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Weight Loss Surgery: Becoming a Healthier You
By Scott Shikora, M.D., FACS
Have you been contemplating bariatric surgery? For many obese patients, weight loss surgery may be the best long-term solution. Laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery and laparoscopic banding surgery are the primary surgical procedures used today with vertical sleeve gastrectomy gaining popularity. These can be performed laparoscopically, which means smaller scars, faster and safer recovery, and less chance of infection for patients.
Q: What is a Bariatric Center of Excellence?
A Center of Excellence is the highest designation bestowed upon a program by an independent organization. It’s based on many factors including number of surgeries performed, rate of complications, protocols and conduct. Tufts Medical Center was the first program in Massachusetts to receive this designation.
Q: How do I know if I qualify for surgery?
You would qualify if your BMI (body mass index) is between 35 and 40 and you have some of the following co-morbidities: hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, sleep apnea, high cholesterol, or if you are more than 100 lbs over "ideal" weight you will qualify.
Q: Which surgery is best for me?
The surgeon will review each of the surgical options with you and identify which is best for you based on your medical and surgical history.
Q: How does surgery help control diabetes?
Bariatric surgery is the most effective method to achieve major, long-term weight loss which improves/resolves co-morbidities including diabetes. In fact, amazingly, after gastric bypass surgery, many patients are off all of the diabetic medications by the time they leave the hospital,
Q: How do I prepare for surgery?
It’s important that you research weight loss surgery so that you have a clear understanding of what it entails. The following websites are recommended: tuftsmedicalcenter.org/WWC, tuftsmedicalcenter.tv and asmbs.org.
Next steps?
To apply to the program, call the Weight and Wellness Center at Tufts Medical Center at (508) 732-8003.
Scott Shikora, M.D., FACS
Dr. Shikora is the Chief and Director of General and Bariatric Surgery at Tufts Medical Center.
To apply for the program call (508) 732-8003.
Visit www.tuftsmedicalcenter.tv for more information
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