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.
Bariatric (weight loss) surgery center in Margate, Florida
Bariatric surgery isn't just intended to help you lose weight, it's also meant to transform your health and give you a better quality of life.
For our dedication to your care, HCA Florida Northwest Hospital is recognized as a Comprehensive Center for Bariatric Surgery by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) and was also named a Bariatric Center of Excellence by Optum. Together, our highly skilled weight loss specialists and bariatric surgeons work with you to help you permanently overcome obesity.
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 bariatric nurse directly to answer questions, 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.
Our weight loss services and procedures
Bariatric surgery is a major life change that should be taken seriously.
Bariatric services we offer
At HCA Florida Northwest Hospital, our goal is to ensure that you feel informed and comfortable throughout the process, which is why we offer:
- 24-hour access to bariatric specialists and surgeons
- Customized inpatient rooms and equipment designed specifically for bariatric patients
- Extensive patient education, including information on support groups
- Specialized nurses and other clinical personnel trained to provide preoperative and postoperative bariatric care
Bariatric surgeries we offer
Our first-class, patient-centered care is anchored by the use of advanced surgical technology and equipment. This equipment is employed during all of our available surgical procedures, which include the following:
Gastric bypass (Roux-en-Y)
This minimally invasive procedure is the most effective available treatment for morbid obesity. Weight loss occurs as a result of reducing the size of the stomach and bypassing a portion of the small intestine. In most cases, patients report a quicker sense of fullness and satisfaction that decreases the desire to eat.
Our laparoscopic approach to this surgery results in a shortened hospital stay (typically two to three days) as well as limited pain and discomfort.
Gastric sleeve (sleeve gastrectomy)
This procedure reduces a patient's stomach size to about one-quarter of its original size. With a smaller stomach, patients report feeling full from less food.
We are one of the only facilities in the region performing gastric sleeve using advanced robotic technology. This allows our surgeons to have increased precision and use smaller incisions, ensuring a faster recovery time.
Gastric lap band
During this procedure, a band is placed at the top of the stomach, creating a small pouch. The opening to the rest of the digestive tract is adjustable through a small port. Most patients who choose a gastric lap band procedure experience the same amount of weight loss as other weight loss surgeries, but at a slower rate.
Unlike other procedures listed above, the gastric lap band is reversible and does not alter your anatomy.
Bariatric surgery support group
Bariatric support groups are offered for those considering bariatric surgery, as well as postoperative patients in various stages of their weight loss journey.
If you are interested in joining a bariatric support group offered at HCA Florida Northwest Hospital every fourth Wednesday of the month from noon to 1:00pm, Please contact our bariatric coordinator at (954) 984-3713 for more information.
Candidates for weight loss surgery
Bariatric surgery isn't the right approach to weight loss for everyone, but you may qualify if:
- 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 with medically supervised dieting
Bariatric surgery revisions
A small number of patients who have had weight loss surgery relapse years after their procedure. On a case-by-case basis, some of these individuals may benefit from an additional procedure called revision surgery to help them lose weight again and treat specific symptoms.
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:
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 may be required before weight loss surgery. It could include 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.
Understanding weight loss surgery
Similar to dieting or exercising, weight loss surgery is another tool to fight obesity, the common form of which being bariatric surgery. Bariatric surgery reduces the size of the stomach, limiting the amount of food you can consume — usually from about two to three ounces.
If paired with healthy eating habits and exercise, bariatric surgery can lead to significant weight loss. However, it is important for you to meet with a weight loss specialist and evaluate the benefits and risks, as well as nonsurgical alternatives. During this consultation, a weight loss specialist will explain the following about the procedure:
- Bariatric surgery does not involve liposuction
- Bariatric surgery is not a cosmetic procedure
- Bariatric surgeries, other than gastric banding, are irreversible
- The success of bariatric surgery depends on your commitment to long-term lifestyle changes
Clearance from your medical doctor
Prior to scheduling bariatric surgery, you may be required to confirm medical clearance from your primary care physician.
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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