Should I consider weight-loss surgery?
People who decide to undergo weight-loss surgery can lose and keep off about 60 to 70% of excess body weight (on average). Weight-related chronic conditions, including type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, joint problems and high blood pressure, can also be decreased or even eliminated. Using bariatric surgery as a tool, along with hard work and dedication, can help patients experience added energy, enhanced self-image and confidence, improved physical conditioning and endurance, better control over health and health care spending, and increased longevity.
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Which type of surgery should I choose? Will it be laparoscopic?
Your doctor and bariatric surgeon will work with you to determine the surgical procedure that’s best for you. To learn more about available procedures at Holland Hospital, we encourage you to watch our free educational seminar.
Our bariatric surgeons perform bariatric surgery laparoscopically whenever possible. Benefits of laparoscopic surgery include less postoperative pain, fewer complications and a faster recovery.
Are there risks associated with bariatric surgery?
All surgical procedures have risks, including bariatric surgery. Each type of weight-loss surgery has its own specific risks that your surgeon will discuss with you. Every year, the safety of bariatric surgery improves. Our surgeons, who are part of Grand Health Partners, are among the most experienced in Michigan. Together, they have performed more than 13,000 surgeries, 99.5% laparoscopically.
How much weight can I expect to lose?
For the typical patient, bariatric surgery can lead to a 60-70% weight reduction over approximately three years. You should expect to remain committed to making and maintaining key lifestyle changes, including eating healthy and exercising regularly.
Who is eligible for bariatric surgery?
Individuals who are approximately 100 pounds or more overweight and haven’t had lasting weight-loss success through diet, exercise and behavior modification may be eligible for bariatric surgery. Bariatric surgery candidates typically also have a body mass index (BMI)* of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 coupled with other health problems like diabetes, high blood pressure and sleep apnea.
*Your BMI is an estimate of your body fat based on your height and weight. Doctors use this measurement and other indicators to evaluate an adult’s current health status and potential health risks.
Why should I choose Holland Hospital for bariatric surgery?
At Holland Hospital, exceptional quality care is our top priority. Our quality commitment has earned Holland Hospital national recognition for excellent clinical outcomes when compared to other hospitals across the country. We’re among the few Michigan hospital’s to consistently receive the top 5-Star quality rating from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services. What’s more, we are among the nation’s top hospitals for health care value.
Our surgical teams and hospital care professionals work together to ensure that patients receive the highest-quality care in a safe and comfortable environment. Attention to safe practices and clean facilities help promote rapid recovery. We closely monitor the hospital environment, equipment and procedures to maintain the highest levels of patient safety and optimize healing during your hospital stay.
What are the next steps?
- Register for our free weight-loss seminar to learn more about bariatric surgery at Holland Hospital.
- Talk to your primary care provider about your weight. Compile a list of all the diets you’ve tried and bring it with you to your appointment. Share a list of the medications you’re also taking (with dosages and schedule), including herbals and supplements. Make sure you’re also staying on top of your overall health, including scheduling important tests and screenings.