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username888(Initiate)Initiate
23 Nov 2025

After undergoing bariatric surgery 2 months before the world went into a pandemic, and losing access to all of my in person after-care, and pretty much failing, I am in a position now where weight regain has occurred and I am contemplating revision surgery (hoping there is no pandemic again!).


I accessed super for the first surgery, and would like to do this for revision surgery.


Has anyone had experience with having revision surgery costs approved for release on compassionate grounds? I have more significant health issues now than I did the first time so I don't know if that makes a difference at all.

Thank you.


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NikkiATO(Community Moderator)Community Moderator
25 Nov 2025

Hi @username888,


You can apply for early access to your super on compassionate grounds for revision bariatric surgery if you meet the eligibility criteria. The fact that you've previously accessed your super for the initial surgery doesn't prevent you from applying again for revision surgery.


For medical treatment applications, you'll need to show that the revision surgery is necessary to treat a life-threatening illness or injury, acute or chronic pain, or mental illness. Your worsened health conditions since the first surgery may strengthen your application if they support the medical necessity of the revision.


You'll need to provide supporting documents including:

  • a medical report from your treating doctor explaining why the revision surgery is medically necessary
  • quotes or invoices from registered health practitioners for the surgery costs
  • evidence that you can't pay for the treatment through other means.

Each application is assessed individually based on your current circumstances and medical needs. The assessment focuses on whether the treatment meets the compassionate grounds criteria and whether you've exhausted other payment options.

niruben(Newbie)Newbie
11 Dec 2025

It’s understandable to feel concerned after weight regain, especially with disrupted aftercare. Revision bariatric surgery may be considered if your health has worsened or the first procedure didn’t achieve the desired results.


Accessing superannuation on compassionate grounds is possible if you can show the surgery is medically necessary. Approval requires documentation from your surgeon outlining your health issues, previous surgery, and why revision is needed. Each application is assessed individually, so providing thorough medical evidence improves your chances.

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Accessing Super for a 2nd time for Weight Loss revision surgery | ATO Community