Services
Bariatric and Weight Loss Care
Solutions for losing weight and lasting change
At Adventist Health Glendale, we know that losing weight is more than just numbers – it's about your health, happiness, and overall well-being. We also know that achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is one of the hardest things to do on your own. If you’ve struggled with obesity, turn to our Weight Management Program. We offer both surgical and non-surgical solutions tailored to your needs along with expert, compassionate support to help you succeed for good.
Non-surgical solutions
Revolutionary new pharmaceuticals have proven effective in helping individuals who need to lose weight for health reasons but have struggled with achieving results through diet and exercise. We can determine if you qualify for these medications and authorize prescriptions. We can also support you with nutritional counseling and fitness guidance as an alternative or in conjunction with your medication. Whichever route you take, we’ll help you stay on track through ongoing assessments, and any necessary adjustments to your plan.
Bariatric surgery
A surgical solution (called bariatric surgery) is designed to change the size and structure of your stomach in order to reduce appetite and food intake. We have extensive experience in this type of surgery and offer three surgical options that have different advantages. Our board-certified bariatric surgeons will walk you through each option, help you decide the best approach for you, and ensure you feel confident in moving forward. We also offer bariatric revision surgery for patients who have experienced issues with a prior surgery. Learn more about your options below.
Gastric bypass surgery
With this procedure, a small stomach pouch is created, and a portion of the small intestine is bypassed. This new digestive system limits your food intake to help you feel full sooner and reduces calorie absorption. Gastric bypass is performed laparoscopically, using small incisions for a minimally invasive approach. Most patients stay in the hospital for two to three days for recovery and monitoring.
While this procedure is not reversible, it is highly effective in producing rapid, and sustained weight loss. Most patients can expect to lose 60-70% of excess weight within the first year after surgery. Many patients experience remission of obesity related diseases such as type 2 diabetes. Patients are encouraged to take vitamin supplements, continue exercising, and eat healthy meals for optimal success.
Sleeve gastrectomy
With this procedure, about 85 percent of the stomach is removed, leaving a small tube-shaped stomach that holds significantly less food. This not only helps with portion control but also reduces hunger by removing the part of the stomach that produces ghrelin, the hormone responsible for triggering appetite.
The sleeve gastrectomy is performed laparoscopically for a minimally invasive approach and typically requires two to three days in the hospital for recovery. Patients often experience steady weight loss of three to four pounds per week as they adjust to their new, healthier lifestyle.
Unlike gastric bypass surgery, there is a reduced need for ongoing nutritional supplements. Patients can expect to lose about 60% of excess weight within the first year after surgery. Many patients experience remission of obesity related diseases such as type 2 diabetes. Patients are encouraged to eat healthy meals and continue exercising for optimal success.
Gastric banding
With this procedure, there is no cutting or stapling of the stomach. Instead, a small adjustable band is placed around the stomach to reduce its size and create a small pouch. A small tube connects the band to a port under the skin that allows the band to be adjusted over time. Like the gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy, the smaller stomach pouch reduces food intake, and hunger.
Some patients prefer gastric banding because it carries less risk of surgical complications, allows for faster recovery, and is reversible. However, patients should be aware that gastric banding may require ongoing adjustments, and the success rate may not be as high as our other procedures.
Bariatric revision surgery
Bariatric surgery is a powerful tool for long-term weight loss, but sometimes, additional support is needed. If your initial procedure hasn’t provided the results you expected, or if you’re experiencing issues with a past surgery, bariatric revision surgery might be the solution to help you achieve your goals.
Our experienced bariatric surgeons will carefully review your medical history, evaluate your prior procedure, and help determine the best approach for your needs. Revision surgery can be more complex than an initial procedure, making it essential to choose a team with clinical experts, and the latest technological tools and resources.