Obesity Medicine in Melbourne: Evidence-Based Treatment Options

Obesity Is a Medical Condition

Modern medicine now recognises obesity as a complex, chronic medical disease — not a failure of willpower. It involves dysregulation of appetite hormones, metabolic adaptations, genetic predispositions, and environmental factors that make sustained weight loss genuinely difficult without appropriate support.

In Melbourne, Dr Chun Guan Chong provides evidence-based obesity medicine care, drawing on the latest clinical guidelines from the World Obesity Federation, RACGP, and ANZMOSS.

Treatment Options for Obesity in Melbourne

1. Lifestyle Intervention

The foundation of all obesity treatment remains healthy eating and physical activity. However, research consistently shows that lifestyle changes alone have limited long-term effectiveness for most people with obesity, with many patients regaining weight within 1–2 years without additional support.

2. Weight Loss Medications (Pharmacotherapy)

Approved weight loss medications can significantly improve outcomes when combined with lifestyle changes. Dr Chong prescribes a range of pharmacotherapies including:

• GLP-1 Receptor Agonists (semaglutide, liraglutide) — These injectable or oral medications reduce appetite, slow gastric emptying, and help regulate blood sugar. They are among the most effective weight loss medications currently available.
• Combination pharmacotherapy — Other medications may be appropriate depending on your medical history

Medications are not suitable for everyone. A thorough medical assessment is required before prescribing.

3. Very Low Calorie Diets (VLCD)

Medically supervised VLCDs can produce rapid initial weight loss and are sometimes used to prepare patients for surgery or to break a plateau. These should always be undertaken under medical supervision.

4. Bariatric Surgery

For patients with a BMI of 35 or above (or 30+ with significant weight-related health conditions), bariatric surgery offers the most durable long-term weight loss. Options include:

• Sleeve gastrectomy — Removal of approximately 80% of the stomach
• Roux-en-Y gastric bypass — Rerouting of the small intestine
• Adjustable gastric band — A reversible option that requires ongoing adjustments
• Single anastomosis duodenal switch — For severe obesity

Dr Chong works closely with bariatric surgeons across Melbourne and provides pre- and post-operative medical care.

5. Psychological Support

Addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of eating is essential for long-term success. Dr Chong can coordinate referrals to psychologists and eating disorder specialists where appropriate.

A Personalised Approach

No single treatment works for everyone. Dr Chong takes a thorough, individualised approach — assessing your medical history, lifestyle, goals, and preferences before recommending a treatment pathway.

Book an Obesity Medicine Consultation in Melbourne

Contact Medi Weight Loss at (03) 9967 1996 or Knox General Practice at (03) 9100 3130 to book a consultation with Dr Chon Guan Chong.