Have you heard the news? St. Luke’s Health–Patients Medical Center has joined St. Luke’s Health–The Woodlands Hospital and Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center as home to an MBSAQIP-accredited bariatric program! This accreditation means we provide the top-notch care you deserve when it comes to your weight loss needs.
We’ve also recently opened up the Center for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery in Sugar Land to serve the South Houston community. We know bariatric surgery is a life-changing decision; we’re here to help you in the decision-making process.
What is bariatric surgery?
Bariatric surgery, or weight loss surgery, includes various procedures to assist patients who haven't found success with other weight loss methods in their journey to a healthier life. The different types of bariatric procedures include gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, gastric band, gastric balloons, endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty, and bariatric revision surgery. These procedures can address hormone imbalances in a person’s gut, reduce the volume of the stomach, and lead to a better long-term quality of life. To learn more about your options for weight loss surgery, watch our free online weight loss seminar to hear from our experts and get your questions answered.
Who is eligible for weight loss surgery?
Fifteen million Americans have been diagnosed with morbid obesity, many of whom are candidates for bariatric surgery. Morbid obesity is defined as being 100 pounds over the ideal body weight or having a body mass index (BMI) over 40. Dr. Brandon Fadner, bariatric surgeon at St. Luke’s Health–Sugar Land Hospital, explains the eligibility guidelines for weight loss surgery.
⦁ Previous attempts at weight loss have not been successful long-term.
⦁ No medical or psychological conditions are present that would make surgery too risky.
⦁ The patient is motivated and willing to undergo surgery and a complete change in lifestyle.
⦁ BMI is 40 or above, or BMI is 35 or above with the presence of a serious complication for obesity, like diabetes, sleep apnea, or hypertension.
What should I look for in a bariatric surgeon?
When choosing a bariatric surgeon, there are a few things to keep in mind to discover the best fit for you. First, find out what their training and experiences are. Dr. Fadner and our other bariatric surgeons have received specialized training in specific areas around weight loss needs, like minimally invasive techniques, acid reflux, and revisional bariatric surgery.
Use these questions to find the information needed in your search:
⦁ Does the physician specialize in bariatric surgery?
⦁ Are they a fellow of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (FASMBS)?
⦁ Do they have a team of specialists supporting them?
⦁ Does the physician accept your health insurance?
⦁ Are they affiliated with a hospital with access to state-of-the-art technology?
Lastly, it is important to have face-to-face meetings with any bariatric surgeons you’re considering. Bariatric surgery is a life-changing procedure, so you should find a physician you are comfortable with and trust.
When searching for a weight loss center, what should I keep in mind?
When looking for a bariatric hospital, one should consider the center’s experience, patient education, and ongoing care and support. Ask these questions while searching:
⦁ How long have the physicians at the center been providing weight loss services?
⦁ Does the center have resources to encourage the patient after the surgery?
⦁ Do they provide pre- and post-surgery support services?
Another important thing to keep in mind is the credentials of the weight loss center. The Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) awards certifications to prominent bariatric programs across the country. St. Luke’s Health has three hospitals with this accreditation: Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center, St. Luke’s Health–The Woodlands Hospital, and St. Luke’s Health–Patients Medical Center.
Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program badge for top-notch bariatric programs.
Are you looking for a bariatric surgeon or an accredited weight loss center? Schedule a one-on-one consultation with a St. Luke’s Health bariatric surgeon, check out our weight loss centers below to find one near you, or attend our free weight loss seminar to hear from our experts and have your questions answered.
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