Bariatric surgery can be an important option for people seeking long-term weight management and improved health. 

But one of the most important questions is: How do I choose the right surgeon for my weight-loss procedure? 

In this guide, we outline four important factors to consider when choosing a bariatric surgeon in Melbourne.

1. Is your bariatric surgeon qualified?

Choosing a qualified bariatric surgeon is an important part of planning for long-term care and safety. 

One qualification you may look for is FRACS.

FRACS indicates that a surgeon has completed recognised specialist surgical training, passed the required assessments and been awarded Fellowship by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons. 

This typically includes a further five to six years of surgical training after medical school and early hospital experience. You can check the RACS listing to confirm whether a surgeon has the qualification.

You can also use the AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) Register of Practitioners to check a doctor’s current registration details. 

2. Does your surgeon offer a range of weight-loss treatment options?

Different treatment options may suit different people, depending on factors such as your medical history, BMI, existing health conditions, reflux symptoms, previous surgeries, and long-term goals.

When researching a bariatric surgeon, consider whether they offer and can clearly explain a range of surgical and non-surgical weight-management options. 

Common procedures include:

• Gastric sleeve surgery 
• Roux-en-Y gastric bypass 
• Mini gastric bypass, also known as one-anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) 
• Laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB)

 

Category	Gastric Sleeve	Gastric Bypass (RYGB)	Mini Bypass (OAGB)	Gastric Band (LAGB)
How it works	Reduces stomach size by 80%	Reduces stomach to smaller pouch and bypasses part of short intestine	Creates narrow stomach tube and bypasses approx. 2m of bowel	Reduced food transit
Reversible?	No	Mostly no	Partly	Yes
Weight-loss potential	Very Strong	Very strong	Very strong	Strong
Biggest risk	Heartburn (reflux)	Low nutrients, dumping	Bile reflux, low nutrients	Reflux

Dr Jason Winnett provides each of the above bariatric treatment options laparoscopically, as well as an intragastric balloon. 

Winnett Specialist Group also assists patients with non-surgical weight management options, including psychological and exercise support, as well as weight-loss medications. 

3. Does the surgeon’s practice offer multidisciplinary care?

Bariatric surgery is a well-established treatment option, but like all surgery, it involves potential risks and long-term considerations. 

These can include nutritional deficiencies, changes in eating habits, and the need for ongoing monitoring.

A study in Obesity Surgery found that patients who attended all scheduled follow-up appointments were more likely to achieve significant weight loss at 12 months, at least 50% excess weight loss or 30% total weight loss.

The team at Winnett Specialist Group includes bariatric surgeon Dr Jason Winnett, bariatric physician Dr Audrey Kotzander, dietitian Ashleigh Gale, psychologist Kylie Murphy, and exercise and lifestyle consultant Sarah Pizzi, alongside the clinic support team. 

This connected approach helps patients receive consistent guidance as they prepare for treatment, recover from surgery, and work towards long-term health goals.

Meet the team at Winnett Specialist Group.

4. Where will your surgery be performed?

Location and hospital access are important practical considerations when choosing a bariatric surgeon.

Before deciding, ask where your consultation, surgery, and post-operative appointments will take place. 

It’s also helpful to understand the expected hospital stay, the clinical support available during recovery and who to contact if you have concerns after returning home.

The hospital where your procedure is performed should have appropriate surgical, anaesthetic and nursing support for your individual needs. 

During your consultation, ask your surgeon to explain the planned hospital location, what to expect on the day of surgery, discharge arrangements and the process for managing any post-operative concerns.

More questions to ask at your bariatric surgery consultation

Beyond the four key factors outlined above, your consultation is a valuable opportunity to ask further questions about the surgeon’s approach, the support available, and whether the proposed treatment plan fits your needs.

• What qualifications and bariatric-specific training do you have?
• Which treatment options could suit my health history and goals?
• How many surgeries have you performed, and what are your outcomes? 
• Why do you recommend this procedure rather than another option?
• What happens if it doesn’t work? 
• What changes will I need to make before and after surgery?
• Where will my procedure take place, and what support is available during recovery?
• Who will support me with nutrition, lifestyle changes, and emotional well-being?
• How often will I need follow-up appointments after surgery?
• What complications or long-term issues should I be aware of in my situation?
• What costs should I plan for, including hospital, anaesthetic, follow-up and possible out-of-pocket expenses?
• How can I verify your current specialist registration?

Taking the time to ask these questions helps you make a confident, informed decision about the bariatric surgeon and care team who are right for your long-term health journey.

Get to know the team at Winnett Specialist Group

Choosing a bariatric surgeon is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make in your weight-loss journey. Look for qualifications, a range of treatment options, a genuine multidisciplinary team, and clarity about where your surgery and follow-up care will take place.

Dr Jason Winnett and the team at Winnett Specialist Group offer connected, long-term care across East Melbourne, Sydenham, Williamstown and Werribee. If you’d like to know more about your options and whether surgery is right for you, book a consultation.

Reference: 

Postoperative follow-up after bariatric surgery: effect on weight loss-Obesity Surgery

Contact

P (03) 9417 1555

admin@winnettspecialistgroup.com.au

www.winnettspecialistgroup.com.au

Queens Terrace, 382 Victoria Parade, East Melbourne 3002

This page was reviewed by Dr Jason Winnett and dietitian Ashleigh Gale, July 2026, AHPRA No: MED0001155541 

General information only. Not medical advice. All procedures carry risks and results are individual. Consult your GP and a specialist surgeon or seek a second opinion before proceeding.