About Dr. Michael von Papen
Fellowship-trained colorectal surgeon dedicated to excellence in patient care
Specialist Colorectal & General Surgeon
Dr Michael von Papen consults privately at Gold Coast Specialist Surgeons, located within Gold Coast Private Hospital. He is also an integral part of the Colorectal Surgery Unit at Gold Coast University Hospital (GCUH), where he supervises two Colorectal Surgery Fellows and several trainee surgeons.
With more than twenty years of experience, he combines technical precision with a calm, empathetic approach. He understands that bowel symptoms and the prospect of surgery can be worrying, and takes time to ensure each patient feels informed, reassured, and supported.
Fluent in both English and German.
Training & Background
Dr von Papen graduated in Medicine from the University of Queensland and gained Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in 2002. He then completed subspecialty fellowship training with the Colorectal Surgical Society of Australia and New Zealand, and was later admitted as a Fellow (FCSSANZ).
He currently serves as Program Director of the Training Board in Colon and Rectal Surgery at GCUH, and holds an academic appointment as Associate Professor of Surgery at Griffith University, mentoring medical students, surgical trainees, and research fellows.
Professional Memberships
Associate Professor
Special Interests
Areas of particular expertise and focus
"Surgery is never just about the operation itself — it's also about understanding your diagnosis, building trust, and ensuring you recover safely and confidently."— Assoc. Prof. Michael von Papen