Dr Ali Zarrouk

Southwest Bariatrics

Campbelltown, NSW

FRACSANZMOSS MemberIFSO MemberFRACS

About

Southwest Bariatrics is a bariatric and general surgery practice in Campbelltown and Gregory Hills, South West Sydney, led by Dr Ali Zarrouk and Dr Rachel Kirby, specializing in sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass, and revisional bariatric surgery with a multidisciplinary team approach.

Procedures Offered

Gastric Sleeve

Gastric Bypass (RYGB)

Mini Gastric Bypass

SADI-S / SIPS

Lap-Band Removal

Revisional Surgery

GLP-1 Medication Management

Also offered

Laparoscopic Anti-Reflux SurgerySurgery for Hiatal HerniaLaparoscopic Groin / Inguinal Hernia RepairAbdominal Wall HerniasLaparoscopic Gallbladder SurgeryGastroscopyColonoscopy

Surgeons at This Clinic

Dr Ali Zarrouk

FRACSFRACS

Bariatric SurgeryUpper Gastrointestinal SurgeryAnti-reflux and Hiatus Hernia SurgeryLaparoscopic Hernia RepairGallbladder Surgery

Dr Rachel Kirby

FRACSFRACSMRCSI

Bariatric SurgeryUpper GI SurgeryGastroesophageal Reflux DiseaseLaparoscopic Gallbladder RepairLaparoscopic Hernia Repair

Hospital Affiliations

Campbelltown Private Hospital

Campbelltown, NSW - private

About the Surgeon

Dr Ali Zarrouk

Dr. Ali Zarrouk is a highly experienced bariatric surgeon, dedicated to helping patients achieve their weight loss and health goals. He began his medical career in 1994 after completing his medical degree in Baghdad, Iraq....

“Dr. Zarrouk is committed to a holistic, multidisciplinary approach to patient care. His friendly and approachable nature ensures that his patients receive not only expert surgical treatment but also the highest standard of support throughout their healthcare journey.”

Training

Medical degree completed in 1994 in Baghdad, Iraq. Commenced surgical training in New Zealand in 1997. Awarded Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in 2007. Two years of post-fellowship training in bariatric and upper GI surgery in Sydney. GESA certified for gastroscopy and colonoscopy.

Achievements & Roles

Over 3,500 bariatric operations since 2011Member of Australian and New Zealand Metabolic and Obesity Surgery Society (ANZMOS)Member of International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO)Member of Gastroenterological Society of Australia (GESA)

Dr Rachel Kirby

Dr. Rachel Kirby is a specialist Upper GI and Bariatric Surgeon with a comprehensive background in metabolic health, advanced laparoscopic surgery, and endoscopy. She consults and operates at both Campbelltown Private Hospital and The George Centre in Gledswood Hills....

Training

Medical degree with honours from University College Dublin in 2005. MRCSI in 2008. FRACS in 2015. Two years sub-specialty training in hepatopancreatobiliary and oesophagogastric surgery through ANZHPBA program at Western Hospital Melbourne (2016) and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Sydney (2017). GESA-certified in gastroscopy and colonoscopy. Additional training: Sydney Professional Certificate in Metabolic Health (2022), IFSO Fundamentals of Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery Course (2023), RoboSET Robotic Simulation Skills Course (2024), SCOPE School Certificate in Obesity Management (2025), Melbourne University Obesity Course (2025).

Achievements & Roles

RACS Clinical ExaminerGESA-certified and recertified in colonoscopy in 2025Visiting Medical Officer in Upper GI and Bariatric Surgery at Campbelltown Private Hospital since 2018

Procedure Information

Sleeve Gastrectomy

▼

A bariatric procedure where a portion of the stomach is permanently removed. It is one of the specialties offered at Southwest Bariatrics for overcoming obesity.

Hospital stay: 2-3 daysRecovery: 2 to 4 weeks off work (desk-based jobs may return as early as 2 weeks; physically demanding jobs may need 4 to 6 weeks)

Roux en Y Gastric Bypass

▼

Described as the 'Gold Standard' weight loss operation. It can effectively reduce acid reflux symptoms in addition to achieving weight loss.

One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass / Mini Bypass

▼

A simplified type of gastric bypass offered as a bariatric surgical option.

SADI

▼

Single Anastomosis Duodeno-Ileal Bypass with Sleeve Gastrectomy.

Revisional Bariatric Surgery

▼

Advanced surgical solutions for patients seeking revision after a previous bariatric procedure.

Removal of Gastric Band

▼

Surgical removal of a previously placed gastric band, listed under problems with the gastric band.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an age requirement to have the sleeve gastrectomy?▼

It is generally recommended that you be between the ages of 18 and 65 to undergo weight loss surgery, including the sleeve gastrectomy. However, this range may vary based on individual patient evaluations, specific comorbidities, and institutional policies. In some cases, patients under 18 or over 65 may be considered if their obesity poses significant health risks.

What medical problems will be improved by sleeve gastrectomy?▼

Many obesity-related illnesses can improve or even be resolved after weight loss surgery. These include sleep apnea, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension, stress incontinence, joint pain, osteoarthritis, and depression. Weight loss can also lead to improved outcomes in pregnancy, increased fertility, and a lower risk of certain cancers. While some patients experience relief from acid reflux, others may develop or worsen reflux symptoms after sleeve gastrectomy. Overall, the surgery...

Are there specific vitamins I need to be taking?▼

Surgery patients should take a complete multivitamin twice daily, along with 1200 mg of calcium citrate per day. Calcium supplements should include vitamin D3 to ensure proper absorption. A vitamin B12 supplement, either in sublingual or injectable form, is also recommended. In the initial weeks after surgery, it is preferable to use soluble or chewable multivitamins for better absorption. Your dietitian will recommend appropriate brands and formulations.

Is weight loss surgery considered a cure for obesity?▼

The surgery is considered a "tool" to help patients lose weight, but it is not a cure for obesity. Patients must use the effects of the surgery to adopt healthier eating and exercise habits to achieve and maintain weight loss.

Is sleeve gastrectomy reversible?▼

No, sleeve gastrectomy is not reversible. During the procedure, a portion of the stomach is permanently removed. Reversing any weight loss surgery, such as gastric band or gastric bypass, typically results in weight regain. You should not undergo weight loss surgery if you intend to have it reversed at any point. While the sleeve gastrectomy cannot be reversed, it can be converted to a gastric bypass if necessary.

Will the staples in the stomach set off metal detectors or be unsafe for MRIs?▼

Staples used in sleeve gastrectomy are made of titanium, which is non-magnetic and does not trigger metal detectors or cause issues with MRI scanners. Titanium staples are commonly used in surgeries involving the stomach or intestines.

Is it possible to regain the weight that I lose after sleeve gastrectomy?▼

Yes, weight regain is possible after any weight loss surgery, including sleeve gastrectomy. While many patients maintain significant weight loss long-term, regaining some weight is common. To prevent significant regain, patients must remain committed to a healthy diet, regular exercise, and consistent follow-up with healthcare providers. Support from dietitians, behavioral health specialists, and online groups can help maintain healthy habits and prevent substantial weight regain.

Is sleeve gastrectomy covered by my health fund?▼

Most health funds cover the majority of the expenses associated with sleeve gastrectomy. However, you should contact your health fund to confirm whether your specific policy covers the procedure. The MBS item number for sleeve gastrectomy is 31575, but there may be additional out-of-pocket costs as outlined in the fees section.

Results

over 3,500 bariatric operations since 2011 (Dr Zarrouk)

Support Team

Dietitian

Psychologist

Nurse Specialist

Aftercare

Support groups available

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