For a decade, Fraser Coast residents seeking a healthier future have found hope in the hands of Dr Mikhail Mastakov, a general and bariatric surgeon at St Stephen’s Hospital in Hervey Bay.
With over 30 years of general surgery experience and the past 12 dedicated to sub-specialising in bariatric surgery, Dr Mastakov has become a trusted specialist offering weight-loss surgery options with a strong focus on long-term health.
“Patients choose weight-loss surgery for a range of health reasons. Losing weight can support patients to improve or resolve their medical problems such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes,” Dr Mastakov said.
Just as the pathway to weight-loss surgery differs for each patient, Dr Mastakov said the choice of procedure is selected based on individual circumstances, with surgery considered the gold standard for those living with serious obesity and multiple medical comorbidities.
“If you haven’t been able to lose weight for a long period of time no matter what you’ve tried, then bariatric surgery exists to help those people,” he said.
Dr Mastakov leads a team that support patients before and after surgery, ensuring they are equipped to make lasting lifestyle changes.
The pathway begins with a GP referral, includes ongoing consultations with a dietitian, and the first consultation with Dr Mastakov is 45 minutes, allowing time to explore options and ensure patients understand what’s involved.
For some, making progress will also involve a psychologist, diabetes educator and exercise physiologist.
“For surgery to be successful in the long-term, it requires patients to make significant lifestyle changes,” he said.
Patients are encouraged to reflect on their progress not just through numbers on a scale, but changes in energy levels and overall wellbeing.
“It can take two or three years to change habits and for new habits to form,” he said.
“The rewards come when you see patients changing and benefiting, and they say thank you, you’ve helped to change my life.”
For more information about Dr Mikhail Mastakov and the services he provides locally, please visit ststephenshospital.com.au
