FAQ

How much does laparoscopic banding cost?	Please contact the practice for more information about our fees for this procedure. The fee charged will cover your surgeon, anaesthetist and assistant for the operation, and follow-up visits, including band adjustment. The procedure has a Medicare item number and you will receive a Medicare rebate, as well as a rebate from your health fund, depending on your fund and level of cover.
Who is a candidate for gastric banding?	Currently, patients who are morbidly obese (BMI >35) are considered appropriate for surgery, and most likely to benefit (for information about how to calculate your BMI, please refer to "About Obesity"). It is reasonable to expect to lose about 2/3 of your excess body weight following gastric banding if you are prepared to commit to the appropriate lifestyle changes.
Where do you operate?	Both Dr Cregan & Dr Cox perform Laparoscopic Gastric Banding at Nepean Private Hospital.
Can the surgery be performed in the Public Hospital System?	Unfortunately, this is not possible at the moment. We are hoping the State Government will soon develop a pathway for obesity (bariatric) surgery to be performed in Public Hospitals
Do I need a referral from my GP?	Yes. Your GP will also be an important partner in you initial assessment and monitoring your post-operative progress.
How can I get more information?	We would like to invite you to attend one of our information nights. The doctors host these regularly at our practice. For information about dates and times, and also if you are unable to attend, or would like more information about gastric banding, please feel free to contact us. You can e-mail your questions via this website, or telephone our practice to make an appointment with one of the doctors.