Weight Loss Options
Losing weight can be extremely difficult. And for people who have 100 pounds or more to lose, it can be even more challenging. For some, weight loss surgery may offer a solution where other methods have failed. Bariatric surgery can be life transforming, offering individuals an opportunity to lead a more active and satisfying life.
Tennova Healthcare - Clarksville's bariatric surgery program provides education and support that begin before surgery and extend through recovery to help ensure that individuals are set up for success. Our centers include modern patient rooms with family sitting areas and spacious, private bathrooms. The experienced surgeons specialize in bariatric surgery and offer proven weight loss techniques, such as:
Adjustable Gastric Banding – This minimally invasive procedure involves placing an inflatable silicone band around the uppermost part of the stomach to help you feel full sooner and longer. It's a healthy way to lose a significant amount of weight and enjoy long-term results. Surgeons can easily change the diameter of the band to meet weight loss needs, and the procedure is also reversible. This technique offers less pain and a quicker recovery than traditional weight loss surgery methods.
Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy – Through small incisions, the surgeon removes the left side of the stomach so the remaining stomach is approximately one-tenth of the original size after about one year. This "new" stomach has a much smaller capacity, which means patients feel full or satisfied after eating only a small amount of food. The procedure has also proven to reduce the appetite hormone called Grehlin. Less appetite combined with a smaller stomach makes it even easier to eat less food and lose weight.
Gastric Bypass – There are several types of procedures that are used, but all of them bypass part of the small intestine that absorbs nutrients. Bypass techniques involve stapling off an area of the stomach to create a smaller pouch or surgically removing part of the stomach, both of which create a smaller stomach area. Gastric bypass also reduces production of the appetite hormone Grehlin, making it easier to eat less.
Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch – This more complicated weight loss surgery procedure involves removing approximately 50 percent of the stomach and also constructing an intestinal bypass. The smaller stomach, reduction in appetite hormones and significantly reduced calorie absorption in the intestines provide excellent weight loss and long-term resolution of comorbid conditions, such as type 2 diabetes.
Revision and Conversion Surgery – For a variety of reasons, patients may experience the need for revisions, corrections or conversions of their original operation. The bariatric surgeons can evaluate each situation and recommend appropriate treatment.
How will I know what procedure is right for me?
Is Weight Loss Surgery Right for Me?
You may be a candidate for bariatric weight loss surgery if:
- Your body mass index (BMI) is 40 or over.
- Your BMI is 35 or higher and you also suffer from one or more health problems, such as type 2 diabetes or hypertension.
- Your serious attempts to lose weight have had only short-term success.
- You are prepared to make substantial changes in your eating habits and lifestyle.
Talk to your doctor to find out whether bariatric surgery is a good option for you.
Attend a Seminar
You can take the first step in your weight loss surgery journey from the comfort of your own home. During the online seminar, you will learn about the causes of obesity, surgical options for weight loss, typical results and what to expect after surgery. View online seminar.