Anti-Reflux Surgery in Melbourne

20250509 1213 GERD And Healthy Stomach Simple Compose 01Jtswfd02egcr6pj31g0gdmb7

Acid reflux, commonly known as GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), affects millions of individuals, leading to uncomfortable symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, and chest pain. When lifestyle changes and medication are not effective, anti-reflux surgery provides a reliable solution. Dr. Niruben Rajasagaram, an experienced surgeon, offers advanced anti-reflux surgery in Melbourne, helping patients manage symptoms.

Using minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopic fundoplication surgery, Dr. Rajasagaram treats a range of conditions, including GERD and hiatal hernia. His approach focuses on effective symptom control with quicker recovery and fewer complications.

Whether you're dealing with severe acid reflux or need hiatal hernia surgery, Dr. Rajasagaram provides solutions personalised to your needs.

What is Anti-Reflux Surgery?

20250509 1218 Digestive Surgery Overview Simple Compose 01Jtswrcneetdsj62bgx3a52ks

Anti-reflux surgery is performed to effectively manage and relieve the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease. The procedure aims to reinforce the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), helping to stop stomach acid from moving back into the oesophagus and causing discomfort.

In cases of hiatal hernia, where the upper part of the stomach bulges into the chest cavity, the surgery also addresses this issue. Hiatal hernia surgery in Melbourne can often be combined with anti-reflux surgery to ensure optimal results. Laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery is the preferred method as it is minimally invasive and offers faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgery.

Benefits of Anti-Reflux Surgery

Opting for Anti-reflux or GERD surgery in Melbourne offers a range of benefits, providing lasting relief from symptoms that can interfere with daily life. Below are some of the benefits of considering anti-reflux surgery : 

Long-Term Relief from Reflux Symptoms

Anti-reflux surgery offers lasting relief from persistent symptoms like heartburn, chest discomfort, and acid regurgitation. Unlike temporary solutions such as medication, surgery addresses the root cause of reflux, helping patients enjoy a better quality of life with fewer interruptions caused by discomfort or digestive issues.

Decreased Dependence on Medications

Many individuals rely on daily acid-suppressing medications to manage reflux symptoms. After surgery, most patients significantly reduce or completely stop these medications. This eliminates the need for long-term medication use, as well as reducing potential side effects and dependency while offering a more permanent solution to managing GERD or acid reflux.

Improved Sleep Quality

Reflux symptoms often worsen at night, disrupting restful sleep. Anti-reflux surgery reduces or eliminates nighttime acid reflux, helping patients sleep better without the discomfort of regurgitation or heartburn. Better sleep contributes to improved mood, energy, and daily performance, enhancing overall health and well-being.

Reduced Risk of Oesophageal Damage

Chronic acid reflux can damage the oesophagus, leading to conditions like oesophagitis or Barrett’s oesophagus. Anti-reflux surgery from a gastroesophageal reflux disease specialist helps prevent this damage by stopping acid from rising into the oesophagus. This lowers the risk of long-term complications and promotes better gastrointestinal health over time.

Minimally Invasive Recovery

Most anti-reflux surgeries are performed laparoscopically, using small incisions and advanced tools. This results in less post-operative pain, fewer complications, and a faster recovery. Patients generally return to daily activities sooner, with less scarring and a more comfortable overall surgical experience.

Who is an Ideal Candidate?

The ideal candidates for anti-reflux surgery are individuals with chronic acid reflux or GERD that has not improved with lifestyle changes or medication. This procedure is typically recommended when other treatments have failed to provide lasting relief. Candidates may also include those with a hiatal hernia causing reflux symptoms. 

Generally, surgery is recommended for patients who have:

  • Experienced GERD symptoms for more than 5 years

  • Not found relief through lifestyle changes or medication

  • Severe acid reflux leading to oesophageal damage

  • A hiatal hernia contributing to reflux symptoms

If you fit these criteria, Dr. Niruben Rajasagaram can discuss your suitability for acid reflux surgery in Melbourne.

What to Expect During Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Surgery?

The procedure involves several key steps, ensuring that patients experience a smooth and successful treatment process. Here's an overview of how it works:

