Bariatric/Weight Loss Surgery Program at Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates
Considering Bariatric/Weight Loss Surgery?
Bariatric/weight loss surgery has shown to provide a safe and effective alternative for people with severe obesity who have not experienced substantial weight loss through diet and exercise. It is recommended by the National Institutes of Health if severe obesity does not respond to medical management or induces serious medical conditions. In addition to substantial weight loss, people who undergo bariatric surgery find improvement in or resolution of many medical problems, a decrease in medication requirements, improved fertility and an overall improvement in self-esteem and quality of life.
Improving your overall health should be a primary reason for undergoing this surgery. Bariatric/weight loss surgery involves restrictive procedures that decrease food intake and malabsorptive procedures that alter digestion. Procedures are performed laparoscopically and are minimally invasive.
Criteria for Surgery
To qualify for weight loss surgery, you must have severe obesity. The degree of obesity can be calculated by using a BMI (Body Mass Index) table. If you have a BMI of 40 or higher you may qualify for surgery. If you have a BMI between 35 and 40 and have major medical conditions such as diabetes or sleep apnea, you may also be eligible.
Keep in mind that health insurance coverage for bariatric surgery varies by plan; patients should check with their health plan to determine if this surgery will be covered.
At Harvard Vanguard, your specialist, primary care physician and other members of the medical team work closely to coordinate your care across all services. In addition, our advanced electronic medical record ensures that our medical professionals have easy access to your medical history and the latest information regarding your condition, your medication and your treatment.
For More Information
Harvard Vanguard's bariatric/weight loss surgery program offers a wide range of specialized care for patients. For program details and direct referral information, please contact Alicja Szewczyk at 617.983.4577.