Weight loss through gastric bypass is major surgery with significant risks. Its growing use to treat morbid obesity is the result of three factors:

The current knowledge of the significant health risks of morbid obesity;

The evolving safety of weight loss surgery in dedicated specialty      centers such as ours;

The documented ineffectiveness of current non-surgical approaches to      produce sustained weight loss.

Individuals who have had to deal with the realities of the chronic disease of Morbid Obesity know all too well the many challenges of day to day life. While these challenges, such as simply walking, buying clothes, looking for a place to sit, are important, our focus is on helping to save you from this truly life threatening illness. With significant weight loss we can positively impact all aspects of obesity. The goal is to live better, healthier, and longer. You will be told by some that you are looking at taking the easy way out. Don't be fooled for a second, for you are beginning a difficult, lifelong journey that is not for everyone!

At HUH Bariatric Surgery Program, we are committed to providing our patients with the most current and accurate information possible to ensure that their decision to undergo a weight loss procedure is an informed one. That is why we believe our patients should make the decision to have weight loss surgery only after careful consideration, extensive research and consultation with an experienced bariatric surgeon and multi-disciplinary support team, who will be involved in their care both before surgery and in the years afterwards.

The HUH Bariatric Surgery Program will answer your questions clearly and explain the exact details of the procedures (laparoscopic gastric bypass and gastric banding), the extent of the recovery period, and the reality of the follow-up care that will be required. There should be no question in your mind about our team's commitment to the care of the morbidly obese patient. This is a lifelong relationship.

It is important to remember that there are no ironclad guarantees in any kind of medicine or surgery. There can be unexpected outcomes in even the simplest procedures. What can be said, however, is that weight loss surgery will only succeed with lifelong commitment from the patient. With bariatric surgery, risks are taken upfront in hopes of long term benefit, and improved quality of life. Also remember that non-surgical treatment is not without risk, as it is associated with an increasing number of medical disabilities and a shortened lifespan.

Some of the challenges facing a person after weight loss surgery can be unexpected. To help patients achieve their goals and deal with the changes surgery and weight loss can bring, our program offers follow-up care that includes a Bariatrician, a program coordinator, patient support groups, and other forms of continuing education.

Ultimately, the decision to have the procedure is entirely up to you. After having heard all the information, you must decide if the benefits outweigh the risks and potential complications. This surgery is only a tool. Your success depends on your commitment and use of the tool when making lifestyle changes related to diet, exercise and long-term follow-up.

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