Oesophageal Dilatation : Helping You Swallow Comfortably
Trouble swallowing can make eating a chore, but we’re here to help get things back on track. At Dr Chris Desmond’s clinic, an oesophageal dilatation is a simple procedure to widen your food pipe (oesophagus) and ease discomfort. Let’s go through what it is, when it’s needed, and how we make it easy for you.
What is an Oesophageal Dilatation?
An oesophageal dilatation is a quick, safe way to open up a narrowed part of your oesophagus, making it easier to swallow. Narrowing can happen because of things like reflux, inflammation, scar tissue, or certain health conditions. We do this during a gastroscopy, using a small camera and tools, while you’re gently sedated in our Melbourne clinic.
With Oesophageal Dilatation Melbourne, Dr Desmond helps you eat and drink more comfortably, usually as a day procedure, so you’re back home the same day.

How We Support You
At South East Gastroenterology & Endoscopy clinic, we’re focused on making your Oesophageal Dilatation Melbourne smooth and stress-free. Here’s what you can expect:

Checking Things First
We use a gastroscopy to find out what’s causing the narrowing and make sure dilatation is the right step for you.

Gentle Widening
We carefully stretch the narrowed spot using a balloon or special tool, all while keeping you comfortable and safe.

Care After the Procedure
We give you clear advice on what to do next, like any medications or lifestyle tips, and plan any follow-up if needed.

Full Process of Oesophageal Dilatation
Here’s a quick look at how an Oesophageal Dilatation works:
At South East Gastroenterology & Endoscopy clinic, an oesophageal dilatation helps if swallowing is tough due to a narrow oesophagus. You’ll fast for 6 hours before the procedure and get clear prep instructions. Arrive on time, bring something to read, and change into a hospital gown at our comfy clinic.
During the Oesophageal Dilatation, you’ll be sedated to feel relaxed. Dr Desmond uses a thin endoscope to check your oesophagus and gently stretches it with a balloon or dilator. It takes 15–30 minutes, and you’ll be comfy throughout.
Afterwards, you’ll rest for about an hour in our clinic, spending 2–4 hours total. Someone needs to drive you home due to sedation. You might have a sore throat or bloating for a day, but Dr Desmond will explain the results and next steps before you leave.
The procedure is safe, but rare risks include minor bleeding, a sore throat, or, very rarely, a tear needing treatment. Dr Desmond will discuss these to ensure Oesophageal Dilatation is right for you.

Book Your Oesophageal Dilatation Today
Don’t let trouble swallowing stop you from enjoying food. An Oesophageal Dilatation at South East Gastroenterology & Endoscopy clinic with Dr Chris Desmond can make eating easier and more comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Curious about Oesophageal Dilatation Melbourne? Click below to learn more:
Will It Hurt?
Will I Need It Again?
For many people, one Oesophageal Dilatation Melbourne is enough to fix the problem for a long time. But some might need another go if the narrowing comes back, depending on the cause. Dr Desmond will explain your situation and whether follow-up treatments are likely.
How long does the relief last?
A: Many people feel better for a long time, but some might need another dilatation later. We’ll let you know what to expect.
Is it risky?
A: It’s a low-risk procedure when done by a specialist like Dr Desmond. We’ll explain any rare risks before starting
Do I need to prepare?
A: Yes, you’ll need to avoid food and drink for a few hours before. We’ll give you clear steps to follow.
What Causes Narrowing?
Narrowing in the oesophagus can happen for a few reasons, like acid reflux irritating the food pipe, scar tissue from injury or surgery, inflammation from conditions like eosinophilic oesophagitis, or even radiation treatments. With Oesophageal Dilatation Melbourne, we pinpoint the cause and help fix it.
When Will I Feel Better?
Most people notice it’s easier to swallow within a day or two after an Oesophageal Dilatation Melbourne. If you had a lot of discomfort before, you might feel relief even sooner. Dr Desmond will check in to make sure you’re doing well and eating comfortably.
How Do I Book?
Ready to make swallowing easier? Booking an Oesophageal Dilatation Melbourne with Dr Chris Desmond is simple:
- Call us at (03) 9885 8100 to talk to our friendly team.
- Book online through our easy booking form.
We’ll find a time that works for you and explain everything you need to know.