Dr Balalis contacts all next of kin following surgery, and updates them on your progress. He also sees all patients daily (at least) until discharge.

Hospital policy is ever-changing, and this is updated frequently on the hospital websites. The easiest way to stay up to date is to review the hospital website and to contact the hospital closer to your surgical date.

Yes, and they keep it off. Bariatric surgery is the only proven way to lose weight and keep it off. Weight regain is still possible however and a continued effort to maintain a healthy lifestyle is essential to long term results. We have a holistic team to provide patients with support for long term changes.

Current guidelines followed by Dr Balalis recommend a BMI from 30 with a medical condition related to obesity or a BMI of 35.

All patients wanting more information, should consult with Dr Balalis to discuss weight loss surgery and other options.

No, it is not your fault. Obesity is a chronic disease, that results from a complex interaction between genetics and environment. Your genetics can determine how susceptible you are to weight gain and you can not change your genetics. Surgery can assist to improve lifestyle and health.

Not after a gastric bypass. After a sleeve gastrectomy, Ibuprofen or other anti-inflammatories are OK to use, as long as it is with a PPI (acid-suppression tablet). This is because non-steroidal medication after a gastric bypass can cause ulcerations with subsequent bleeding and perforation (hole in your bowel). There are alternatives for steroidals.

Yes – Dr Balalis does not perform open bariatric surgery. He performs laparoscopic or keyhole weight loss surgery, including all revision surgeries.

No – Dr Balalis does not believe in ‘re-sleeve’ operations and is happy to discuss this further. There are more proven and durable revision surgery options available.

2 days in hospital – one night in ICU, and one night on the ward. People who work office jobs, can aim to be back at work after 2 weeks. If you have a more strenuous job, then this will mean more time off work.

6 weeks of no heavy lifting – no lifting more than 10kgs. Our exercise physiologist will tailor a plan suitable for your specific needs, to ensure you continue to exercise during this time, and into the future, for improved health and quality of life.

10-14 days following surgery is usually when you can start driving again. It is important that you are off pain medication, can slam on the brake in case of an emergency, and your insurance company are happy.

Usually 65-75% excess weight loss (difference between healthy weight and current weight), over a 2-year period. The majority of this occurs in the first 12 months.

A range of multivitamin and mineral supplements are generally required following weight loss surgery. The type and number of supplements will depend on your surgery and results of ongoing blood tests to monitor your nutritional status.

Yes, regular blood tests are needed in the first 2 years. It is important to keep on top of your blood monitoring to ensure the best result.

Dr Balalis feels passionately about the holistic and supportive team that is all under one roof at 149 Ward Street North Adelaide. Their expertise and support is what provides patients with the care and knowhow needed for good outcomes. Please come to your appointments, and also use our online support!

Only a minority of patients lose their hair, and this is particularly in the first 6-12 months. The hair loss is temporary and associated with rapid weight loss. It is important to liaise with our dietitians and medical team to ensure vitamins, minerals and supplements are optimised during this period.

Guidelines recommend 24 months after surgery as the ideal timeframe, however 12 months is a minimum recommended time frame. It is important to liaise with our experienced bariatric surgery team, as we need to monitor vitamins, minerals and supplements more closely.

Yes over time, but not to where it used to be.  Please read the article on Dr Balalis’ website regarding stretching, which is a normal process, and does not equal weight regain.

2 days in hospital – one night in ICU or HDU, and one night on the ward.  People who work office jobs, can aim to be back at work after 2 weeks.  If you have a more strenuous job, then this will mean more time off work.

No – a Gastric Sleeve and Gastric Bypass are different.  There is no ‘best surgery’, only different surgeries, with different risks and benefits.  Dr Balalis will discuss the surgical options further during a consultation.

Explore our Gastric Sleeve surgery page.

2 days in hospital – one night in ICU or HDU, and one night on the ward.  People who work office jobs, can aim to be back at work after 2 weeks.  If you have a more strenuous job, then this will mean more time off work.

No – a Gastric Sleeve and Gastric Bypass are different.  There is no ‘best surgery’, only different surgeries, with different risks and benefits.  Dr Balalis will discuss the surgical options further during a consultation.

Explore our Gastric Bypass surgery page or schedule a consultation to discuss..

Find out more about the price of Gastric Bypass surgery.

Since no incisions are made with an Endosleeve most patients can return to their normal activities within a few days. While recovery depends on each individual’s circumstances, it is recommended that you plan for at least three days of inactivity following the procedure.

