Making the decision to get bariatric surgery is life changing and there is a lot to consider. The goal of bariatric surgery is to help those with severe obesity lose weight, reduce or eliminate serious health issues and significantly improve their quality of life.
Watch bariatric surgery patient Steve Bulloch talk about his decision to undergo surgery at the Metabolic and Bariatric Institute:
It is recommended that patients are referred by their primary care provider. They may be referred by a specialist if they have an established primary care provider willing to support their weight loss journey.
You may qualify for weight loss surgery if you:
- Weigh 100 pounds more than the ideal body weight (ask your provider what that means
for you)
- Have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more
- Have a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or more and have been diagnosed with obesity-related medical problems
- Have type 2 diabetes
- Are 18-65 years old (older patients may qualify depending on health)
- Are not addicted to drugs or alcohol
- Are deemed mentally healthy enough to follow the after-care program
If you use any tobacco products, you will need to quit at least two months before your surgery. You must also commit to not smoking after surgery.
Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery
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Patients will work with our surgeon to determine the best option for them. The most common bariatric procedure we perform is the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy. This surgery permanently removes a large part of the stomach, making the portion of your stomach that’s left a long tube that is less stretchy. Many of the hormones that cause us to become hungry are housed in the portion of the stomach that is removed, significantly reducing hunger. Two years after surgery, patients usually lose about 65% - 68% of extra body weight.
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Medical Management of Weight Loss
Patients who do not move forward with surgery have the option of medical management for weight loss. This program includes regular appointments with our specialists to manage medications, work on lifestyle and behavior changes, and come up with a diet and exercise plan for optimal weight loss.
