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Mark Boccola

Circle of Care

Bella Vista, NSW5 (11 reviews)
FRACSANZMOSS MemberIFSO MemberB.MedFRACSANZGOSA

About

Circle of Care specialises in safe, effective bariatric surgery with personalised support at every step, led by experienced surgeons and a dedicated allied health team to help patients achieve long-term weight loss and better health.

Procedures Offered

Gastric Sleeve
Gastric Bypass (RYGB)
Mini Gastric Bypass
Lap-Band Removal
Revisional Surgery

Also offered

Gastric Band Conversion

Hospital Affiliations

Lakeview Private Hospital

Bella Vista, NSW - private

About the Surgeon

Dr Mark Boccola

Dr Mark Boccola is a specialty trained Bariatric and Upper GI surgeon. He grew up in Newcastle, NSW and attended the University of Newcastle Medical School graduating in 2006.

Training

University of Newcastle Medical School, graduating in 2006. B.Med, FRACS, ANZGOSA.

Procedure Information

Sleeve Gastrectomy
70–80% of excess body weight within 12 months, with some achieving up to 100% excess weight loss

Sleeve gastrectomy permanently reduces the size of the stomach by removing 70–80% of it, leaving a sleeve-shaped tube of about 125ml (½ cup) in volume, helping patients feel full sooner while naturally decreasing appetite hormones. The procedure is performed using laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery.

Single Anastomosis (Omega-Loop) Gastric Bypass
75–85% excess weight loss over 12–18 months, with some patients achieving full excess weight loss

Single Anastomosis Gastric Bypass (also known as OAGB or Mini Bypass) is a modern variation of the traditional Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass requiring only one bowel join (anastomosis), reducing operative risk while offering powerful metabolic and weight-loss effects. A small gastric pouch is created and 200 cm of small intestine is bypassed.

Hospital stay: a few nightsRecovery: light activities within 2–3 weeks
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
75–85% of excess weight over 12–18 months, with some achieving complete excess weight loss

RYGB is a bariatric surgery that reduces the stomach size and reroutes part of the small intestine to limit calorie absorption and reduce appetite. Often considered the "gold standard" for patients with severe obesity or specific conditions like chronic gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) and Barrett's oesophagus.

Hospital stay: a few nightsRecovery: Light activities can resume within 2–3 weeks, and full recovery generally takes 6–8 weeks
Gastric Band Removal & Conversion
around 60% excess weight loss at 12 months (for conversion to sleeve)

For patients where a gastric band is no longer effective due to weight regain, reflux, or food intolerance, the band is removed laparoscopically and patients may convert to a sleeve gastrectomy or bypass. Conversion to sleeve is typically performed 10–12 weeks after band removal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sleeve Gastrectomy Right for You?
This procedure is ideal for patients seeking a powerful, effective, and permanent weight-loss solution backed by decades of research and excellent safety outcomes. Our team will guide you through a personalised assessment to determine if the sleeve is the best option for your health, lifestyle, and goals.
After Surgery: What to Expect (Sleeve Gastrectomy)
Following your procedure, our multidisciplinary team will support your recovery and long-term success, including: Nutrition guidance, Eating technique coaching, Exercise and mobility support, Behavioural and psychological assistance, Regular follow-ups to track your progress. Our goal is to help you achieve a healthier, more active life while preventing weight regain.
How does the Single Anastomosis Gastric Bypass work?
This procedure reduces the size of the stomach and reroutes a portion of the small intestine, limiting food intake and nutrient absorption. This leads to significant weight loss, typically 75–85% of excess weight over 12–18 months, while also reducing appetite and changing hunger-related hormones.
What is the recovery like after surgery? (Single Anastomosis Bypass)
Most patients stay in hospital for a few nights and can gradually return to light activities within 2–3 weeks. Long-term follow-up includes dietary guidance, lifestyle support, and regular blood tests to monitor for nutrient deficiencies, ensuring safe and effective weight loss.
How does Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass promote weight loss?
RYGB reduces the stomach size and bypasses a portion of the small intestine, limiting food intake and nutrient absorption. This combination leads to substantial weight loss—typically 75–85% of excess weight over 12–18 months—while also influencing hormones that regulate hunger and satiety.
What is the recovery process like? (Roux-en-Y)
Patients usually stay in hospital for a few nights. Light activities can resume within 2–3 weeks, and full recovery generally takes 6–8 weeks. Post-operative care includes dietary guidance, lifestyle support, and regular blood tests to monitor for nutrient deficiencies like vitamin B12, iron, calcium, and vitamin D.
Are there long-term considerations after RYGB?
Yes. Patients require lifelong follow-up to monitor for nutrient deficiencies and maintain weight loss. Supplements, portion control, and ongoing support from Circle of Care's allied health team are essential to ensure long-term health and successful weight management.
Why would I need a gastric band removed?
A gastric band may need to be removed due to weight regain, reflux (GORD), food intolerance, band slippage, pouch enlargement, or erosion. Some patients experience difficulty tolerating solids, leading to an unhealthy liquid diet, making conversion to another bariatric procedure necessary.

Results

caring for over 6000 patients

0% leakage rate in over 2,163 operations (sleeve gastrectomy)

Fifteen years of safe and effective weight loss surgery with a dedicated team caring for over 6000 patients and achieving outstanding results

Circle of Care is a leading contributor to the Bariatric Surgery Registry

Support Team

Dietitian

Psychologist

Exercise Physiologist

Opening Hours

Saturday: Closed

Sunday: Closed

Monday: 9 am–5 pm

Tuesday: 9 am–5 pm

Wednesday: 9 am–5 pm

Thursday: 9 am–5 pm

Friday: Closed

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