An Endosleeve is a restrictive procedure meaning it will limit the amount of food that you can eat. Life-long vitamin/mineral supplementation as well as protein supplementation is also necessary due to decreased intake of food as well as limited absorption of nutrients.

Our expert dieticians will prepare post-procedure nutrition plan for you and continue to monitor your progress as part of our post-procedure support service, Post-Care-Success.

An Endosleeve uses permanent stitches that do not dissolve; however, these can be removed at a later date if required.

It is possible for the stitches to break over time if under too much tension, however this does not necessarily lead to reversal of the Endosleeve or weight gain.

If you are planning to get pregnant in the future, this should be discussed with Dr Balalis at your initial consultation.

It is normally advised that patients avoid pregnancy for at least six months following an Endosleeve procedure.

While an Endosleeve procedure is not suitable following a Gastric Bypass, it is possible to have a Transoral Outlet Reduction (TORe) using an overstitch device.

If you have previously had a Gastric Bypass and would like to discuss a Transoral Outlet Reduction, please request an appointment to discuss your options with Dr Balalis.

Research has shown that people who’ve had a gastric balloon do less well following an Endosleeve in terms of weight loss.

If you have had a gastric balloon and feel like you need additional support, please request an appointment to discuss your options with Dr Balalis.

Research has shown that people who’ve had a Lap Band do less well following an Endosleeve in terms of weight loss.

If you have had a Lap Band and feel like you need additional support, please request an appointment to discuss your options with Dr Balalis.

Read more on our Endosleeve procedure information page or schedule a consultation to discuss.

Read more about Endosleeve procedure pricing.

To be considered for the Allurion Balloon:

No prior surgery to your stomach or oesophagus.

Over the age of 18

A BMI between 27 and 40

Are not currently pregnant or breastfeeding

Are prepared to make changes

Dr Balalis will also formally assess you for all contraindications in your initial consultation and discuss risks and benefits of the procedure. Dr Balalis is very passionate about helping patients improve their health. If you do not meet the criteria for the Allurion Gastric Balloon, but your BMI sits in the obese range, Dr Balalis encourages you to consider other clinically proven options.

The Allurion Balloon (formerly the Elipse Balloon) is a soft balloon placed in your stomach. It is the first gastric balloon that requires no surgery, endoscopy, or anaesthesia for placement or removal. The balloon is placed during a brief 20-minute outpatient visit. After approximately 16 weeks, it empties and passes naturally.

The balloon takes up space in your stomach and induces weight loss by increasing satiety (fullness), delaying gastric emptying and reducing the amount of food eaten at each meal.

After approximately 16 weeks of the Allurion Program, clinical studies have demonstrated that patients lose on average 10-15% of their body weight over the 4 months of the balloon.

The patient swallows a capsule containing the deflated balloon along with a thin tube. Once the balloon is confirmed to be in your stomach via x-ray, the balloon is filled through the catheter with 550 ml of water. A second x-ray takes place to make sure the balloon is filled. The placement takes place during a 20-minute outpatient visit.

99.9% of patients are able to swallow the Allurion balloon. Dr Balalis has techniques to assist with this and can discuss this with you during your consultation.

Some people experience nausea, abdominal cramping, and occasional vomiting after balloon placement. In most cases, these symptoms are well-controlled with the commonly used medications prescribed.

Most people return to normal activity within 2-3 days, however some people may experience longer side effects. It can be a good idea to book a few days off work afterwards just in case. Medications are prescribed to assist with the management of this.

After approximately 16 weeks inside your stomach, a time-activated release valve will open, allowing the balloon to empty and pass naturally through the gastrointestinal tract without the need for a removal procedure.

Ienca, R, et.al, published in Obesity Surgery in 2020, volume 30, pages 3354 – 3362.

Following medical approval, there are no absolute dietary restrictions with the Allurion Programme. However, to maximise weight loss and comfort, our dieticians will make recommendations tailored to each patient. The Allurion Balloon must be used in conjunction with a nutrition plan.

After the Allurion Balloon passes, the Allurion Program and the related support from your healthcare team continue for one month. At the end of the Allurion Programme, you should continue your healthy lifestyle habits.

A recent clinical study has shown that, when coupled with a 16-week intensive lifestyle modification (nutrition and exercise modification), The Allurion Balloon leads to significant weight loss when compared with lifestyle modification alone.

