Weight Loss Surgery

When other medically supervised methods have failed, surgery offers the best option of long-term weight control for those with clinically severe obesity.

Southcoast offers two types of weight loss surgery:

• The Rouxen-Y gastric bypass, a procedure that involves modification of the stomach so that only a small amount of food can be eaten at one time.

• LAP-BAND®, or adjustable gastric banding, is a relatively new procedure that involves inserting an adjustable, silicone band around the top part of the stomach.

The best thing to do is discuss your options with the gastric bypass surgeon and decide which is best for you.

More Information ~ FREE Seminars

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

Free educational seminars are held every month on gastric bypass surgery for morbid obesity.

• First Wednesday of each month
  7 p.m.
  The Cape Codder
  1225 Iyanough Road & Bearse's Way, Hyannis

• Second Tuesday of each month
  6:30 p.m.
  Medical Library on the first floor
  Tobey Hospital
  43 High Street, Wareham

• Second Wednesday of each month (beginning May 13, 2009)
  7 p.m.
  White's of Westport
  Colonial Room, 66 State Road, Westport

• Third Tuesday of every month
  7 p.m.
  Southcoast Center for Women's Health
  300 Faunce Corner Road, North Dartmouth

• Fourth Tuesday of each month
  6:30 p.m.
  Medical Library on the first floor
  Tobey Hospital
  43 High Street, Wareham

Please call 508-295-3900 for further information and to register for the free seminar.

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.