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Mr Mohamed Atalla

BetterLife Surgery

Shepparton, VIC5 (4 reviews)
FRACSANZMOSS MemberIFSO MemberMBBSMSMDFRACS

About

BetterLife Surgery offers tailored surgical and non-surgical weight loss solutions under the care of bariatric surgeon Dr Mohamed (Mo) Atalla, serving Melbourne, Shepparton, Echuca and Bendigo with personalised care and lifelong support.

Procedures Offered

Gastric Sleeve
Gastric Bypass (RYGB)
Lap-Band
Lap-Band Removal
Gastric Balloon
Revisional Surgery
GLP-1 Medication Management

Also offered

Duodenal SwitchAbdominoplasty (tummy tuck) selectively after significant weight lossAcid reflux surgeryGallbladder surgeryHernia surgeryGastroscopyColonoscopyColorectal surgerySkin cancer surgery

Hospital Affiliations

John Fawkner Private Hospital

Coburg, VIC - private

Warringal Private Hospital

Heidelberg, VIC - private

The Avenue Private Hospital

Windsor, VIC - private

Shepparton Private Hospital

Shepparton, VIC - private

Northern Private Hospital

Epping, VIC - private

Echuca Hospital

Echuca, VIC

About Dr Mohamed (Mo) Atalla

Mr Atalla is a certified locally trained bariatric surgeon and a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS).

  • I am committed to promoting disease resolution through minimally invasive surgery in the most comfortable and safe environment possible. I am happy to assist patients in selecting the most appropriate course of action as I am a strong believer that a solid support system, from the first consultation to follow-up care, is essential to providing patients the assistance they need as they embark on a new path toward a healthier, happier lifestyle.
  • MBBS, MS, MD, FRACS. Completed Specialist General Surgery training through Western Health in Melbourne and affiliated regional hospitals. Post-fellowship training in Bariatric Surgery with Mr Michael Booth in Auckland, New Zealand. Credentialed Endoscopist under the GESA Conjoint Committee. Senior lecturer at the University of Melbourne.
  • Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS)
  • Credentialed Endoscopist under the GESA Conjoint Committee
  • Senior lecturer at the University of Melbourne
  • Multiple publications in peer-reviewed journals
  • BSR Leading Contributor 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024
  • Member of ANZMOSS, IFSO, AMA, GESA
  • Presented at IFSO World Congress
  • Presented at RACS Annual Scientific Meeting
  • Presented at ANZMOSS Conference

Procedure Information

Gastric Sleeve
50–70% of excess weight within the first 12–18 months

Gastric sleeve surgery removes about 75–80% of the stomach, leaving a smaller, sleeve-shaped stomach. This limits food intake, helps you feel fuller faster, and reduces the hunger-causing hormone ghrelin.

Hospital stay: 1–2 nightsRecovery: 1–2 weeks to return to work; procedure takes 60–90 minutes
Gastric Bypass
60–80% of excess weight within the first 12–18 months

Gastric bypass involves creating a smaller stomach pouch and connecting it directly to the small intestine, bypassing a large portion of the stomach and the upper part of the intestine. This reduces food intake and decreases calorie absorption.

Hospital stay: 1–2 nightsRecovery: 1–2 weeks for light activities; about 6 weeks for full recovery including strenuous activities
Gastric Band
50–70% of excess weight within the first two years

The gastric band involves placing an adjustable silicone band around the upper portion of the stomach, creating a small pouch. This limits food intake, helping you feel full sooner. The band can be adjusted to control the size of the opening between the pouch and the rest of the stomach.

Hospital stay: Usually performed as day surgeryRecovery: Most people resume normal activities within a week; avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for four weeks. Surgery takes 30–60 minutes.
Duodenal Switch
70–85% of excess body weight within the first 12–24 months

The duodenal switch combines a sleeve gastrectomy to reduce stomach size with an intestinal bypass to limit calorie absorption. This creates a smaller stomach and reroutes the small intestine, bypassing most of the stomach's digestive process. It's especially effective for patients with a high BMI.

Hospital stay: 2–3 nightsRecovery: 1–2 weeks for light activities; 6–8 weeks for full recovery
Revision Bariatric Surgery
50–70% of excess weight on average, though results vary

Revision bariatric surgery is performed on patients who have had a previous weight-loss surgery but did not achieve the desired results or have experienced complications. This may involve adjusting, converting, or repairing the original procedure to achieve safer, more sustainable long-term weight loss.

