Bariatric Surgery

Obesity & Weight Loss Options

Obesity is a complex, multifactorial metabolic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. When traditional efforts at weight loss are unsuccessful, bariatric surgery should be considered. Lasting control of weight not only improves your current health, but decreases your risk of cancer, heart disease, and stroke.

Bariatric surgery is performed laparoscopically through small incisions which allows a quicker recovery. The options for surgery include gastric bypass, vertical sleeve gastrectomy, and adjustable gastric banding. All procedures can work and provide different options for consideration. Consultation with your surgeon will determine which procedure is right for you. The bariatric team at West Coast Joint and Spine Surgery Center can help.

Options for Weight Loss Surgery

The bariatric team at West Coast Joint and Spine Surgery Center will guide you through the surgical process and recovery. Surgery is performed as an outpatient or in some cases a 23-hour stay.

Bariatric Surgery Options:

  • The Gastric Bypass: Involves changes to the stomach and small intestine which can improve metabolism, reduce hunger, and restrict meal size.
  • The Gastric Sleeve: Removes much of the stomach which can decrease hunger and restrict meal size.
  • The Gastric Band: An adjustable band is placed around the stomach which can control hunger and reduce meal size.

Qualifications for Bariatric Surgery in Most Areas Include:

  1. Recommended for individuals with BMI ≥35 kg/m2, regardless of presence, absence, or severity of co-morbidities.
  2. Recommended in patients with Tyle 2 Diabetes and BMI ≥30 kg/m2.
  3. Should be considered in individuals with BMI of 30–34.9 kg/m2 who do not achieve substantial or durable weight loss or co-morbidity improvement using nonsurgical methods.

Calculate Your BMI

Learn more about Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery

Deciding to undergo metabolic and bariatric surgery is a significant step, and we understand that you likely have numerous questions and concerns. Our goal is to empower you with knowledge, support, and resources to help you make an informed decision that’s right for you.

The decision to pursue bariatric surgery is often one that is considered over months to years. Bariatric surgery provides a tool for lasting weight loss. Pairing with an experienced surgeon and team are the keys to successful long-term results.

The American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery has detailed patient resources available at: https://asmbs.org/for-patients/

Find a Participating Surgeon

Laura Machado

Laura Machado, MD

General Surgery

Bariatric Surgery FAQ