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A/Prof Harald Puhalla

General Surgery & Weight Loss Operation

Southport, QLD20+ years experience
ANZMOSS MemberIFSO Member

About

A Gold Coast-based general and bariatric surgery practice led by Dr Harald Puhalla, offering world-class surgical care with decades of expertise in weight loss, hepato-biliary pancreatic, and upper gastrointestinal surgery.

Procedures Offered

Gastric Sleeve
Gastric Bypass (RYGB)
Mini Gastric Bypass
SADI-S / SIPS
Lap-Band Removal
Gastric Balloon
Revisional Surgery
Robotic Surgery

Also offered

Gallbladder & Bile Ducts SurgeryHernia SurgeryLiver SurgeryPancreas SurgeryMedical Weight Loss

Hospital Affiliations

Gold Coast Private Hospital

QLD - private

Pindara Private Hospital

QLD - private

Gold Coast Hospital

QLD - public

About Dr Harald Puhalla

Dr Harald Puhalla is a General Surgeon based on the Gold Coast, Queensland.

  • Dr Puhalla is dedicated to helping his patients achieve the best possible results through high quality care. He regularly travels overseas to further his education and training, to stay up to date with the latest surgical techniques.
  • Graduated in 1994 at the Medical University of Vienna. Completed specialist exams in 2002. Undertook further training in bariatric, hepato-pancreatic-biliary and upper gastrointestinal surgery in high volume centres under the guidance of international experts. Completed a PhD in liver cancer. Appointed as a Consultant Surgeon at the University Hospital in Vienna. Commenced as a General Surgeon at the Gold Coast Hospital in 2008.
  • Associate Professor of Surgery
  • PhD in liver cancer
  • Consultant Surgeon at the University Hospital in Vienna
  • Member of ANZMOSS
  • Member of AANZGOSA
  • Member of AANZHPBA
  • Member of IFSO
  • Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons
  • Participant in the Bariatric Surgery Registry
  • Featured on Channel 7's Gold Coast Medical
  • Extensive publication record including 12 leading author original articles and 20 co-authored original articles
  • Featured in ABC TV Show Catalyst on 3-D imaging and its role in surgery

Procedure Information

Sleeve Gastrectomy

During a sleeve gastrectomy a narrow gastric tube is fashioned in-between the food pipe (oesophagus) and the small bowel, while the majority of the stomach (80%) is removed. The continuity of the stomach is not interrupted compared to a bypass procedure.

Single Anastomosis Gastric Bypass

By completely dividing the upper part of the stomach a small gastric pouch is formed, which results in a drastic reduction of the gastric volume. Further a bypass of the first section of the small bowel is created.

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

By completely dividing the upper part of the stomach a small gastric pouch is formed, which results in a drastic reduction of the gastric volume. Further a bypass of the first section of the small bowel is created during which the bilio-digestive enzymes joining the digestion of the nutrients about 1.5m downstream after the stomach.

Loop-Duodenal Switch (SADI-S / SIPS)

The Loop Duodenal Switch (SADI-S or SIPS) combines a moderate restriction (reduced portion sizes) of a sleeve gastrectomy with a moderate reduced absorption (bypassed small bowel).

Revision Surgery

Revision surgery involves either the conversion of one weight loss procedure into another, in a single or two stage process, or adjusting a previous procedure. This can be due to different factors, including inadequate weight loss or gradual weight gain, or reflux.

Hospital stay: 1 night
Intra-gastric Balloon (Orbera)

The Intra-gastric balloon is a non-surgical weight-loss procedure which involves the insertion of a specialised balloon inside the stomach to occupy space and limit the food carrying capacity of the stomach.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does revision surgery take?
Surgery time varies depending on what revision procedure is being performed.
How much weight can I expect to lose?
Weight loss can vary between individuals depending on multiple factors, therefore an exact figure cannot be guaranteed. Generally after revision surgery, weight loss is less compared to a primary bariatric procedure.
How do I know this procedure is right for me?
To determine your suitability for this procedure, you will need to have a discussion with Dr Puhalla by booking in an initial consultation.
How much does the procedure cost? (Revision Surgery)
To find out an estimation of cost, please call our clinic on (07) 5667 9766.
Is this procedure safe? (Revision Surgery)
Revision surgery is more complex than a primary bariatric operation due to scar tissue. Short term risks can include: Bleeding, Infection, Blood Clots, Stomach Leaks. Long terms risks can include: Reflux, Malnutrition, Hernia, Vomiting, Ulcers. We recommend having a discussion with Dr Puhalla during your consultation to answer any questions or concerns.
Are there any pre-operative tests prior to surgery? (Revision Surgery)
Yes, in most cases Dr Puhalla will refer you for a pre-operative blood test and often some imaging. He may also refer you for a medical evaluation to assess fitness for surgery. Sometimes a psychological assessment can be helpful as well. If clinically indicated, Dr Puhalla may request for you to have a gastroscopy. This is a procedure performed under sedation, where a thin flexible camera is placed down your oesophagus and into your stomach. It can be useful to determine if there is a hiatus...
Do you accept patients who have undergone a bariatric procedure with another doctor?
We usually recommend returning to your previous surgeon, however Dr Puhalla does see new patients for revisional surgery.
Can I still drink alcohol after having a revision procedure?
Yes you can, however you will feel the effects of alcohol more quickly after bariatric surgery than you previously did. It is advised to make a conscious effort to limit your alcohol intake and frequency. The regular use of alcohol may lead to poor food choices, weight regain, liver damage, reflux and irritation to your gastrointestinal tract.

Support Team

Dietitian

Nurse Specialist

Aftercare

12 months follow-up (included in fee)

BSR Contributor

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