Surgical Options

Laparoscopic Gastric Banding

Laparoscopic Gastric Banding is currently the safest FDA approved weight loss surgery option. The Laparoscopic Band decreases a person's ability to eat large meals, helping with portion control and allowing patients to diet more effectively. The Laparoscopic Band helps patients not to regain weight while having a very low risk of vitamin deficiency.

Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass

Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass is a very effective weight loss surgery although it is irreversible. Current techniques have improved its safety yet it still carries a rare risk of major complications or even death. The stomach is divided and the small bowel rerouted to decrease the gut's ability to absorb food. After surgery, hunger is markedly decreased in most patients. Life-long vitamin supplementation is necessary for continued health.

Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy

Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy, also known as Gastric Sleeve, is a restrictive surgical weight loss procedure that reduces the size of the stomach thereby reducing the amount of food you can eat and allowing you to feel full longer. During the procedure, more than 85% of the stomach is removed and a thin vertical sleeve of the stomach is created, about the size of a banana. This surgery is not reversible, but has a low risk of vitamin deficiency.

The Goals of Obesity Surgery are to:

1. Improve Health
2. Improve Quality of Life
3. Increase Lifespan
4. Not Cosmetic - this is only a side effect

Program components include:

• Patient and support person education
• Exercise training
• Nutritional counseling
• Psychological evaluation and support
• Medical clearance
• Support group meetings
• Life long follow up