Nausea and vomiting in the first few days after placement.

Intolerance of 2-3%, which may need endoscopic removal [1].

The risk of the balloon itself are rare (less than 1%), and these include hyper inflation or obstruction which would require intervention to remove the balloon (such as an endoscopy). Dr Balalis is a specialist bariatric surgeon and able to perform this in the rare event of it occurring [1].

Over 60,000 + patients have been treated with the Allurion Balloon and serious adverse events have been reported in 0.34% of patients.

Ienca, R, et.al, published in Obesity Surgery in 2020, volume 30, pages 3354 – 3362.

Dr George Balalis is FRACS trained and specialises in Bariatric/Weight-Loss surgery and Gastrointestinal Surgery. He believes in long term solutions for weight-loss and is able to discuss and offer a number of options for patients struggling with their weight and health. Dr George Balalis believes that the Allurion Program is a fantastic option for individuals struggling with their weight, that do not qualify for surgery or as an alternative to surgery in some cases.

Visit our Allurion Gastric Balloon page or schedule a consultation to discuss.

Read more about the price of an Allurion Gastric Balloon procedure.

Lipoedema is a chronic adipose tissue disorder, not simply excess weight gain. The abnormal fat distribution seen in lipoedema is typically symmetrical and affects the legs and sometimes the arms, while sparing the hands and feet. It is often painful, tender and prone to bruising.

Unlike obesity, lipoedema fat is resistant to diet and exercise. Many patients maintain healthy lifestyles yet continue to experience disproportionate limb enlargement and discomfort.

No. Lipoedema surgery is a specialised, medically indicated procedure performed to remove pathological adipose tissue associated with lipoedema.

The goal is not purely cosmetic contouring. Instead, the primary objectives are to reduce pain, improve mobility, decrease heaviness and support long-term function. At Morphē Clinic, lymph-sparing techniques are used to protect delicate lymphatic structures and reduce the risk of complications.

Surgery may be considered when:

• A confirmed diagnosis of lipoedema has been made
• Conservative measures such as compression therapy, exercise and dietary optimisation have been implemented
• Pain, heaviness or mobility limitations significantly affect quality of life
• Symptoms persist despite appropriate non-surgical management

Early recognition and appropriate referral are important. Timely intervention may help prevent progression and secondary lymphatic compromise.

Lipoedema is a chronic condition. Surgery does not cure the underlying predisposition, but it can significantly reduce the burden of pathological fat, relieve pain and improve functional outcomes.

Ongoing management, including compression therapy and healthy lifestyle practices, remains important after surgery.

The number of procedures depends on the severity and distribution of lipoedema. In some cases, treatment is staged to safely and effectively address multiple areas.

A personalised treatment plan is developed following comprehensive assessment at Morphē Clinic.

Recovery varies between individuals and depends on the extent of treatment. Most patients can expect:

• Swelling and bruising for several weeks
• Compression garment use for a prescribed period
• Gradual return to normal activities over several weeks.

Structured post-operative care, including compression and guided mobilisation, plays a critical role in optimising outcomes.

The pathological fat cells removed during surgery do not regenerate. However, lipoedema is a chronic condition, and long-term management remains important.

Maintaining a stable weight, adhering to compression therapy where recommended and following clinical guidance helps preserve results.

All surgical procedures carry risks. These may include swelling, bruising, fluid accumulation, temporary numbness, infection or contour irregularities.

Careful patient selection, meticulous technique and structured follow-up reduce the likelihood of complications. A detailed discussion of risks and benefits forms part of your consultation at Morphē Clinic.

Lipoedema affects more than physical appearance. It impacts mobility, comfort, confidence and long-term lymphatic health.

At Morphē Clinic, patients are assessed comprehensively, with coordinated input from allied health professionals where required. Optimising conservative management alongside surgical planning ensures a balanced, evidence-based and patient-centred approach.

• Most patients either go home on the same day or after an overnight admission
• Pain relief consists of regular paracetamol or prescription painkillers if required
• Patients can return to office type work in 1 week
• Patients should not drive for at least 10 to 14 days; when they are able to perform an emergency stop, off pain relief and their insurance is happy

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Damage to the bile duct – rare, but serious risk; 1 in 300
• Bile leakage – rare, but may require further operation
• Retained gallstones – rare, but may require an ERCP (advanced endoscopy)
• If bile duct stones are found you may need an ERCP (advanced endoscopy)

Yes, you can resume a normal diet. Some patients experience diarrhoea following a fatty meal, however this is variable.

