Bariatric Surgery

Metabolic and bariatric surgery offers a proven path to long-term weight loss and improved health for individuals with obesity. These procedures can help manage obesity-related conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea, while enhancing quality of life and mobility.

Metabolic and bariatric surgery is a transformative option for individuals with obesity, offering a proven pathway to long-term weight loss and improved health. Beyond weight loss, these procedures help manage obesity-related conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea, while enhancing your quality of life and mobility.

What is Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric surgery, also known as metabolic or weight loss surgery, is a medical treatment for obesity that is linked to improved health, reduced mortality, and better quality of life.

Who is a Good Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?

You may qualify for bariatric surgery if you meet the following criteria:

• Are 18 years of age or older
• Have a BMI of 35 or greater
• Have tried and been unable to lose weight through diet and exercise
• Are committed to long-term follow-up care and lifelong changes in eating, exercise, and lifestyle habits

Benefits of Bariatric Surgery

Studies have shown that bariatric surgery provides a range of health and quality-of-life benefits:

• Reduced Risk of Premature Death: May lower your risk by 30-50%.
• Management of Chronic Conditions: Helps prevent or manage conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, sleep apnea, and certain cancers.
• Hormonal Changes: Surgery alters hunger-related hormones, helping to increase feelings of fullness, reduce appetite, and support weight loss.

What Results Can You Expect?

• Most patients lose 50-70% of their excess weight within 12-18 months.
• While some weight regain may reoccur, most patients maintain significant, long-term weight loss along with comorbid disease control.
• Each patient’s journey is unique, and results vary depending on individual factors and the type of procedure performed.

Types of Bariatric Surgery

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

This procedure creates a small stomach pouch (about the size of an egg) that is connected directly to the small intestine, bypassing the remainder of the stomach and the upper intestine. Benefits include:

• Restricting food intake
• Decreasing calorie absorption through intestinal bypass
• Enhancing satiety by altering hunger hormones

Sleeve Gastrectomy

In this procedure, the stomach is reshaped into a thin, banana-like tube. The unused portion of the stomach is removed. Benefits include:

• Reducing stomach size and food capacity
• Increasing stomach emptying, which promotes feeling of fullness by altering hunger-related hormones

Preparing for Bariatric Surgery

Steps to Take Before Surgery

• Attend an initial consultation and evaluation
• Complete nutritional counseling
• Undergo any required medical tests
• Follow a pre-surgery diet to prepare your body for the procedure

Will Insurance Cover Bariatric Surgery?

Coverage varies by provider. We work with your insurance company to determine eligibility and help you understand your financial responsibility.

After Bariatric Surgery

Recovery Timeline

• Most patients stay in the hospital for 1-2 days.
• Return to normal activities within 2-4 weeks, depending on the procedure and individual healing.

Dietary Changes

Post-surgery, you’ll follow a gradual diet progression:

1. Start with liquids.
2. Transition to soft foods.
3. Reintroduce solid meals over time.
   Lifelong healthy eating habits are essential for long-term success.

Lifelong Vitamin and Mineral Supplementation

To prevent nutritional deficiencies, you’ll need to take vitamins and supplements long-term. Your care team will provide detailed guidance.

Weight Loss Results

Most patients lose 50-70% of excess weight within the first 12-18 months, though results vary by individual and procedure type.

Pregnancy After Bariatric Surgery

Yes, you can get pregnant after bariatric surgery. However, it’s recommended to wait at least 12-18 months before trying to conceive, as rapid weight loss can impact fertility and pregnancy health.

Excess Skin After Weight Loss

Loose skin is common after significant weight loss. Options such as exercise, compression garments, or body contouring surgery may help.

Getting Started

How to Schedule a Consultation

You can get started by:

• Calling us at 229-433-1814
• Submitting an inquiry through our Website Contact Form
• Asking your primary care provider for a referral

Do You Offer Non-Surgical Weight Loss Options?

Yes! We offer medical weight management services, including:

• Nutrition counseling
• Medications tailored to your needs
• Lifestyle coaching for sustainable change