Weight Loss and Bariatrics
We’re dedicated to helping patients achieve their weight loss goals. We understand that a personalized approach to weight loss can help create lasting results. At Providence, we walk with you on your weight loss journey so you can achieve your goals safely and effectively.
Nearly 40% of Americans are living with obesity. Obesity is a complex disease in which excessive body fat increases the risk of serious health problems. Obesity can be caused by many things, including genetics, diet, lifestyle and behavior, and our environment. Often, more than one cause can lead to obesity. The more we understand the causes, the better we can treat obesity.
Losing weight and keeping it off is hard. If you struggle with weight loss, you’re not alone.
At Providence, we treat weight loss management holistically, taking into account the whole person. We offer programs that fit your weight loss and health goals, and we give you the support you need to lose weight safely and effectively.
Weight loss takes time — and commitment. Our care team is here to help you achieve long-lasting results.
If you’re interested in a weight loss program, please talk with your primary care provider about your weight loss goals.
When deciding if you’re a good candidate for bariatric surgery, you need to carefully weigh the benefits and risks. Bariatric surgery will impact many aspects of your life and require you to make significant behavior changes.
You may be a candidate if:
- You have a body mass index (BMI) of more than 40. OR
- Your BMI is between 35 and 39 and you have other health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.
Bariatric surgery is designed to restrict the size of the stomach and limit the number of calories you absorb. Our care team of bariatric surgeons, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, psychologists and other coordinators and navigators are here to help you decide which type of surgery is right for you.
Surgical treatments we may offer, using a minimally-invasive (laparoscopic) approach, include:
- Roux-en-Y gastric bypass closes part of the stomach, creating a smaller upper stomach pouch that bypasses the lower stomach to limit the amount of fat and calories you absorb from food. This type of surgery can be reversed.
- Vertical sleeve gastrectomy removes about 75% of the stomach pouch, creating a gastric sleeve that helps limit food intake. This type of surgery cannot be reversed.
- Gastric banding, or lap band surgery, forms a smaller stomach pouch to limit food intake.
After weight loss surgery, some people struggle with sagging or loose skin. We can also help with body contouring.
If you and your doctor decide that surgery is right for you, it’s important to talk with your insurance provider to make sure your plan includes Providence hospitals. If you do not have weight loss surgery insurance benefits, you may be able to pay for treatment using self-pay options.
If you are overweight or living with obesity, losing weight can have many health benefits. These may include a reduced risk of chronic conditions like heart disease, stroke, cancer and diabetes — not to mention other issues like sleep apnea and high blood pressure. Plus, weight loss can improve your overall health and quality of life.
Our registered dietitians can help you with:
- Overall nutrition
- Healthy, mindful eating
- Adopting new behaviors in your relationship with food
We also have physical therapists available to help you develop an activity schedule that works for you. They can help you create a plan to gradually add physical activity into your daily routine.
Along with healthy eating habits and physical activity, your doctor may recommend certain medications, such as GLP-1s, to help with weight loss. These medications are approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat obesity and can help you lose more weight than you would with diet and exercise alone. Your doctor can help you decide if a weight loss medication is right for you.
Also, some medications you take may cause you to gain weight or make it harder for you to lose it. But you should not stop taking any medication before talking to your doctor.
If you’re interested in a weight loss program, please talk with your primary care provider about your weight loss goals.
Doctors Specializing in Weight Loss and Bariatrics
At Providence, you'll have access to a vast network of dedicated and compassionate providers who offer personalized care by focusing on treatment, prevention and health education.