Non-Invasive Weight Loss (Weight Loss Injections)

Weight loss injections including Mounjaro®, Ozempic®, Saxenda®, and Wegovy® work by targeting hormones that control appetite, such as GLP-1. They help regulate hunger signals, leading to reduced cravings and a feeling of fullness, supporting safe and sustainable weight loss when combined with lifestyle changes.

Patient Testimonials

The team at BetterLife Surgery are absolutely amazing. Mo, Bec & Marianne are so supportive and helpful it made my entire experience a breeze! I had many goals with my weight loss, but my main one was to finally buy and wear a bikini and not hate the person in the mirror, thanks...

R. C.

Mo and the team at Better Life Surgery have been truly amazing during my weight loss journey. I was not in a healthy space before seeing Mo and discussing where I needed to be to become a better person and develop a positive outlook on my life. The before and after care provided…

E. W.

Dr Atalla and his team are an incredible bunch of people. From the moment I made that first call to this very day I know I made the best decision for my life and my journey ahead. Dr Atalla's natural caring nature teamed with his expertise confirmed that I was in the best hands.

Y. M.

I was lucky enough to be referred to Dr Mo Atalla for weight loss surgery. Mo and his team including Marianne, Bec, and Janet have been very helpful with my journey as well as previous health issues. It's very heartening to know they are available to give support before and...

R. P.

There are not enough stars or words that can be said at how wonderful this team is. The care, detail, and extensive support are next level. I was sleeved in 2019 and then bypassed with hernia repair by Dr Mo August 2024…

D. A.Gastric Sleeve (2019), then Gastric Bypass with hernia repair (August 2024)

+ 3 more testimonials on their website

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does It Take To Recover From Gastric Bypass?
Most patients stay in the hospital for 1–2 nights and can return to light activities within one to two weeks. Full recovery, including a return to strenuous activities, usually takes about six weeks. The BetterLife Surgery team will guide you through each stage of recovery.
Will I Need to Follow a Special Diet After Surgery?
Yes, your diet will progress in stages. Initially, you'll follow a liquid diet before gradually reintroducing soft and solid foods. You'll need to focus on high-protein, nutrient-dense meals while avoiding sugary and high-fat foods. Lifelong dietary changes are essential for maintaining weight loss and overall health.
Will I Need to Take Supplements After Gastric Bypass?
Yes, because gastric bypass alters digestion and reduces nutrient absorption, you'll need lifelong vitamin and mineral supplements, such as multivitamins, calcium, vitamin B12, iron, and vitamin D. Regular blood tests will help monitor your nutrient levels over time.
What Are the Risks of Gastric Bypass Surgery?
As with any surgery, gastric bypass carries some risks, including infection, bleeding, and reactions to anaesthesia. Specific risks include nutrient deficiencies, dumping syndrome, and, in rare cases, complications like bowel obstruction or ulcers. Dr Mo Atalla will discuss these risks in detail and provide guidance on minimising them.
Can Gastric Bypass Help With Type 2 Diabetes?
Many patients experience significant improvements in type 2 diabetes after gastric bypass, with some achieving remission. The procedure alters gut hormones, improving insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control. However, results vary, and long-term follow-up is crucial.
Will I Regain Weight After Gastric Bypass?
While gastric bypass helps with long-term weight loss, some weight regain is possible if healthy habits aren't maintained. Regular follow-ups with Dr Mo Atalla, a balanced diet, and consistent physical activity can help you sustain your results.
Is Gastric Bypass Reversible?
Gastric bypass is generally considered a permanent procedure. While reversal is possible in rare cases, it carries significant risks. If complications arise, revision surgery may be an option, but it's best to view gastric bypass as a lifelong commitment.
How Is the Gastric Band Procedure Performed?
The gastric band is placed using keyhole surgery under general anaesthesia. A small, adjustable silicone band is positioned around the upper stomach, creating a smaller pouch. A thin tube connects the band to a port under your skin, which allows for adjustments over time. The surgery usually takes 30–60 minutes, and most patients can return home the same day.

Support Team

Dietitian

Psychologist

Exercise Physiologist

Nurse Specialist

Aftercare

lifetime follow-up

BSR Contributor (Leading Contributor)

Opening Hours

Saturday: Closed

Sunday: Closed

Monday: 8:30 am–5:30 pm

Tuesday: 8:30 am–5:30 pm

Wednesday: 8:30 am–5:30 pm

Thursday: 8:30 am–5:30 pm

Friday: 8:30 am–5:30 pm

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