, making sure that my patients receive the most effective care possible.
Caring and down-to-earth: I aim to create a welcoming environment where patients feel comfortable and heard. I’m not a ‘suit-and-tie’ doctor—I keep things professional yet relatable.
Holistic care: I work with a dedicated allied health team to provide comprehensive pre- and post-operative support.
I’ve seen the incredible changes weight loss surgery brings to my patients’ lives. For me, it’s not just about the surgery—it’s about helping people take control of their health and find renewed confidence.