Richard Flint

30/01/2026

Colonoscopy can be intimidating but it’s also your frontline defence against colorectal cancer. Here’s why you should take it seriously:
‒ Cuts by half your risk of cancer: a meta-analysis of over 4.7 million people found that colonoscopy is linked to a ~52% reduction in new colorectal cancer cases and a ~62% drop in deaths from it.
‒ Cancer early-stage treatment: colonoscopies don’t just detect cancer; they remove polyps before they can become dangerous. Long-term registry data suggests early removal could prevent 75-90% of future colorectal cancers.
‒ Safe, accessible, and reassuring: colonoscopy is widely available and safe. Whether you have symptoms, a family history, or just want peace of mind, it’s the gold standard for early detection and prevention.

Don’t let a colonoscopy intimidate you, it could save your life. Get in touch with me to get it sorted: https://richardflintsurgery.co.nz/get-in-touch

23/01/2026

If you’re thinking about weight loss surgery, getting it done early is a game-changer. Here’s why:
‒ Long-lasting results: a study from 2024 found that bariatric surgery resulted in nearly twice the long-term weight loss compared with medical management (20% vs 8% at 7 years; 19.3% vs 10.8% at 12 years).
‒ Health benefits beyond weight loss: the surgery helps reduce blood sugar, cholesterol, and control diabetes and high blood pressure.
‒ 2025 update: new data shows these benefits last, supporting the idea that early surgery leads to better health and less risk of future complications.

Early bariatric surgery can mean a healthier future! Get in touch with me today to get it sorted: https://richardflintsurgery.co.nz/get-in-touch

08/01/2026

Hernias require proactive care to prevent them from worsening over time. If left untreated, they can cause increasing pain and may make surgery more complex. They can also become a growing inconvenience in your day-to-day life. With early repair, recovery is usually quicker and smoother.

So, if you’ve noticed a bulge or have been putting off treatment for a groin hernia, get in touch with me. Early consultation leads to better outcomes and peace of mind. https://richardflintsurgery.co.nz/get-in-touch

22/12/2025

There’s been a lot of talk lately about people travelling overseas for weight-loss surgery after yet another failed procedure.

The issue is that a surgeon, in certain countries overseas, can be considered as “qualified” after performing only 15 bariatric surgeries and attending a two-day seminar. They also provide very limited after care, often only a few days before flying back home.

In comparison, NZ bariatric surgeons train for years and provide long-term follow-up, which is essential for safe, lasting results. During my fellowship in Boston, for example, I performed over 300 gastric bypasses under supervision before returning home.

If you’re considering surgery, get in touch for expert care close to home. https://richardflintsurgery.co.nz/get-in-touch

15/12/2025

A recent study published in JAMA Surgery found that patients who underwent a bariatric surgery lose more weight (28%) compared to patients using GLP-1 RA medications, such as Trulicity and Wegovy (10%) after two years. The former also save an average of US$11k thanks to lower sustained pharmacy costs.

If you’re considering weight-loss surgery, get in touch with me. https://richardflintsurgery.co.nz/get-in-touch

View the study here: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/ jamasurgery/fullarticle/2839126

08/12/2025

🧍For men: if the hernia is small (< 3 cm), and therefore easily reducible and asymptomatic, repair surgery is not urgent. However, the hernia will continue to grow and should be treated within three to seven years.

🧍For women: groin hernias should all be repaired as soon as possible, as it can be a femoral hernia – a type with a higher risk of complications.

Let’s get your hernia repair surgery sorted: https://richardflintsurgery.co.nz/get-in-touch

18/11/2025

When repairing a hernia, I can use a small mesh patch to strengthen the weak area in the abdominal wall. This is called a mesh hernia repair and can help provide long- lasting support and lower the chance of the hernia coming back.

Most patients experience less discomfort after surgery and return to normal activities sooner compared to traditional suture-only repairs.

If you’d like to know whether a mesh hernia repair is right for you, get in touch to discuss your options:
richardflintsurgery.co.nz/get-in-touch

11/11/2025

Gallstones can cause sudden pain in the upper abdomen and keep you from doing the things you enjoy. The only effective treatment is surgery, as these stones don’t pass away by themselves.

To help you get back to what you love, I can perform the surgery within two weeks of booking your appointment. Recovery usually takes up to ten weeks, and the nursing team and I will ensure you receive the best post-op care throughout.

Get in touch to get back to your hobbies as soon as possible: richardflintsurgery.co.nz/get-in-touch

04/11/2025

Unexplained bowel symptoms, such as blood loss, unusual pain, or changes in bowel habits should be taken seriously and be investigated with a colonoscopy.

That’s why I ensure patients are seen quickly: appointments can be arranged within 24 hours, consultations take place within two weeks, and a clear diagnosis is typically available within six weeks of booking.

If you’re experiencing concerning symptoms, or have a family history or genetic risk of bowel cancer, early investigation can make all the difference.

Get in touch to get it sorted: richardflintsurgery.co.nz/get-in-touch

24/10/2025

With over 20 years of experience at some of the world’s leading hospitals, I’ve come to understand that taking the time beforehand to provide clear answers, and offering thorough aftercare, is as essential as the procedure itself.

If you’re experiencing unusual abdominal or digestive pain, get in touch. richardflintsurgery.co.nz/get-in-touch

21/10/2025

Weight loss can be a challenging journey. While diets and lifestyle changes may help, long-lasting results are hard to achieve. That’s where weight loss surgery can offer a solution.

Bypass or sleeve? Let’s discuss which option is right for you.
richardflintsurgery.co.nz/get-in-touch

16/10/2025

Surgery can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to. My new website provides simple guides and videos to help you understand what each procedure involves, and what to expect before and after.

Find your answers here: https://richardflintsurgery.co.nz/

If you’re noticing any abdominal or bowel pain, or other changes in your digestion that are out of the ordinary, I may be able to help.