Bariatric Surgery

Transform Your Life with Bariatric Surgery

Are you struggling with excess weight and its associated health issues? Great River Health's dedicated bariatrics program offers a solution tailored to your needs.

Unlocking Lasting Results with Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery, commonly known as weight-loss surgery, stands as the most effective method for individuals battling severe obesity. Beyond losing weight, it presents a viable pathway to addressing critical medical conditions like diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, and sleep apnea.

At Great River Health, our holistic approach involves a team of specialists, including surgeons, family physicians, dietitians, and psychologists, committed to guiding you through every stage of your weight-loss journey.

Understanding Bariatric Surgery

What is Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatrics is a clinical term related to the study of causes, prevention, and treatment of obesity. The field includes nutrition, exercise, behavioral therapy, and weight-loss surgery.

Unlike conventional methods like dieting and exercise, bariatric surgery offers a substantial and sustained reduction in excess weight. By either restricting stomach capacity or altering the digestive process, these surgeries pave the way for transformative weight loss, often in the range of 50 to 70 percent of excess weight.

Types of Bariatric Surgeries

Great River Heath’s Bariatric team specializes in three laparoscopic weight-loss procedures:

• Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: A gold standard in weight-loss surgery, this procedure creates a smaller stomach pouch and reroutes the intestine to reduce food absorption, yielding remarkable weight loss results.

• Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: By removing a significant portion of the stomach, this restrictive surgery limits food intake while preserving normal digestion, offering sustainable weight loss with minimal risks.

• Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding: Employing an adjustable band around the stomach, this minimally invasive procedure facilitates gradual weight loss by restricting food consumption, making it a popular choice for many patients.

Choosing the type of procedure for each patient is based on several factors, including age, health, medical history, the extent of obesity and obesity-related health problems, the surgeon’s recommendation, and the patient’s expectations and preferences.

Is Bariatric Surgery Right for Me?

Wondering if bariatric surgery aligns with your goals? To qualify for our program, consider the following:

• Are you 18 years or older?

• Do you have a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or above, with obesity-related health issues, or a BMI of 40 or greater?

• Have you struggled with traditional weight-loss methods?

If you meet these criteria and possess the commitment to embrace lifestyle changes, you're ready to embark on this transformative journey.

Learn More About Bariatric Surgery

Join our seminar to learn more and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you. Register by calling Great River Health's Bariatric Coordinator, Mescha Bunnell, at 319-768-4354.

For information about the cost of bariatric surgery, please call Patient Financial Services-Patient Billing at 319-768-3625, option 2.

Join a Bariatric Support Group

Are you looking for a safe space to process your feelings around your bariatric journey? Would you like to meet other adults who may be able to relate to you?

5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

First and Third Wednesday Every Month

Blackhawk Room

Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center, West Burlington

To secure your spot, contact our Bariatric Coordinator at 319-768-4350.