Weight Loss Surgery Options

In the journey toward a healthier lifestyle, sometimes we need a little extra help. That's where weight loss surgery may come into play. At CHI Saint Joseph Health, we understand that making the decision to undergo weight loss surgery is a significant step toward improving your overall well-being.

Beyond just shedding pounds, these surgeries can lead to a myriad of health improvements. From reducing the risk of chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease to enhancing mobility and overall quality of life, the positive outcomes are truly transformative. Weight loss surgery isn't just about numbers on a scale—it's about reclaiming your health and vitality.

In this article, we'll explore two popular weight loss surgery options: gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy. Let's dive in and discover how these procedures can positively impact your life.

Do you Qualify for Weight Loss Surgery?

At CHI Saint Joseph Health, candidates for weight loss surgery undergo a thorough evaluation to ensure that they meet specific qualifications. These criteria typically include:

• Having a body mass index (BMI) above a certain threshold
• Demonstrating a history of unsuccessful attempts at sustained weight loss through other methods
• Exhibiting obesity-related health issues

Our dedicated team of health care professionals works closely with patients, guiding them through the preoperative assessment to determine their eligibility for bariatric surgery. This careful screening process is designed to maximize the safety and effectiveness of the procedure, ensuring that those who undergo surgery are well-prepared for the journey toward achieving their weight loss and overall health goals.

See if You Qualify for Surgery 

Types of Weight Loss Surgery

Choosing the right procedure for you involves a discussion with an experienced bariatric surgeon. Our board-certified physicians are here to listen, to understand your unique needs and goals and to help you find the best fit for your life.

Gastric Bypass

Gastric bypass surgery, often referred to as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, is a procedure that has helped countless individuals achieve significant weight loss and improve their health. One of the key benefits of gastric bypass is its ability to not only restrict the amount of food you can eat but also alter the way your body absorbs nutrients. By creating a smaller stomach pouch and rerouting a portion of the digestive tract, gastric bypass promotes feelings of fullness while also reducing calorie absorption.

This dual mechanism makes gastric bypass an incredibly effective tool for weight loss. Patients often experience rapid and sustained weight loss, leading to improvements in conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and acid reflux disease. Additionally, many patients report increased energy levels and a renewed sense of confidence in their ability to lead an active lifestyle.

At CHI Saint Joseph Health, we utilize state-of-the-art robotic technology to perform gastric bypass surgeries with precision and accuracy. Our skilled surgeons are trained in the latest robotic-assisted techniques, allowing for smaller incisions, less pain and potentially faster recovery times for our patients. Throughout the entire process, from pre-operative preparation to post-operative care, our providers are with you every step of the way, ensuring a seamless and supportive experience.

Sleeve Gastrectomy

Another popular option for weight loss surgery is a sleeve gastrectomy, also known as gastric sleeve surgery. This procedure involves removing a large portion of the stomach, leaving behind a smaller, banana-shaped "sleeve." Like gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy works by limiting the amount of food you can comfortably consume, leading to reduced calorie intake and subsequent weight loss.

One of the benefits of sleeve gastrectomy is its simplicity. Unlike gastric bypass, which involves rerouting the digestive tract, sleeve gastrectomy is a relatively straightforward procedure that preserves the natural flow of digestion. This can result in fewer complications and a quicker recovery time for many patients.

In addition to promoting weight loss, sleeve gastrectomy has been shown to improve or resolve many obesity-related health issues, including type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea and high blood pressure. 

Throughout the entire process of sleeve gastrectomy, our providers at CHI Saint Joseph Health are dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. From initial consultation to post-operative care, our experienced team is here to answer your questions, address your concerns and provide personalized guidance to ensure a smooth and successful journey toward a healthier you.

What Option Should You Choose?

At CHI Saint Joseph Health, we recognize that the decision to undergo weight loss surgery is deeply personal and requires careful consideration. That's why our approach at the Center for Weight Loss Surgery at Saint Joseph East is centered around collaboration between patients and our expert medical team. When it comes to selecting the right weight loss surgery option for you, several factors come into play, including your lifestyle, medical history, individual needs and preferences.

Every patient is unique, and what works best for one person may not be the ideal choice for another. That's why we emphasize the importance of open communication and shared decision-making between patients and their health care providers. Your provider will take into account various factors, such as your BMI, comorbidities and surgical history, to help determine which weight loss surgery option aligns best with your goals and overall health.

Before moving forward with any weight loss surgery, patients are required to attend our comprehensive weight loss seminar. During this seminar, our experienced providers delve into the potential risks and benefits of each procedure, ensuring that you are fully informed and equipped to make an educated decision about your health. Additionally, our team offers personalized one-on-one consultations to address any specific questions or concerns you may have, fostering a supportive environment where you can feel confident and empowered throughout your weight loss journey.

Ultimately, the decision of which weight loss surgery option to pursue is a collaborative effort between you and your health care team. By working together, we can tailor a treatment plan that not only addresses your weight loss goals but also prioritizes your overall health and well-being. At CHI Saint Joseph Health, we're dedicated to providing compassionate care and personalized support to help you achieve long-lasting success on your path to a healthier, happier life.

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Bariatric Surgery at CHI Saint Joseph Health

We offer a full range of options to put you on the path to success. Our board-certified weight loss surgeons specialize in the latest laparoscopic techniques, requiring just a few small incisions. This may offer you a variety of benefits, including less pain and faster recovery, so you can get started right away on your weight loss goals.

Throughout your journey, you’ll also have the support of your own dedicated weight loss team—including a program coordinator, registered dietitian, exercise physiologist, health psychologist and more. Together, they help you promote positive change, inside and out.

Call 859.967.5520 or fill out our quick form to save your spot at a free weight loss seminar, hosted close to home in Lexington. We’ll provide in-depth information on each procedure, answer any questions and see if you may be a candidate.

Exceptional Surgical Outcomes

CHI Saint Joseph Health delivers outstanding results in bariatric surgery. Patients benefit from remarkably low complication rates and swift recovery times, enabling many to return to work within just a week. The surgeries also yield substantial health improvements, with over 85% of patients experiencing the resolution of conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. 

On average, patients undergoing weight loss surgery can anticipate adding 9 to 12 years to their life expectancy, thanks to a diminished risk of cardiovascular disease and other health advantages. The surgery also enhances joint health, thereby improving mobility and overall quality of life.

We’re here to help you find success and live the life you’ve always wanted. You can count on sensitive, hands-on support through all phases of treatment, from your first visit through ongoing follow-up care. Don’t wait – reclaim your life today.