Considering Weight Loss Surgery? 3 Things You Need to Know  

January marks the beginning – and sometimes the end – of weight loss resolutions for many. But if you’re dealing with obesity and related health issues and want to commit to a lifelong change, weight loss surgery might be right for you.  

“Bariatric surgery can be an extremely effective tool for weight loss, but it is just part of a larger commitment,” Dr. Elizabeth Zubowicz, WVU Medicine Bariatric Surgeon, said. “You have to be ready to make the lifestyle changes that come with surgery.” 

WVU Medicine Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery offers comprehensive weight-loss options and programs designed to help you lose weight and improve quality of life. 

If you’re considering surgery, here are some tips and things to remember as you begin your journey to healthier living.

Not Everyone is a Candidate for Surgery 

In addition to being ready for a major lifestyle change, patients have to meet certain criteria for weight loss surgeries. If you’re 100 pounds or more over your ideal weight, have Body Mass Index (BMI) over 40, or have a BMI of 35-39.9 with obesity-related health conditions like Obstructive Sleep Apnea or Type 2 Diabetes.  

Our experts at WVU Medicine Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery can help determine if you’re a good candidate for weight loss surgery and offer more insights in one of their informational sessions.
 

There are Multiple Kinds of Weight Loss Surgery 

Weight-loss surgery is not one-size-fits-all, and different procedures are better suited to individual needs. Our team performs minimally invasive and robotic assisted procedures like Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass. In addition, we offer outpatient endoscopic procedures that access the stomach through the mouth.  

Learn more about the procedures and treatments we offer.

Surgical Weight Loss Will be a Journey, and Our Providers Go On It with You

There are steps that need to be taken before, during, and after surgery in order to have successful, long-lasting results and deal with side effects.

Our team provides education, resources, and support on everything from nutrition and meal planning to behavioral health and wellness. This isn’t just a way to lose weight, but a way to keep it off and become healthier for years to come.  

“It’s definitely a journey, and it’s a lifelong relationship we have with our patients.” Dr.  Zubowicz said.  

If you’re interested in learning more about bariatric surgery and medical weight loss tools: Weight-Loss Surgery | Berkeley Medical Center 

Featured Expert

Dr. Elizabeth Zubowicz