We specialize in bariatric surgery and other surgical solutions for those who have exhausted other weight loss options. You can trust our bariatric team to guide you every step of the way, from preparing for surgery through recovery and on to healthy living.
Bariatric surgery includes techniques that change the amount of food the stomach can hold. In turn, the body absorbs fewer calories and nutrients, which can result in dramatic weight loss.
Considering surgery for weight loss?
Our free weight loss surgery seminars are an opportunity for you to learn about surgical options in a safe and compassionate environment. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge to make the decision that's right for you. We'll help you evaluate your readiness for surgery, understand the types of bariatric procedures and navigate your insurance coverage. You’ll learn about our weight loss services, meet the bariatrics team and get answers to your questions. Register now to begin your journey!
If you prefer, you may watch a video of our seminar. This short video is designed to give you all of the information you need to understand the process, risks and results of bariatric surgery from the comfort and privacy of your home.
What are my bariatric surgery options?
All our bariatric procedures are laparoscopic, or minimally-invasive, and are performed by our bariatric surgeons. You will need to call your local hospital to learn which of the below options are available in your area. The most common surgeries include:
Adjustable Gastric Banding
Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding restricts or reduces the size of the stomach without cutting it. The surgeon places a silicone band around the top part of the stomach, dividing it in two. The smaller part holds the food eaten and the patient feels full quickly. The rest of the stomach still secretes the fluids that aid digestion. Later the doctor can loosen or tighten the silicone band according to weight loss progress and the sensation of fullness.
Roux-en-Y gastic bypass
The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass procedure helps patients lose weight in two ways:
By reducing the size of the stomach By limiting the nutrients that the intestines can absorb
The surgeon divides the stomach, creating a pouch – about the size of an egg – that feels full after eating a small amount of food. The larger portion of the stomach and a portion of the small intestine are bypassed and reconnected in a Y-shaped configuration. The shortened length of intestine absorbs fewer calories and nutrients.
Sleeve Gastrectomy
Sleeve gastrectomy is a restrictive bariatric procedure that permanently reduces the size of the stomach by about 85 percent. The larger, rounded part of the stomach is removed, leaving a small sleeved-shaped portion about the size and shape of a banana. Though the stomach is smaller, digestion and absorption of nutrients go on as normal. Some patients also may have duodenal switch surgery that reduces absorption of calories and nutrients by shortening the length of intestine that food passes through.
To qualify for bariatric surgery, you must have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or greater, or have a BMI of 35 with other health issues related to obesity, with obesity being defined as being 100 pounds or more overweight.
There are several requirements you must meet before you can proceed with the actual surgical procedure.
Step 1 – Education
You will achieve better weight-loss success if you take an active role in learning about and planning your procedure. Take advantage of every opportunity to learn about bariatric surgery. The best resource is our free weight loss surgery seminars, required by most insurance plans.
Smoking increases the chance of blood clots, pneumonia, heart attack, leaks and other complications after surgery. If you smoke, it’s time to improve your health.
Step 3 – Insurance coverage
An important step toward weight loss surgery is meeting all insurance requirements for coverage. Insurance providers and plans vary in coverage of bariatric surgery, so contact your insurance provider and ask for your policy information. Often, the insurance provider will have a strict list of requirements for you to meet before surgery can be scheduled.
Step 4 – Health screenings and evaluation
Many insurance companies require you to complete a psychological evaluation, medical evaluations, sleep studies or other screenings before you can schedule bariatric surgery. This will be part of the care plan designed for you, and we’re here to help you schedule these appointments.
Step 5 – Nutritional evaluation
Most insurance plans require you to take part in a dietary plan for three months before surgery will be approved. Speak with one of our bariatric team members to help you get started.
Step 6 – Meet your bariatric surgeon
Once you have completed all of the requirements of our program and your insurance provider, you’re ready to schedule a meeting with your surgeon to determine an effective type of surgery. When this meeting is complete, you’ll be able to schedule your surgery date.
