Dr Ian Baxter
M.B.B.S F.R.A.C.S Upper Gastrointestinal and Metabolic Surgeon General & Laparoscopic Surgeon
Experienced Bariatric Surgeon on the Sunshine Coast
Dr Ian Baxter is one of the most experienced bariatric surgeons on the Sunshine Coast, with more than 30 years of surgical experience and over 4,000 successful weight loss procedures performed since 1998. As a specialist in bariatric, upper gastrointestinal, and hernia surgery, Dr Baxter is known for his patient-focused approach and exceptional clinical outcomes.
He leads the surgical team at the Sunshine Coast Medical Weight Loss Centre, offering personalised and evidence-based weight loss surgery solutions, including gastric sleeve, mini gastric bypass, and revisional bariatric surgery.
Areas of Expertise in Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric Surgery
Specialising in procedures such as Gastric Sleeve, Gastric Bypass, and Revisional Bariatric Surgery, gastric banding and gastric balloon in certain cases.
Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery
Expertise in managing conditions of the upper digestive tract.
Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery
Proficient in minimally invasive techniques for hernia repair.
Our Bariatric & Weight Loss Surgery Services
Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy or Gastric Sleeve surgery uses a stapling device to remove two-thirds of the stomach. This effective and irreversible procedure is carried out using keyhole or laparoscopic surgery and results in a tube or sleeve-shaped stomach with a 100ml to 200ml capacity. It works by restricting the amount you can eat and by making you feel full sooner.
A Mini Gastric Bypass or Omega Loop Mini-Bypass first divides the stomach into two sections to create a smaller stomach pouch. This is then connected directly to the mid-section of the small intestine, bypassing the first part of the small intestine. Results come from limiting the amount of food you can eat as well as reducing the number of kilojoules that are absorbed. This procedure is performed laparoscopically through five small incisions.
In some cases, due to weight regain or complications, patients may need follow-up surgery to the initial procedure. This can apply whether you’ve had Gastric Band, Sleeve or Mini-Bypass surgery. If so, we work with you to address any setbacks and get your health journey back on track.
A Gastric Balloon is a short-term, non-surgical weight-loss procedure, performed via endoscopy. It involves inserting an inflatable silicone balloon into your stomach. This is then inflated using saline and stays in place for 6 months before being removed. It works by making you feel full sooner so that you eat less.
Laparoscopic or Gastric Banding is an effective, reversible procedure that uses a band to divide the stomach into two parts. This makes the stomach smaller so you feel full after eating less food. This minimally invasive procedure also puts pressure on the nerves in the upper part of your stomach, signalling the brain that you are not feeling hungry.
Meet the Rest of the Team
Are you ready to find out more?
Call us today for a complimentary 30-minute consultation with our Bariatric Nurse Educator or one of our Bariatric coordinators.