OUR GOALIs to improve the understanding and acceptance of the role that weight loss surgery plays in the management of obesity and it's associated medical conditions. While at the same time helping our patients achieve their goals of a healthier and fuller life.
We want you to know that we understand that undergoing Bariatric surgery or Weight Loss surgery is not an easy decision for you. You have tried many diets and exercise programmes. We know that weight loss is complex and that maintaining that weight loss can be an even more challenging prospect. So, we work closely with a talented dietician to help empower you on your journey to better health and achieve your weight loss goals.
There are several options for weight loss surgery, including Sleeve gastrectomy or Gastric bypass surgery. So, when you have your initial consultations with our team, we will discuss your journey to date, your motivations, and your goals. So, we will be best able to assist you in choosing the bariatric surgery that suits you best.
Bariatric surgery or weight loss surgery is an effective treatment for obesity and its related medical conditions including:
- Type 2 Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Obesity related Infertility
Mark is an Upper Gastrointestinal surgeon who is passionate about the management of obesity and cancers of the Stomach and Oesophagus.
Mark Grant completed subspecialty training in Oesophagogastric surgery at the University Hospital Southampton. Specialising in the management of benign and malignant conditions affecting the oesophagus and stomach.
Mark Grant worked as a Consultant Oesophagogastric Surgeon at both the University Hospital Southampton and the Queen Alexandra Hospital, Portsmouth. He returned to New Zealand in 2017, completing his Bariatric training at Waitemata DHB where he performed both primary and revision bariatric procedures.
Mark Grant is an Upper Gastrointestinal and Bariatric surgeon appointed at Southern DHB. His clinical interests include:
- Laparoscopic (keyhole) Bariatric surgery for the treatment of obesity and medical conditions related to obesity.
- The management of oesophageal and gastric cancers.
- The investigation and management of benign conditions such as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease and Achalasia.
- Laparoscopic treatment of hernias, and gallstone disease.
- Mark Grant consults at Suite 6, at the Marinoto clinic, and operates at Mercy Hospital.
He has always aimed to provide a high standard of care with an informative patient focus. This website has been designed as an information resource for patients and families.
Please feel free to contact Suite 6, if you require any further information or would like to arrange an appointment with Mr. Mark Grant.
Helen is a NZ Registered Dietitian, who has a specialist interest in weight management and Type 2 diabetes. She is also the owner and principal dietitian in Diet Consulting.
Helen was fortunate to study at Otago and she describes her journey to studying dietetics as “scenic”. Undertaking a qualification in food science along the way. She moved to the UK working as both a community and a primary care dietitian. Working closely with the obesity services, often in a role of outreach and patient advocacy. Helen developed a strong interest in the research around weight bias and discrimination and their negative impact on health.
In New Zealand, she has worked in primary care, providing education to health professionals on nutrition and weight bias. Her private practice was first established in Auckland in 2004. This second iteration is now based in Dunedin after Helen returned to New Zealand to be close to her family in 2014.
Helen and her partner currently live with her mother, who is also a retired dietitian. Her partner has blessed her with two adult stepdaughters. They are all managed by a Tripaw cat called Jack.
“Weight management is complex. Despite the common perception that it’s all about willpower, our actual ability to control how much we eat is limited. We live in an environment where high-energy, poor-quality food is readily available and cheap. It’s also heavily marketed to those of us vulnerable to weight gain. People overeat for many reasons. Some people use food as a tool to regulate emotions or control interactions with others. Understanding your reasons for eating and developing ways of achieving similar goals is part of developing an optimal eating pattern for successful weight loss surgery.”
“Bariatric surgery is only a tool to help you restrict intake, but it doesn’t remove the need to make positive lifestyle changes. It is not a quick fix or an easy answer. People who understand this going into surgery will do far better than those who just “hope for the best.” I recommend spending time exploring your thoughts and beliefs about surgery and your desired outcomes.”
An “individualised” dietary prescription is a small part of achieving great results from weight loss surgery. A dietitian helps transfer that prescription into an actual meal plan that fits with your food preferences and culture. This is a substantial piece of work, as is the problem-solving that goes with it.
The psychological consequences of being overweight can be long-lasting. They can have an impact on your motivation to be physically active or eat regularly. A dietitian can help you to identify how your previous experiences are affecting your decision-making around your lifestyle and create strategies to stay on track.
On working with Mark Grant, weight loss surgeon:
Mark, like me, has had extensive experience in the NHS and has a terrific understanding of holistic care. I like working with medical staff who see allied health professionals as experts in their fields and that is what I see and hear when I talk to Mark. I am looking forward to being on your team alongside Mark as you take your weight loss surgery journey.
FAQs
What are the different types of weight loss surgery?
There are two main categories: restrictive and malabsorptive. Restrictive procedures, like sleeve gastrectomy, reduce the size of the stomach, limiting food intake. Malabsorptive procedures, like gastric bypass, reroute the digestive system, reducing nutrient absorption. Each surgery has its own benefits and risks.
How much weight can I expect to lose?
Weight loss after surgery varies depending on the procedure and your commitment to lifestyle changes. Typically, patients lose 50-60% of their excess weight within the first few years. Long-term success relies on healthy eating habits and regular exercise.
What are the risks of weight loss surgery?
As with any surgery, there are risks involved, including infection, bleeding, and leaks. Malnutrition is also a potential concern, especially with malabsorptive procedures. A qualified surgeon will discuss all potential risks and complications with you before surgery.
Will insurance cover weight loss surgery?
Insurance coverage for weight loss surgery varies depending on your plan and provider. Many insurances require documentation of weight-related health problems and failed weight loss attempts before approving coverage. It’s important to check with your insurance company to understand their specific criteria and coverage details.