Fundoplication Surgery Sydney - Surgical Treatment for Reflux and Hiatus Hernia

Specialist Fundoplication Surgery in Sydney

Fundoplication is a surgical procedure designed to treat chronic acid reflux (GORD) and associated hiatus hernia by reinforcing the lower oesophageal sphincter, preventing stomach acid from flowing back into the oesophagus.

Dr David Joseph is a Sydney based specialist general surgeon with extensive expertise in minimally invasive laparoscopic fundoplication, offering personalised assessment and surgical care across Sydney and surrounding areas.

What Is Fundoplication?

Fundoplication involves wrapping the upper part of the stomach (fundus) around the lower oesophagus to strengthen the natural barrier against acid reflux.

Types of fundoplication include:

• Nissen Fundoplication (360° wrap): Complete wrap for severe reflux.

• Partial Fundoplication (Toupet or Dor, 270°–300° wrap): Partial wrap for specific cases.

The procedure is usually performed laparoscopically, allowing smaller incisions, faster recovery, and less post-operative discomfort.

Who Needs Fundoplication Surgery?

Fundoplication may be recommended when:

• Symptoms persist despite optimal medical management

• Long-term proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are required

• A hiatus hernia contributes to reflux

• Complications from reflux, such as oesophagitis or Barrett’s oesophagus, are present

• Patients prefer a long-term solution rather than chronic medication

Fundoplication treats chronic acid reflux (GORD) that has not responded to medication. Read about Reflux (GORD) Treatment in Sydney here. Patients with a hiatus hernia causing persistent reflux may be recommended for Hiatus Hernia Repair Sydney.

Benefits of Fundoplication Surgery

• Significant reduction or elimination of reflux symptoms

• Decreased reliance on long-term acid-suppressing medications

• Correction of associated hiatus hernia when present

• Minimally invasive procedure for faster recovery

• Improved quality of life and reduced long-term complications

Laparoscopic Fundoplication Procedure

Key features of laparoscopic fundoplication performed by Dr David Joseph include:

• Small keyhole incisions, minimising scarring

• Use of advanced laparoscopic instruments

• Typically performed as day surgery or overnight stay depending on complexity

• Careful intraoperative assessment of hiatal anatomy and any hernia repair

This approach allows most patients to return to normal activities within a few weeks.

In some patients, a hiatus hernia contributes to reflux, and fundoplication may be combined with hernia repair. Learn more about Hiatus Hernia Repair Sydney here.

Recovery After Fundoplication Surgery

• Overnight hospital stay or short admission

• Gradual return to soft diet over 2–4 weeks

• Light activity within days, full activity in 4–6 weeks

• Post-operative follow-up to ensure symptom resolution and healing

Most patients experience dramatic improvement in reflux symptoms and reduced dependence on medication.

Fundoplication Surgery Across Sydney

Dr David Joseph consults from his clinic in Newtown and offers Telehealth consultations where appropriate. Surgery is performed at leading private and public hospitals across Sydney, including:

• Prince of Wales Private Hospital in Randwick

• Mater Hospital in North Sydney

• East Sydney Private Hospital in Woolloomooloo

• Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Camperdown / Newtown

• Concord Hospital in Concord

This ensures patients across the Eastern Suburbs, Inner West, North Shore, and wider Sydney can access expert care close to home.

Why Choose Dr David Joseph for Fundoplication Surgery?

• Specialist general surgeon with extensive laparoscopic upper GI experience

• Personalised surgical assessment and care planning

• Minimally invasive techniques for faster recovery and reduced pain

• Care delivered across leading private and public hospitals in Sydney

• Coordination with Reflux (GORD) and Hiatus Hernia management

Fundoplication Surgery FAQs - Sydney Patients Ask

What is the difference between fundoplication and reflux medication?
Fundoplication is a surgical procedure that corrects the valve between the stomach and oesophagus to prevent acid reflux. Medications, such as PPIs, control symptoms temporarily but do not fix the underlying anatomical problem. Dr Joseph can advise whether surgery is the best option for your reflux in Sydney.

How long is recovery after fundoplication surgery?
Most patients return to light activity within a few days and resume normal activities within 4–6 weeks. Recovery may be faster with laparoscopic surgery, and follow-up visits ensure proper healing.

Is fundoplication surgery safe?
Yes. Laparoscopic fundoplication has a strong safety profile when performed by an experienced upper GI surgeon like Dr Joseph. Minimally invasive techniques reduce pain, scarring, and recovery time compared with open surgery.

Will surgery cure my reflux?
Most patients experience significant reduction or complete resolution of reflux symptoms, especially when fundoplication is performed alongside a hiatus hernia repair if needed. Individual outcomes depend on anatomy and severity of reflux.

Do I need fundoplication if I have a hiatus hernia?
Not always. A hiatal hernia may require repair alone or in combination with fundoplication, depending on reflux severity, anatomy, and symptoms. Dr Joseph will provide a personalised assessment.

Where is fundoplication surgery performed in Sydney?
Dr Joseph performs fundoplication at private hospitals in Randwick, North Sydney, and Woolloomooloo, as well as public hospitals in Camperdown (RPA) and Concord. Hospital choice can be discussed during your consultation.

Are there risks or complications with fundoplication surgery?
As with any surgery, risks include bleeding, infection, difficulty swallowing, gas bloating, or reflux recurrence. Serious complications are uncommon when performed by an experienced Sydney surgeon.

What pre-operative tests are required?
Patients usually need a referral from a GP or specialist. Tests may include endoscopy, barium swallow, oesophageal manometry, pH studies, and routine blood tests to ensure suitability for surgery.

What lifestyle or diet changes are recommended after surgery?
Patients should gradually progress diet, avoid large meals initially, and follow Dr Joseph’s advice on weight management and reflux reduction. Lifestyle changes help maintain surgical results and improve long-term outcomes.

How does insurance and costs work for fundoplication surgery?
Medicare rebates and private health insurance coverage are discussed during consultation. Costs depend on hospital choice, type of surgery, and individual patient factors. Dr Joseph’s team provides guidance to help you plan financially before surgery.

When should I see a Sydney surgeon for reflux symptoms?
Seek evaluation if you experience persistent heartburn, regurgitation, chest discomfort, or difficulty swallowing. Early assessment by Dr Joseph can prevent complications and determine if surgery is needed.

CLICK HERE for information about Reflux (GORD).