Dr. Mark Smith is a general and upper gastrointestinal surgeon with specialist training and experience in laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery of the abdomen and abdominal wall.
Dr. Smith uses the latest laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgical techniques to treat conditions such as hernias, gallstones, reflux, and weight loss surgery for obesity and its complications.
Laparoscopic surgery uses small incisions, cameras, and long instruments to perform surgeries that previously required more invasive open surgery. This allows for faster recovery with less pain and smaller scars.
Bariatric or weight loss surgery is used to help people who are struggling with their weight and related health issues achieve lasting weight loss and significant health improvements. Dr. Smith has been offering bariatric surgery in the Otago/Southland region since 2012.
Laparoscopic techniques are the standard of care for gallbladder surgery. However, their use in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux can free patients from the need for daily medications and significantly improve their quality of life.
Laparoscopic repair of inguinal and other abdominal wall hernias allows for faster recovery, less pain, and a quicker return to work and normal activities compared to traditional open surgery.
Dr. Smith completed his medical school and general surgical training in New Zealand. He then undertook further specialist training in laparoscopic and upper gastrointestinal surgery in Auckland, Edinburgh, Scotland and Portland, USA.
He also holds a Master of Medical Science Degree in evidence-based medicine. Dr. Smith served as a laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgeon at Legacy Good Samaritan Hospital in Portland, Oregon, United States of America from 2009 to 2011 before choosing to return to the Southland to work and raise his family.
His practice is now based at Mercy Hospital in Dunedin and he regularly travels to Invercargill and Queenstown for consultations.
Since March 2022, Dr Smith has also been based at Southern Cross Central Lakes Hospital in Queenstown, where he performs selected procedures.
He is affiliated with the Southern Cross Health Society for hernia surgery, gall bladder surgery, gastroscopy and colonoscopy.
For more information, please visit: Aspiring bariatrics, 0800 377 648481 Don Street, Invercargill