Private heart surgery and cardiac care in New Zealand
Heart Surgeon Group offers expert cardiac care at any stage of your health journey, with a specialised surgical team focused on patient wellbeing.
Putting patients at the heart of cardiac care
Heart Surgeon Group began in 2018 with the aim of reducing public waitlists for heart surgery. Since then, we’ve cared for more than 700 public and private patients from our Hamilton clinic. Each patient is different, so we approach every case with fresh eyes, considering your specific heart condition and personal needs, whether that’s cultural preferences, family involvement, or lifestyle goals.
Our focus is simple, to respect the trust placed in us and continue to earn it every day.
Collaborative approach
Surgical excellence
WHAT WE OFFER
Cardiothoracic Services
Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG)
Valve reconstruction and replacement
Aortic surgical reconstruction
Cardiac mass excision
Removal of any abnormal growths or tissue within the heart, with reconstruction to help restore normal structure and function.
Bentall and redo surgery
A procedure to replace the aortic valve, aortic root, and ascending aorta in one operation.
Aortic monitoring clinic
Ongoing imaging and regular specialist reviews for people with dilated or enlarged aortas who don’t yet need surgery.
Wire removals
A minor follow-up procedure to remove sternal wires after previous heart surgery, helping to improve comfort once healing is complete.
Aortic surgical reconstruction
Expansion and replacement of sections of the aorta in order to improve blood flow and prevent future complications.
Patient and referrer pathways
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I'm a patient
Whether you’re newly diagnosed, are looking for a second opinion, or are returning for follow-up care, we're here to walk alongside you.
Learn more about surgery, recovery, and funding options, read frequently asked questions, or book your first consultation.
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I'm a referrer
As private cardiothoracic surgeons, we provide a range of surgeries as well as monitoring for patients who aren't yet ready for surgery.
We’ll take care of all investigations, scheduling, and keep you updated regularly. All referrals reviewed within a week.
Clinical consultation
You’ll meet one of our surgeons to talk through your condition, review any scans, and discuss the best approach for your situation. Telehealth appointments are available on request.
Diagnostic phase
If we need any additional tests or imaging, we’ll arrange these with you. Once we have the complete picture of your heart health, we’ll plan your surgery or monitoring schedule together.
Surgical intervention
Operations are performed at Braemar Hospital in Hamilton by our surgical team, with the support of experienced anaesthetists, perfusionists, and nursing staff.
Recovery
After discharge, you’ll be offered a follow-up with your surgeon around six weeks after your operation, either in person or via Telehealth. In the meantime, you will have access to your cardiac surgeon and our cardiac nurse specialist for any questions during your recovery.
OUR TEAM
Meet the surgeons
Heart Surgeon Group is led by Professor David McCormack and Professor Nishith Patel. Both have trained and worked internationally, and continue to share their knowledge through research, education and mentoring.
Our patients also have the support of our wider team, from the anaesthesiology and nursing staff at Braemar Hospital to the administration and follow-up teams.
David McCormack
Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon
Professor David McCormack specialises in ischaemic heart disease, heart valve surgery, and aortic surgery. He brings extensive experience to his practice and is dedicated to improving outcomes through surgical precision, innovation, and ongoing research.
Nishith Patel
Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon
Professor Nishith Patel specialises in aortic and valve surgery, total arterial revascularisation, and advanced procedures for ischaemic heart disease and atrial fibrillation. He brings extensive experience to his practice and is dedicated to advancing aortic surgery through clinical excellence and ongoing research.
Accredited Insurance
If you have medical insurance, we can guide you throughout the pre-approval process. Just contact us, we're happy to help and give advice on all insurers.
