Obesity is one of America's most serious epidemics. Over two-thirds of U.S. citizens are overweight, an alarming statistic that continues to grow. Addressing this need, the Center for Bariatric Surgery at Meritus Medical Center offers long-term weight control options to patients throughout the region.

Those who seek bariatric treatment are at least 100 pounds overweight and have been unsuccessful with conventional weight loss attempts such as dieting and exercise. Health, not vanity, brings people to the Center for Bariatric Surgery. Bariatric surgery is often the final attempt to end obesity.

Those afflicted by obesity often have life-threatening conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea.

The Center for Bariatric Surgery offers minimally invasive gastric bypass and adjustable gastric banding procedures, and the most advanced laparoscopic surgical technique available—single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS). Our comprehensive, patient-centered program provides

• a private information session to discuss surgery alternatives and insurance eligibility;
• medical consultation and a pre-surgery diet program;
• nutritional counseling and education to support new eating habits;
• continuous medical check-ups to monitor health and weight loss success;
• support group meetings to share accomplishments and questions with peers.

Our multidisciplinary care team includes six bariatric surgeons, a registered dietitian, and a program coordinator, as well as lifestyle counseling provided by Behavior Health Services and access to physical therapists through Total Rehab Care’s Wellness Center. Let us help you reclaim your health, mobility, stamina, and social life. Find out more about our program by calling 301-714-4044. Or, attend one of our monthly support groups and listen to prospective and former bariatric patients share their weight loss stories.

Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence® is a registered trademark of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS). Used by permission of ASMBS. All rights reserved.