Loyola Center for Metabolic Surgery & Bariatric Care

Different surgeries meet different needs

Surgery for weight loss, commonly called bariatric surgery, is increasingly seen as an important tool in helping people lose significant amounts of excess weight. Because these surgeries have proven to be effective in treating metabolic diseases and conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension and lipid disorders, they are also referred to as metabolic surgeries.

Our surgical program incorporates many components of the medical weight loss program, both to ensure you are in safe condition for surgery and for post-surgical care and long-term maintenance after surgery. Some patients – for example, those with heart or lung disease, depression, or alcohol or drug dependency – may need additional treatment before they are ready for surgery.

In consultation with our surgeons, you will determine which type of surgery best fits your needs, based on your goals, preferences and health. The vast majority of the time these surgeries can be performed laparoscopically. This means that a tiny camera and surgical instruments are inserted through small incisions in your abdomen, and the surgeon conducts the procedure while viewing it on a video monitor. Laparoscopic procedures are generally preferred because they have fewer complications and allow for a quicker recovery.

Surgery is not a quick fix. Whatever type of surgery you have, weight reduction will be gradual, and you will need to make lifelong changes in your lifestyle and diet. After your surgery, you’ll have help and support for your weight loss. 

Read more about the main surgical weight-loss options offered at the Loyola Center for Metabolic Surgery and Bariatric Care:

• Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB)
• Roux-en-Y gastric bypass
• Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy