Why Choose Weight Loss Surgery?

Depending on your health issues and needs, bariatric surgery might be your best treatment option. Nearly 90% of people who choose bariatric surgery lose weight and stay healthy long-term.

Contributed by: Aneesha McClinton, MD | Surgery

Bariatric (weight loss) surgery is proven to be an effective way to help you lose weight and keep it off. According to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS), bariatric surgery is as safe or even safer than common surgeries like appendectomies and knee replacements.

Still, you may have questions. Aneesah McClinton, MD, a bariatric surgeon who recently joined MetroHealth, has answers.

How do I know if I’m a good candidate for bariatric surgery?

We follow the standards set by the ASMBS, which say that if you have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, and you suffer from a health condition related to obesity — such as diabetes, high blood pressure, obstructive sleep apnea, osteoarthritis or GERD — you are a candidate. Or, if you have a BMI of 35, even without any of those related conditions.

Now that there are medications that can help me lose weight, why would I choose surgery?

Medications such as Ozempic, Victoza and Wegovy help people lose weight, but they only work while you take them and sometimes have unwanted side effects. If you go off them, you can regain the weight.

With bariatric surgery, patients can lose up to 77% of excess weight as early as 12 months after surgery and have a better likelihood of keeping it off long-term. Even more important, most people no longer need the medications they were taking for obesity-related problems like diabetes and high blood pressure.

Can weight loss surgery be done robotically?

Yes, and it’s an important advancement, because robot-assisted surgery is minimally invasive, which means most people spend less time in the hospital and recover more quickly. The robot is used as an extension of the surgeon’s hands, giving them a 3D view and greater mobility. Robotic surgery is approved by the FDA for weight loss procedures.

Where I find out more?

Call 216-778-7433 or visit our website for more information.

Ready to start your weight loss journey?

Reach out to your primary care provider to determine which weight loss option is right for you. To schedule an appointment, call 216-696-3876 or visit metrohealth.org/appointments

For more information, visit metrohealth.org/weight-management.

MetroHealth has consistently earned a Comprehensive Center accreditation from the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program.