Bariatric and Weight Loss Care

The gastric bypass surgical technique is the ‘gold standard’ procedure for optimal weight loss and health. This technique involves creating a small pouch in your small intestine which allows food to bypass a portion of your stomach. This alters the way in which your body responds to food. It also changes the release of hormones, leading to decreased appetite and reduces overall absorption of calories and nutrients. For most patients, this procedure can be done with laparoscopic surgery.

The vertical sleeve gastrectomy is a procedure that limits the amount of food you can eat by reducing the size of your stomach, resulting in a feeling of fullness after eating a much smaller amount of food. Removal of this part of the stomach also decreases the level of a powerful hunger hormone. In some cases, vertical sleeve gastrectomy is used as the first step before gastric bypass. For most patients, this procedure can be done with laparoscopic surgery.

Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive technique used in a wide variety of general surgeries, including bariatric surgery. Basically, the surgeon creates small incisions in the abdomen and inserts thin tubes and instruments to perform the surgery. The surgeon also inserts a tube that has a camera on the end, allowing the surgeon to observe on a monitor what he is doing with great visualization and detail.

Laparoscopic surgery has been used effectively and frequently since the 1980s and is often preferred because it reduces healing time and post-surgical pain or discomfort. Our surgeons are highly trained and experienced in using this technique for bariatric surgery. However, it may not be appropriate for some patients. Your surgeon can assess and discuss if it is right for you.

Learn more and see illustrations in our blog on bariatric surgery procedures.

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While bariatric surgery is inspiring in how it can improve your health and overall life, we understand that surgery can be intimidating. That’s why we offer educational resources, webinars, and a support group to help you learn more and become more comfortable moving forward. Of course, you will also have a consultation with a member of our bariatric surgical team, who will walk you through our process and your options.

Bariatric surgery is most successful when accompanied by changes in eating habits and physical activity. So, before and after your surgery, we will put you in touch with providers who can help you on your journey, and schedule you for classes on nutrition and weight loss practices.

We’ll do everything possible to set you up for success and to put you at ease — physically, emotionally, and spiritually — so you can remain focused on all the great results!