Weight Loss Surgery

Weight loss surgery

When diet, exercise, and medication aren’t working, weight loss surgery may be an option for controlling excess weight. Research shows that weight loss surgery is the most effective way to achieve long-term weight loss. The benefits go beyond what you see on the scale. It can also improve a wide range of other health issues, such as diabetes, heart disease and sleep apnea. Patients who undergo bariatric surgery often experience improvements in energy, mobility, self esteem and overall health.

Our bariatric surgeons are highly skilled in performing successful weight loss procedures. Using minimally invasive techniques whenever possible, we offer the following procedures:

• Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: During this procedure, the surgeon creates a small pouch at the top of the stomach and connects it directly to the small intestine. This helps to control appetite and regulate your metabolism.
• Sleeve gastrectomy: During this procedure, a surgeon removes about 80% of the stomach, leaving a long, tube-like pouch. Similar to gastric bypass, this surgery reduces appetite and helps with metabolic regulation.

Bariatric surgery may be an option for adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more. If you have other serious health conditions, such as diabetes, high cholesterol, sleep apnea or heart disease, bariatric surgery may be beneficial if your BMI is between 35 and 40. If your BMI is below 35, you will not qualify for surgery.

Above sleeve gastrectomy

The laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, often referred to as the “sleeve,” involves removing approximately 80% of the stomach. The remaining portion of the stomach is reshaped to resemble a banana. During the procedure, the stomach is carefully separated from the surrounding organs. Surgical staplers are then used to remove the majority of the stomach, significantly reducing its size.

This new, smaller stomach can hold less food and liquid, which helps reduce the overall intake of calories. Additionally, by removing the part of the stomach that produces most of the “hunger hormone,” the surgery has a positive effect on metabolism. It decreases feelings of hunger, increases feelings of fullness, and helps the body achieve and maintain a healthy weight. This procedure also aids in controlling blood sugar levels. The simplicity of the operation contributes to its safety, as it avoids potential complications associated with surgeries involving the small intestine.

Medically supervised weight management program

Our medically supervised weight management program is on your side with the support of an experienced team to guide you through your weight loss journey. Our multidisciplinary approach combines exercise, dietary adjustments, behavioral treatments that motivate lifestyle changes and education.

Please also refer to the following FAQ section for more information about our program:

What is morbid obesity?

Morbid obesity is a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or more, which is roughly equal to 100 pounds or more over ideal body weight. The disease of morbid obesity interferes with basic physical functions such as breathing or walking. Long-term effects of the disease include shorter life expectancy, serious health consequences in the form of weight-related health problems (co-morbid conditions) such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease, and a lower quality of life with fewer economic and social opportunities.

What causes morbid obesity?

The causes of morbid obesity are multiple and complex. Despite conventional wisdom, it is not simply a result of overeating. Research has shown that, in many cases, significant, underlying causes of morbid obesity are genetic, environmental, and social. Studies have demonstrated that, once the problem is established, efforts such as dieting and exercise programs have a limited ability to provide effective long-term relief.

What is a co-morbid condition?

There are two definitions for a co-morbid condition: the presence of one or more disorder or disease in addition to a primary disorder or disease; or, the presence of a disorder or disease that is caused by or otherwise related to another condition in the same patient. The primary disease of morbid obesity can lead to several co-morbid conditions.

What is bariatric surgery?

Bariatric surgery is a procedure designed to make the stomach smaller so the patient feels satisfied with less food. It is intended for people who are 100 pounds or more overweight (with a Body Mass Index of 40 or greater) and who have not had success with other weight loss therapies such as diet, exercise, medications, etc. A person with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 or greater and one or more co-morbid condition also may qualify for bariatric surgery.

What is Body Mass Index (BMI)?

BMI is a measure used to index a person’s height and weight. BMI allows healthcare professionals and patients to better understand health issues associated with a specific weight classification (classifications such as obesity and morbid obesity).

How do I know if I qualify for bariatric surgery?

Patients should have:

• A BMI of 40 or greater
• A BMI of 35 or greater with one or more co-morbid condition
• Long term weight loss is more achievable if you are not going it alone. We are here to help. Fill out our questionnaire to learn whether you qualify for our medically-supervised weight management program.

Getting started on your bariatric surgery journey

We’re here to help you start your journey to better health. We offer a free online seminar to explain every step of the weight loss process and what you can expect. Fill out our online registration by filling out the form on this page.

When you are ready to begin your weight loss surgery, please follow these steps:

• Step 1: Fill out our online registration to attend a seminar. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with more details and a link to view the online seminar. Please watch the entire seminar.
• Step 2: Complete the new patient paperwork and the patient dietician questionnaire. Fill out both forms and bring them to your initial consultation.
• Step 3: Verify your insurance. Please call your insurance company to verify bariatric and weight management benefits. Click here for details.

Weight Loss Surgery Locations