If non-surgical weight loss methods have not helped you to lose weight
and keep it off, weight loss surgery may be right for you. St. John's
Bariatric Surgery evaluates each patient according to his or her individual
needs and health goals. We offer a comprehensive program with specialists
including physicians, mental health professionals, registered nurses,
registered dietitians, certified personal trainers, insurance advocates, support groups, and more.
Who is Bariatric Surgery For?
Your first line of attack against shedding extra pounds is a healthy diet
and exercise. But what if it doesn’t work? Weight-loss surgery,
also called bariatric surgery, might be an option. However, bariatric
surgery is not easy, and it is not right for everyone. Qualifications
for bariatric surgery in most areas include:
A BMI 40 or more, or more than 100 pounds overweight
A BMI of 35 to 40 or more and at least one or more obesity-related co-morbidities
such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea and other respiratory
disorders, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, osteoarthritis, lipid abnormalities,
gastrointestinal disorders, or heart disease.
Inability to achieve a healthy weight loss sustained for a period of time
with prior weight loss efforts with nutrition, exercise, or medications.
As part of the approval process, you will need to undergo a number of physical
exams and testing. This is to make sure you are healthy enough for the
surgery and recovery. Before you have surgery, you may need to work with
your primary care doctor and a dietitian to lose some weight and stopsmoking
to reduce your risk for complications. You might need to work with extra
health care professionals if you have other medical or social problems.
Weight Management Support
The weight management and bariatric support group is designed for people
interested in managing their weight and those who have had or are considering
bariatric surgery. Led by Sarah Peterson, a registered dietitian at St.
John’s Health, and Amber Schalk, RN, BSN, a registered nurse at
St. John's General Surgery, members share experiences, gain knowledge,
develop friendships, and receive support from peers and professionals.
If you are considering bariatric surgery, we hope to be a resource and
a partner with you to improve your health. Call St. John's Bariatric Surgery at
307.739.7690 to schedule an appointment.
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