UMass Memorial Medical Center Bariatric Center

UMass Memorial Medical Center offers a variety of programs and evaluation for bariatric (weight loss) surgery, which is known to be the most effective and long-lasting treatment for morbid obesity and many related conditions. Recognized for an ongoing commitment to safety and patient-focused care, our program has been accredited as a Comprehensive Center for weight loss surgery by the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Metabolic and Bariatric Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program since 2006. UMass Memorial received the Healthgrades 2012-2013 Bariatric Surgery Excellence Award and in 2012 was ranked #1 in Massachusetts for overall bariatric surgery. Our four surgeons together have more than 30 years of experience and have helped more than 4,000 patients reach their weight-loss goals through safe and effective bariatric surgery.   According to the American Society for Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery, bariatric surgery may be among the most effective treatments for diseases and conditions including: Type 2 diabetes Hypertension High cholesterol Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease Obstructive sleep apnea Are You a Candidate for Bariatric (Weight Loss) Surgery? According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, you may be a candidate for bariatric surgery if: You have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more (about 100 pounds overweight) You have a BMI between 35 and 39.9 AND a serious obesity-related health problem such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension or severe sleep apnea Not sure of your BMI? Use this calculator to find out.  Take the first step toward a healthy life and register for a free orientation meeting. Bariatric Surgery from UMass Memorial Medical Center We offer the most advanced bariatric procedures and most are done laparoscopically, without a major incision. This means less postoperative pain and a quicker return to full activities. Our minimally invasive procedures include: Adjustable Gastric Banding (lap band technique)This procedure involves the placement of an adjustable silicone band around the upper region of the stomach to create a small pouch. In the weeks and months following the procedure, the opening of the stomach can be adjusted by injecting or withdrawing fluid from a "port" under the skin that is attached to a balloon inside the band. Sleeve GastrectomyThis is a new surgical weight loss procedure in which a large portion of the stomach is removed, leaving only a "tube" that greatly reduces the stomach's capacity, which helps to promote early feelings of fullness and reduces food intake. Roux-en-Y Gastric BypassIn this procedure, a small stomach pouch is created and connects directly to the small intestine, bypassing the rest of the stomach and upper part of the small intestine, helping patients lose weight. - See more at: http://www.umassmemorialhealthcare.org/umass-memorial-medical-center/services-treatments/surgery/services-we-provide/bariatric-surgery#sthash.IxDWnARB.dpuf