Laparoscopic GERD Surgery - Dr. Samir Contractor

Understanding GERD & Its Impact

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most common digestive problems faced by people today. Many patients experience persistent heartburn, regurgitation, chest discomfort, or difficulty swallowing that does not improve with lifestyle changes or medications. Over time, untreated GERD can significantly affect quality of life, disrupt sleep, and even lead to complications such as esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus, or strictures. For patients who continue to suffer despite medications, laparoscopic GERD surgery—also called laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery or Nissen fundoplication—offers a long-term solution. Using minimally invasive techniques, this surgery restores the natural barrier between the stomach and esophagus, reducing reflux and providing lasting relief.

At our practice, we combine over 25 years of surgical expertise, modern laparoscopic technology, and a patient-first philosophy to deliver safe, effective, and compassionate care.

What is Laparoscopic GERD Surgery?

Laparoscopic GERD surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that corrects the underlying cause of acid reflux. Normally, a muscular valve called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) prevents stomach acid from flowing backward into the esophagus. In GERD, this valve becomes weak or relaxed, allowing acid reflux.

The surgery involves wrapping the top portion of the stomach (the fundus) around the lower esophagus to strengthen the valve. This is called a fundoplication. The laparoscopic approach uses small incisions, a camera, and specialized instruments to perform the procedure with minimal trauma.

Common types of laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery include:

Nissen Fundoplication (complete 360° wrap – most common and effective)
Toupet Fundoplication (partial 270° wrap – often used if esophageal motility is weak)
Dor Fundoplication (anterior 180° wrap)
LINX Device Implantation (a magnetic ring placed around the LES for select patients)

Who Should Undergo Laparoscopic GERD Surgery?

Not everyone with heartburn requires surgery. However, surgery may be considered if:

You have chronic GERD symptoms despite medications.
You rely on long-term proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) but symptoms persist.
You have regurgitation, aspiration, or breathing problems due to reflux.

You have developed complications such as esophagitis or Barrett’s esophagus.
You are young and want to avoid lifelong dependence on medications.

A detailed evaluation including endoscopy, pH monitoring, manometry, and imaging—helps determine suitability. We offer a comprehensive preoperative workup to ensure the best surgical outcome.

Benefits of the Laparoscopic Approach

Choosing laparoscopic GERD surgery provides several advantages:

Smaller incisions: Only 4–5 tiny cuts instead of a large open incision.
Less pain: Faster recovery compared to open surgery.
Shorter hospital stay: Most patients go home within 1–2 days.
Quicker return to normal life: Many return to routine activities within a week.
Cosmetic benefit: Minimal scarring.
Long-term relief: High success rate in reducing or eliminating reflux symptoms.

The Procedure

Here’s what you can expect during laparoscopic GERD surgery at our practice:

Anesthesia & Preparation

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia.

Laparoscopic Access

Small incisions are made, and a camera is inserted to guide the surgery.

Hiatal Repair (if needed)

If there is a hiatal hernia (where part of the stomach pushes into the chest), it is repaired.

Fundoplication

The upper stomach (fundus) is wrapped around the esophagus to reinforce the valve.

Closure & Recovery

The small incisions are closed with sutures.

Recovery & Aftercare

One of the most common questions is: “How long does it take to recover from laparoscopic GERD surgery?”

Hospital Stay: 1–2 days.
Initial Diet: Soft or liquid diet for 1–2 weeks.
Return to Work: Within 1–2 weeks for most patients.
Full Recovery: 4–6 weeks.

Patients may feel some temporary swallowing difficulty or bloating, but these usually improve within weeks. Long-term, most patients can enjoy food without the constant worry of reflux.

Lifestyle After GERD Surgery

Eat smaller, frequent meals initially.

Avoid carbonated drinks and very heavy meals in the first few weeks.

Gradually return to normal activity, including light exercise.

Long-term, many patients are able to live completely medication-free.

Risks & Complications

Every surgery carries some risk. With laparoscopic GERD surgery, possible risks include:

Difficulty swallowing (temporary in most cases)
Gas bloating or inability to burp/vomit easily
Hernia recurrence
Rare complications such as bleeding, infection, or injury to nearby organs

Our team has performed over 8,000 laparoscopic surgeries, ensuring a high level of skill and safety. We take every precaution to minimize risks and provide close follow-up care.

Why Choose Us for GERD Surgery?

25+ years of surgical expertise in advanced laparoscopic and bariatric surgery.
Over 8,000 laparoscopic procedures performed successfully.
More than 400 bariatric surgeries, reflecting deep expertise in minimally invasive techniques.

State-of-the-art technology ensuring precision and safety.
Patient-first philosophy – We see each patient as a person, not just a diagnosis.
Compassionate care – from the first consultation to long-term follow-up.

FAQ's for Laparoscopic GERD Surgery

Yes, GERD surgery is considered a major surgery, but with the laparoscopic approach, recovery is much faster and less painful compared to open surgery.

Success rates are high, with 80–90% of patients experiencing long-term relief from reflux symptoms.

In most cases, yes. Surgery strengthens the valve mechanism and provides lasting relief. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important for best results.

The procedure usually takes 1–2 hours.

It is the most common anti-reflux surgery where the upper stomach is wrapped completely (360°) around the esophagus to strengthen the valve.

Yes, it is a well-established, safe, and effective surgery when performed by experienced surgeons.

Yes, in select cases such as severe reflux unresponsive to other treatments, fundoplication may be considered for children.

Most patients return to normal activities within 1–2 weeks, with complete healing in about 4–6 weeks.

Initially, you will be on a soft or liquid diet. Gradually, you can return to a normal diet, and most patients can enjoy all foods without significant restrictions.

Yes, most patients live a normal, medication-free life after recovery.

Eat smaller meals.
Avoid overeating.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Limit carbonated drinks initially.

Some patients may experience bloating, difficulty burping, or mild swallowing issues, but these often improve with time.