Bariatrics & Weight Loss Surgery

If you’re struggling with your weight and related conditions, chances are you’ve tried just about everything. And, if you’re like millions of other Americans, you’re still not getting the results you need to transform your health and life.

Reclaim a Life Without Limits

At CHI Saint Joseph Health, we’re here to help you find success. Our personalized bariatric surgery programs are designed for significant and lasting weight loss. But there’s also so much to gain. Relief from diabetes, hypertension and joint pain. Better sleep and more energy. Renewed confidence. And the freedom to do what you love—whether that’s chasing the kids or running a marathon.

Types of Weight Loss Programs

Weight Loss Surgery

Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, can be a solution to address obesity and its associated health concerns. These surgeries involve various procedures that modify the digestive system to promote weight loss, and the choice of procedure depends on your circumstances and goals. Let’s explore some common types of bariatric procedures:

1. Gastric Bypass: 

This surgery involves creating a small stomach pouch rerouting the digestive system, limiting the amount of food you can eat and the calories your body absorbs.

Gastric bypass is often recommended for individuals with a significant amount of weight to lose or those with obesity-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes, as it can lead to rapid weight loss and improvements in metabolic health.

2. Sleeve Gastrectomy:

In this procedure, a large portion of the stomach is removed, leaving a smaller, banana-shaped stomach. This reduces the amount of food the stomach can hold.

Sleeve gastrectomy is ideal for those seeking a balance between effective weight loss and a less complex surgery. Sleeve gastrectomy may be recommended for patients with a BMI on the lower side or those concerned about long-term nutritional implications.

Who Qualifies for Bariatric Surgery?

Non-Surgical Weight Loss Program

For individuals who may not be suitable candidates for surgery or prefer a non-invasive approach, non-surgical weight loss programs provide an alternative path. These programs typically encompass a combination of dietary modifications, exercise regimens, behavioral therapy, and sometimes medication to facilitate weight loss. The emphasis is on creating sustainable lifestyle changes.

What is Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric surgery is a medical intervention designed to help individuals achieve significant weight loss by altering the digestive process. The primary goal is to restrict food intake, reduce nutrient absorption, or a combination of both. This not only results in weight loss, but often leads to improvements in obesity-related health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea.

How to Get Started with Weight Loss Surgery

There are a few short steps you need to do before making an appointment with our bariatric team. If you have any questions, call 859.967.5520.

1. First, check with your insurance provider to make sure you have bariatric benefits.
2. Watch our free online seminar or reserve a spot at our in person seminar.
3. Fill out our online form.
4. Email a copy of your insurance card (front and back) to [email protected] or fax a copy to 859.967.5444.

Once we have received your registration (either electronically or by paper), we will verify that you have benefits for weight loss surgery. We will then call to schedule your first appointment with the physician assistant or to discuss your insurance options.