Fundoplication Surgery Sydney – Reflux & Hiatus Hernia Specialist
Specialist Fundoplication Surgery in Sydney
Fundoplication is a surgical procedure used to treat chronic reflux (GORD), particularly when symptoms persist despite medication or when a hiatus hernia is present.
While medications can reduce acid production, they do not correct the underlying anatomical problem. For some patients, this leads to ongoing symptoms, dependence on long-term medication, or complications such as oesophagitis.
Fundoplication surgery restores the natural barrier between the stomach and oesophagus, helping to prevent reflux and improve long-term symptom control.
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.
Call 02 9565 5514 to book a consultation with Dr David Joseph. Urgent appointments are available.
Reflux Surgery in Sydney - When Is It Needed?
Reflux surgery may be considered when symptoms persist despite medication or when long-term treatment is required to control reflux.
While medications reduce acid production, they do not correct the underlying anatomical problem. In some patients, this results in ongoing symptoms, recurrence when medication is stopped, or complications such as oesophagitis.
Surgical treatment, most commonly fundoplication, restores the natural barrier between the stomach and oesophagus and may provide long-term symptom control.
When to consider specialist assessment
If you are experiencing ongoing reflux symptoms, dependence on medication, or concerns about long-term management, a specialist surgical opinion can help determine whether reflux surgery is appropriate.
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 selected cases
The procedure is usually performed laparoscopically (keyhole surgery), allowing smaller incisions, faster recovery, and less post-operative discomfort.
Dr David Joseph provides reflux surgery in Sydney using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques tailored to each patient.
Is Fundoplication Surgery Right For You?
Fundoplication may be recommended when:
Reflux symptoms persist despite optimal medical management
Long-term medication is required to control symptoms
A hiatus hernia contributes to reflux
Complications such as oesophagitis or Barrett’s oesophagus are present
You prefer a long-term solution rather than ongoing medication
Patients with reflux related to a hiatus hernia may require combined hernia repair and fundoplication. Learn more about Reflux (GORD) treatment in Sydney and Hiatus Hernia Repair Sydney.
Benefits of Fundoplication Surgery
Significant reduction or complete resolution of reflux symptoms
Reduced or eliminated need for long-term medication
Correction of the underlying anatomical cause of reflux
Minimally invasive (keyhole) surgery with faster recovery
Durable long-term results for appropriately selected patients
Long-term studies show high rates of symptom control and patient satisfaction following fundoplication surgery.
Laparoscopic Fundoplication Procedure
Key features of laparoscopic fundoplication performed by Dr David Joseph include:
Small keyhole incisions, minimising scarring
Use of advanced laparoscopic techniques
Typically day surgery or overnight stay
Simultaneous repair of hiatus hernia if present
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 (Randwick)
Mater Hospital (North Sydney)
East Sydney Private Hospital (Woolloomooloo)
Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (Camperdown)
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 upper GI expertise
Focus on minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques
Personalised assessment and tailored surgical approach
Care delivered across leading Sydney hospitals
Coordination with Reflux (GORD) and Hiatus Hernia management
Dr Joseph specialises in upper gastrointestinal surgery, ensuring careful patient selection and tailored surgical approach for optimal outcomes.
Call 02 9565 5514 to book a consultation with Dr David Joseph. Urgent appointments are available.
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).
Dr Joseph is a fellowship-trained specialist Upper GI surgeon.
Learn more about Dr David Joseph →
