• Professional staff fully trained in bariatric medicine
• Dignified, supportive hospital care
• Internal medicine or specialty consultations as required
• Psychological evaluation and/or support
• Nutritional and exercise guidance
• Anesthesia professionals trained and accomplished in bariatric surgery
• Life-long follow-up program and; Support Group system

Our internal medicine panel has expertise in the challenges related to clinically severe obesity which include but are not limited to nutritional status, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, bone and joint problems, hyperlipidemia, sleep apnea, respiratory, and other potential problems.

The psychiatric/psychosocial consultations are performed to ensure there are no potential circumstances that might hinder postoperative recovery and long-term success.  Issues considered include evaluation of realistic expectations with respect to the surgery, appropriate psychological readiness, risk of postoperative depression, ability to comprehend and carry out required postoperative lifestyle changes, and commitment to long-term follow-up and personal exercise program.

Nutritional and exercise physiology evaluations establish the most appropriate and safe course for our patients.  Our hospital dietary department will be available for individual and group education.  Exercise is essential for the successful treatment of clinically severe obesity and is given a prominent role in the team approach.  In general, exercise is fundamental for good health and especially important for weight loss and weight maintenance.

A multi-disciplinary program as outlined above and suggested in the 1991 NIH Report is required to maximize the opportunity for our patients to achieve long-term success and experience the same quality and length of life the person who does not suffer from morbid obesity enjoys.