Frequently Asked Questions

Weight-Loss Surgery Support Groups

Am I a Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?

My First Steps To Bariatric Surgery

Download Important Forms « Cardiac Clearance Form « Clinical History Form « Gastrointestinal Clearance Form « Initial Nutritional Consultation Form « Primary Care Clearance « Pulmonary Clearance Form « Recommended Documentation

Before Surgery

After Surgery

Contact Us

Helpful Links www.drferzli.com

Bariatrics (Obesity)
Telephone 718-630-8446

Lutheran Medical Center is designated BARIATRIC CENTER OF EXCELLENCE by the American Society for Bariatric Surgery and fully accredited level 1B center by the American College of Surgeons.

What is Bariatric Surgery?

Weight reduction surgery for severely obese patients (or obese patients with significant complications related to their weight) who have not been successful at other methods of weight loss.

What are selection criteria for bariatric surgery?

In general, if the patient is 100 pounds or more in excess of their ideal body weight or a (BMI) Body Mass Index of 40, and have not been successful in reducing their weight through controlled diets and/ or medications, he or she may be a candidate. If the patient has significant obesity-related medical problems, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea, a BMI of 35 may be considered .

Types of weight – loss surgery available:

• Gastric-bypass surgery involves reducing the size of the stomach's normal volume from approximately one gallon to a few ounces. In recent years, great strides have been made in using laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery, which requires making much smaller incisions for this procedure, often resulting in shorter hospital stays and quicker recovery. (Read more)

• Lap band surgery offers patients a tool to restrict intake and affect weight loss as well by sectioning off the stomach as opposed to actually changing the size. Patients who have the surgery lose weight because they simply cannot eat as much food comfortably. (Read more)

Results

Within five years of the surgery most patients lose 50 to 75 percent of their excess weight.

Click on "Find a Physician" to make an appointment with one of our bariatric surgeons.

George Ferzli, M.D., Chair of Surgery