You can lead a normal life without a gallbladder, and laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a very safe and commonly performed operation by Dr Balalis.

Hernia surgery is a procedure to repair a weakness or tear in the abdominal wall where tissue or an organ has pushed through. At Morphē Clinic, hernia repair is performed by experienced surgeons Dr George Balalis and Dr Jesse Beumer using modern surgical techniques designed to minimise discomfort and recovery time.

You should book a consultation at Morphē Clinic if you experience:

• A persistent lump or swelling in the abdomen or groin
  
• Pain that worsens with lifting or straining
  
• Increasing size of a known hernia
  
• Symptoms of reflux not controlled by medication
  
• Sudden severe pain, nausea, or vomiting (seek urgent medical attention).

Most hernias do not heal on their own and may gradually enlarge or cause complications such as incarceration or strangulation.

Early assessment by Dr George Balalis or Dr Jesse Beumer allows for accurate diagnosis and discussion of the most appropriate treatment options tailored to your individual needs.

We treat:

• Inguinal (groin) hernias
  
• Umbilical (belly button) hernias
  
• Epigastric (upper abdominal) hernias
  
• Hiatus hernias.

Both open and laparoscopic (keyhole) techniques are offered depending on the type and severity of the hernia.

Hernia repair is one of the most commonly performed general surgical procedures in Australia, and is considered safe and effective. All surgical procedures carry risks, which will be discussed in detail during your consultation.

Most patients return home the same day or after a short hospital stay. Recovery varies depending on the procedure but typically includes:

• Light activity within a few days
  
• Return to office-based work in 1–2 weeks
  
• Avoiding heavy lifting for 4–6 weeks.

A hiatus hernia occurs when part of the stomach moves into the chest through the diaphragm. It is often associated with reflux or heartburn.

Hiatus hernia surgery may be recommended if:

• Reflux symptoms persist despite medication
  
• There is significant regurgitation or chest discomfort
  
• Complications develop
  
• Symptoms affect your quality of life.

Hiatus hernia surgery at Morphē Clinic is performed laparoscopically. The stomach is repositioned, the diaphragm opening is tightened, and a fundoplication procedure may be performed to reduce reflux.

Hernia repair is one of the most commonly performed general surgical procedures in Australia, and is considered safe and effective. All surgical procedures carry risks, which will be discussed in detail during your consultation.

Patients generally stay in hospital for 1–2 days. Most resume normal activities within 2–4 weeks, with temporary dietary adjustments.

An epigastric hernia occurs in the upper abdomen between the breastbone and the belly button. It often contains fatty tissue protruding through a small weakness in the abdominal wall.

• A small lump in the upper abdomen
  
• Localised tenderness
  
• Pain when coughing, straining or exercising.

Epigastric hernia repair at Morphē Clinic is performed through a small incision over the defect. The tissue is repositioned and the muscle wall is repaired with sutures or mesh, depending on the size of the hernia.

Most patients resume light activities within a few days and gradually return to normal activities over several weeks.

An inguinal hernia develops in the groin when tissue pushes through a weak area in the lower abdominal wall. It is the most common type of hernia, particularly in men.

• A bulge in the groin
  
• Discomfort or aching
  
• Pain when lifting or coughing
  
• Swelling extending into the scrotum (in men).

Inguinal hernia repair may be performed via:

• Open repair
  
• Laparoscopic (keyhole) repair

Mesh reinforcement is commonly used to strengthen the repair and reduce recurrence.

Many patients return to desk work within 1–2 weeks. Physically demanding work may require 4–6 weeks before full duties resume.

A colonoscopy is a procedure used to examine the large intestine (colon) and rectum using a flexible camera. It allows your surgeon to detect inflammation, polyps, bleeding, or signs of bowel cancer.

At Morphē Clinic in Adelaide, colonoscopies are performed by experienced surgeons Dr George Balalis and Dr Jesse Beumer in accredited hospital facilities.

A colonoscopy may be recommended if you have:

• Rectal bleeding
  
• Changes in bowel habits
  
• Unexplained abdominal pain
  
• Iron deficiency anaemia
  
• A family history of bowel cancer
• A positive bowel cancer screening test.

It is also used as a preventative screening tool for bowel cancer.

Yes. Colonoscopy is considered the gold standard for detecting and removing precancerous polyps. Early detection significantly improves outcomes.

