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Weight loss surgery

Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, is performed on patients with obesity. There are several types of bariatric procedures, but all focus on making modifications to the digestive system with the goal of significant weight loss.

Weight loss center in Port Charlotte, Florida

For many people, making changes in diet and exercise routines simply doesn't produce significant weight loss, especially if you are struggling with obesity.

The Fawcett Weight Loss Surgery Center at HCA Florida Fawcett Hospital can help, offering bariatric (weight loss) surgery options to meet your unique needs and guide you on a journey of sustained — and sustainable — weight loss. We offer advanced surgical options, so you and your doctor can decide which one is right for you.

Click the Get Started button and complete the form, or call the number listed so our program coordinator can connect with you to review next steps and answer your questions.

HCA Florida Healthcare weight loss surgery

Watch this informational video to learn more about what weight loss surgery is and how it can improve your overall health. You will learn about the causes and effects of obesity, types of surgeries and their benefits, as well as what you can expect before, during and after a procedure.

If you would like to speak with an experienced nurse to answer any questions you may have, you can call (844) 482-4823.

Get started with your weight loss journey

Make an appointment or learn more about our weight loss surgeons.

Make an appointment or learn more about our weight loss surgeons.

Weight loss treatments and services

We offer a range of procedures and supplemental services designed to help you lose, and keep off, weight, including the following:

Gastric bypass (Roux-en-Y)

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery takes a portion of the stomach and creates a smaller stomach pouch, attaching it to the small intestine. This action enables you to feel full after eating smaller amounts of food.

Considered the gold standard of surgical weight loss procedures, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass can eliminate 60 to 80 percent of excess weight and offer improvement or reversal of obesity-related conditions such as diabetes, all through the use of smaller incisions than traditional surgery.

Sleeve gastrectomy

Sleeve gastrectomy involves the removal of 75 to 80 percent of the stomach, leaving a sleeve-shaped stomach about the size of a banana. The functional volume of the stomach is significantly reduced, but the passage of food is not altered.

This procedure restricts the amount of food you can eat and also changes the production of certain gastrointestinal hormones, reducing your hunger and appetite.

Gastric sleeve is similarly effective to gastric bypass in terms of weight loss, diabetes improvement and remission in the short term.

Weight loss support

Success after bariatric surgery requires your dedication and commitment to better health practices for the rest of your life. Our team provides this encouragement and support, giving you the tools you need to succeed.

Our experienced staff of patient-centered care professionals take time to answer your questions and listen to your concerns, all while explaining the various aspects of bariatric surgery, including follow-up care, monthly support group, psychological preparation and nutrition and diet changes.

Qualifications for weight loss surgery

Bariatric surgery isn't the right approach to weight loss for everyone, but you may qualify if:

BMI Calculator

  • You are 100 pounds or more over the healthy body weight for your height 
  • You have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or greater
  • You have a BMI of 35 or greater and obesity-related health conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes
  • You are otherwise unable to sustain a healthy body weight, even through medically supervised dieting

Bariatric surgery requirements

The exact tests, forms and steps required before weight loss surgery can vary from person to person. However, we are here to help you navigate the process and have outlined the typical steps here:

Patient Guide and Checklist


Verify insurance coverage

Unless you plan to self-pay for bariatric surgery, contact your insurance provider to see if they will cover your procedure and, if so, what requirements they have.


Document medically monitored weight loss attempts

Most insurance companies require several months of medically documented and supervised weight loss attempts. Your primary care provider can help you with this process and documentation.


Schedule a bariatric surgery consultation with us

After you have gathered required documentation, please make an appointment with our weight loss team, and we'll talk about the next steps together.

Complete a psychological evaluation

A psychological evaluation is required before weight loss surgery. It includes a detailed clinical interview and psychological tests that help us understand your mental health.


Complete a nutritional assessment

A nutritional assessment is also part of the preoperative plan of care. It will cover your postsurgical diet, emotional eating, food intake and identifying your triggers.

Are you a candidate for weight loss surgery?

Start your journey today by taking a free assessment.

Start your journey today by taking a free assessment.

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Our Weight loss surgery Locations

Currently Viewing:

Fawcett Hospital
21298 Olean Blvd
Port Charlotte, FL 33952
 (941) 629-1181

Currently Viewing:

Fawcett Hospital
21298 Olean Blvd
Port Charlotte, FL 33952
 (941) 629-1181
Brandon Hospital
119 Oakfield Dr
Brandon, FL 33511
 (813) 681 - 5551

66.3 miles

South Tampa Hospital
2901 W Swann Ave
Tampa, FL 33609
 (813) 873 - 6400

69.9 miles