Pre-Operative Preparation

  • Perform health checks and pre-surgery tests

  • Discuss anaesthesia and surgery options

  • Give fasting and medication instructions

  • Mark incision sites accurately

  • Administer anaesthesia before surgery

Minimally Invasive Laparoscopic Approach

  • Make small incisions in the abdomen

  • Insert a laparoscope to guide the surgery

  • View internal organs on a screen for precision

  • Use specialised tools to perform GERD surgery 

  • Minimise tissue trauma for faster recovery

Fundoplication Procedure

  • The top of the stomach is wrapped around the lower oesophagus

  • Reinforces the valve between the stomach and oesophagus

  • This prevents acid reflux and eases pressure on the diaphragm

  • Hiatal hernia repair may be performed if necessary

  • The stomach is secured to keep it in place

Closing the Incisions

  • Small incisions are closed with sutures or staples

  • Minimal scarring is expected with laparoscopic techniques

  • A sterile dressing is applied to protect the wounds

  • Immediate post-surgery monitoring begins

  • Patients are carefully prepared for recovery

Post-Operative Recovery

  • Most patients stay in the hospital for 1-2 days

  • Pain management is provided during the recovery period

  • A clear liquid diet is introduced, progressing to soft foods

  • Patients are encouraged to walk around to prevent blood clots

  • Follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing

Long-Term Care and Results

  • Patients gradually return to normal activities in 2-3 weeks

  • Regular check-ups with GORD specialist ensure the procedure’s success

  • Lifestyle changes, such as dietary adjustments, are recommended

  • Many patients experience permanent relief from reflux symptoms

  • Overall improvement in digestive health and comfort

Take control of your digestive health today.

At our centre, we understand how challenging and uncomfortable chronic acid reflux can be. Dr. Rajasagaram specialises in laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery and has successfully helped many patients who haven’t found relief through other treatments. With advanced techniques and precision, Dr. Rajasagaram offers a solution that identifies the root cause, providing lasting relief. Many patients experience a significant improvement in symptoms and can resume their normal activities without the constant worry of acid reflux.

Risks & Considerations

While Anti-Reflux or Hiatal hernia surgery in Melbourne is generally safe and effective, as with any surgery, there are some risks and considerations:

  • Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there's a risk of infection at the incision site.

  • Difficulty Swallowing: Some patients may experience temporary difficulty swallowing post-surgery.

  • Gas Bloat Syndrome: In rare cases, patients may experience bloating or difficulty passing gas.

  • Recurrence of Symptoms: Though uncommon, reflux symptoms may return after surgery.

  • Complications with Anaesthesia: Risks associated with general anaesthesia, though minimal, may still be present.

Dr. Rajasagaram, an acid reflux specialist in Melbourne, thoroughly evaluates each patient's unique situation to determine if anti-reflux surgery is the appropriate treatment. This includes a comprehensive assessment of your medical history, symptoms, previous treatments, and diagnostic test results.

Why Choose Dr Niruben Rajasagaram for Anti-Reflux Surgery?

Dr. Niruben Rajasagaram is a skilled and preferred gastrointestinal surgeon in Melbourne, known for his experience in laparoscopic acid reflux surgery. Here is why patients across Melbourne choose Dr. Rajasangram: 

  • Laparoscopic Expertise: Minimally invasive techniques for faster recovery and reduced discomfort.

  • Innovative Approach: Offers the latest surgical advancements for optimal outcomes.

  • Thorough Diagnostics: Comprehensive assessments to identify the root cause of symptoms.

  • Personalised Care Plans: Treatment plans designed by Dr. Niruben, a GERD specialist in Melbourne, are personalised to each patient’s specific condition and lifestyle, ensuring the most effective solutions.

  • Experienced Surgeon: Proven success in anti-reflux, hiatal hernia, and fundoplication procedures.

  • Clear Communication: Detailed, easy-to-understand guidance at every step

  • Long-Term Focus: Emphasis on lasting relief and continuous follow-up care.

What Our Patients Say

From successful reflux treatments to compassionate support throughout recovery, our patients’ experiences speak for themselves. Take a moment to read their stories and see why so many people across Melbourne trust Dr. Niruben Rajasagaram

Surgery Options

Please see below a list of some of the more common surgeries for Bariatric (Weight Loss), Upper Gastrointestinal (Hiatal Hernia & Anti Reflux) and General Surgery (Gall Bladder & Hernias) that Mr.Niruben currently performs.

Frequently Asked Questions about Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Surgery

    • What is Laparoscopic Fundoplication and how is it performed?

      Laparoscopic Fundoplication is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat GERD. The upper part of the stomach is wrapped around the lower oesophagus to reinforce the valve between the oesophagus and stomach. This prevents acid reflux. Our reflux surgeon in Melbourne performs the procedure using small incisions, generally resulting in a quicker recovery time compared to traditional open surgery.

    • Yes, dietary changes are recommended after acid reflux surgery in Melbourne. You’ll start with liquids and soft foods, then gradually return to a regular diet. Avoid carbonated drinks, large meals, and foods that cause gas or discomfort. Dr. Niruben Rajasagaram and Ms.Stefania Basso (Bariatric Dietitian) will provide detailed post-operative dietary guidelines.

    • Excess weight, particularly around the abdomen, can put added pressure on the stomach and exacerbate reflux symptoms. We recommend losing weight before surgery to help improve the overall outcomes. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight after anti-reflux or fundoplication surgery in Melbourne is crucial for preventing the return of GERD symptoms.

    • Recovery after GERD surgery Melbourne normally takes 4 to 6 weeks. Most of our patients are able to return to work within 1–2 weeks, depending on the type of job they have. Light activities can usually be resumed after a few days, but we advise avoiding heavy lifting during the recovery period.