You should consider booking a consultation for a colonoscopy if you experience:

• Blood in your stool or rectal bleeding
  
• Persistent changes in bowel habits (diarrhoea, constipation, or alternating patterns)
  
• Unexplained abdominal pain
  
• Iron deficiency anaemia
  
• Unexplained weight loss
• A positive bowel cancer screening test
• A family history of bowel cancer or bowel polyps.

Colonoscopy is also recommended for routine bowel cancer screening for some people, even if you have no symptoms. Speak to your GP for guidance and a referral. 

Early assessment by an experienced Morphē surgeon ensures appropriate investigation and, where necessary, timely removal of polyps before they develop into cancer.

If you experience severe abdominal pain, heavy rectal bleeding, or symptoms of bowel obstruction, seek urgent medical attention.

Yes. A valid GP referral is required for a colonoscopy.

A referral from your general practitioner allows our surgeons, Dr George Balalis and Dr Jesse Beumer, to review your medical history, symptoms, and the reason for investigation before proceeding.

A GP referral is important because it:

• Ensures the procedure is clinically appropriate
  
• Provides relevant background information and test results
• Allows access to Medicare rebates (where applicable
• Helps determine whether a standard consultation or direct access colonoscopy is suitable.

If you believe you require a colonoscopy, please arrange an appointment with your GP to obtain a referral prior to contacting Morphē Clinic.

The procedure is performed under light sedation or anaesthesia. A thin, flexible camera is inserted through the rectum to examine the colon. If polyps are found, they can often be removed at the same time.

The procedure typically takes 20–45 minutes.

Most patients go home the same day. Mild bloating or cramping may occur temporarily. You will need someone to drive you home due to sedation.

The procedure itself is the same. The difference lies in the referral and consultation process.

Standard Colonoscopy:
You first attend a consultation with the surgeon to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and suitability for the procedure. The colonoscopy is then scheduled for a later date.

Direct Access Colonoscopy:
Suitable low-risk patients can proceed directly to colonoscopy without a prior face-to-face consultation. Your referral and medical information are carefully reviewed by Dr George Balalis or Dr Jesse Beumer to ensure it is safe and appropriate to proceed.

Direct access colonoscopy can reduce waiting times while maintaining safety and clinical oversight.

If any concerns are identified, a pre-procedure consultation will be arranged.

View the FAQs for a standard colonoscopy.

An endoscopy (also called a gastroscopy) is a procedure used to examine the oesophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine using a thin flexible camera.

At Morphē Clinic, endoscopy is performed to investigate upper gastrointestinal symptoms and diagnose underlying conditions.

An endoscopy may be recommended if you experience:

• Persistent reflux or heartburn
  
• Difficulty swallowing
  
• Upper abdominal pain
  
• Unexplained nausea or vomiting
  
• Anaemia
• Suspected stomach ulcers.

It is also used to monitor certain conditions over time.

You should seek specialist assessment for an endoscopy if you have:

• Persistent or worsening heartburn or reflux
  
• Difficulty or pain when swallowing
  
• Ongoing upper abdominal pain
• Unexplained nausea or vomiting
• Vomiting blood or passing black stools
• Iron deficiency anaemia without a clear cause
• A strong family history of upper gastrointestinal cancer.

While mild reflux can often be managed with medication, persistent or concerning symptoms should be evaluated to rule out underlying conditions such as inflammation, ulcers, or other abnormalities.

Early investigation at Morphē Clinic allows for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment planning.

Yes. A GP referral is required before booking an endoscopy.

Your referral provides important clinical information to ensure the procedure is appropriate and safely planned. It also enables Medicare rebates where applicable.

An endoscopy referral may be provided if you are experiencing:

• Persistent reflux or heartburn
  
• Difficulty swallowing
  
• Ongoing upper abdominal pain
  
• Unexplained anaemia
  
• Other concerning upper gastrointestinal symptoms.

If you are experiencing symptoms and think you may need an endoscopy, please see your GP to obtain a referral before contacting Morphē Clinic to arrange your procedure.

The procedure is performed under light sedation. The camera is passed gently through the mouth into the upper digestive tract. Biopsies (small tissue samples) can be taken if required.

The procedure usually takes 10–20 minutes.

Most patients are comfortable due to sedation. You may have a mild sore throat afterwards, which usually resolves within a day.

You will be monitored briefly after the procedure and can usually go home the same day. Due to sedation, you will need someone to drive you home.