New | Learn more about our OPTIFAST® program

Southcoast Hospitals has been designated a Center of Excellence by the American Society for Bariatric Surgery

Some 400,000 Americans die prematurely each year of obesity-related complications such as high blood pressure and diabetes.

Millions of Americans fall into the category of clinically severe obesity — more than 100 pounds overweight with a body mass index greater than 40. (Body mass index is a calculation of weight in relation to height.)

Gastric bypass surgery has been endorsed by a consensus panel convened by the National Institutes of Health as the only effective means of inducing significant long-term weight loss for the vast majority of patients with morbid obesity.

Our community-based program is designed to incorporate a thorough approach to weight loss surgery utilizing a team comprised of dieticians, psychologists and surgeons to provide a safe and comprehensive surgical weight loss program.

Potential patients must attend a free informational session at Tobey Hospital that is held monthly to provide information about gastric bypass surgery and explain the risks and benefits.

Southcoast also offers a comprehensive medical weight loss program in conjunction with OPTIFAST®.

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Important Note to Patients

Like any major surgery, major abdominal surgeries such as procedures to treat morbid obesity bring a significant risk of complications. It is important to remember that those afflicted with morbid obesity may have additional elevated serious risks, or co-morbidities, including diabetes, hypertension and severe pulmonary issues, which can cause further complications during this or any surgical procedure. This surgery is only performed after patients participate in a lengthy screening and orientation process that involves their families and all of their existing health care providers, including their primary care physician. Patients are also required to undergo medical counseling and engage in health and lifestyle practices that are designed to reduce co-morbidities to whatever extent possible.

You should always contact your Primary Care Physician to discuss any questions or concerns related to your medical history and options for choice, particularly if you are planning to undergo any surgery or partake in a new medical regimen.