Find lasting relief from chronic heartburn with acid reflux surgery. At BetterLife Surgery, Dr Mo Atalla offers advanced surgical solutions to treat acid reflux, helping you regain comfort and enjoy food without pain. Book a consultation to explore your options today.
Reduce chronic heartburn and improve comfort
Acid reflux surgery is a procedure that treats chronic gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) when medication and lifestyle changes are not enough. It aims to prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the oesophagus, reducing heartburn, regurgitation, and discomfort. Dr Mo Atalla performs laparoscopic surgery, such as fundoplication, to strengthen the lower oesophageal sphincter. This minimally invasive surgery offers long-term relief, ensuring improved quality of life and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
*Individual Results May Vary
Acid reflux surgery treats:
- Chronic gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) unresponsive to medication
- Severe heartburn and acid regurgitation
- Persistent cough or throat irritation caused by reflux
- Difficulty swallowing due to oesophageal damage
- Chest pain related to acid reflux (not heart-related)
- Sleep disturbances caused by nighttime reflux
- Oesophagitis (inflammation of the oesophagus)
- Barrett’s oesophagus (a precancerous condition linked to chronic reflux)
- Recurrent aspiration pneumonia due to acid inhalation
How does acid reflux surgery work?
Acid reflux surgery strengthens the barrier between the stomach and oesophagus to prevent acid from flowing back up. The most common procedure, fundoplication, involves wrapping the upper part of the stomach (fundus) around the lower oesophagus.
This reinforces the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), which normally prevents reflux. When the LES is weak, stomach acid escapes into the oesophagus, causing heartburn. By tightening this muscle, surgery restores its function, reducing reflux and allowing food to pass normally into the stomach.
Potential side effects or risks of acid reflux surgery:
- Difficulty swallowing (temporary while the oesophagus adjusts)
- Bloating or increased gas (due to changes in digestion)
- Inability to burp or vomit easily
- Temporary nausea or discomfort after eating
- Altered bowel habits, including diarrhoea or constipation
- Feeling full quickly after meals
- Mild pain or discomfort at incision sites (if laparoscopic)
- Temporary sore throat or hoarseness (due to anaesthesia)
- Risk of recurrence of reflux symptoms over time
- Rare complications such as infection, bleeding, or injury to surrounding organs
Acid reflux surgery FAQs
Who is a Suitable Candidate for Acid Reflux Surgery?
Acid reflux surgery is recommended for individuals with severe gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) that does not improve with medication or lifestyle changes. It is also considered for those with complications such as oesophagitis, Barrett’s oesophagus, or reflux-related respiratory issues.
Is Acid Reflux Surgery Performed Laparoscopically?
Yes, most acid reflux surgeries are performed laparoscopically (keyhole surgery). This minimally invasive technique involves small incisions, reducing pain, scarring, and recovery time compared to traditional open surgery.
How Long Does the Surgery Take?
Acid reflux surgery typically takes one to two hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the patient’s individual condition.
What is the Recovery Time After Surgery?
Most patients can go home within one to two days after laparoscopic surgery and return to light activities within a week. Full recovery and return to normal eating habits usually take about four to six weeks.
Will I Still Need to Take Acid Reflux Medication After Surgery?
Most patients experience significant symptom relief and no longer need reflux medication. However, a small percentage may require occasional antacids or long-term medication for mild symptoms.
Can Acid Reflux Return After Surgery?
While acid reflux surgery provides long-term relief, some patients may experience a recurrence of symptoms over time. Lifestyle choices, diet, and weight management play key roles in maintaining the surgery’s effectiveness.
Why choose Dr Mo Atalla?
Dr Mo Atalla is a highly experienced surgeon and a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) who specialises in minimally invasive acid reflux surgery. Using advanced laparoscopic techniques, he restores normal function to the lower oesophageal sphincter, preventing acid from flowing back into the oesophagus. Schedule a consultation today to explore your treatment options and take the first step towards lasting relief.
