We offer information, education, and support before, during, and after surgery.
Our team consists of experienced surgeons, registered dietitians, specialized nurses, physical therapists, and psychologists. Your complete evaluation will help us and you decide if surgery is the right option for you.
The decision to undergo life-changing surgery should not be taken lightly. Weight loss surgery is not a quick fix; it is a major, elective procedure. Ideal candidates are men and women who are 100 or more pounds overweight with a body mass index (BMI) greater than or equal to 40, and who have tried unsuccessfully to lose weight through well-balanced diet and exercise. People who are 75 pounds overweight with a BMI of 35-39.9, and other obesity-related health problems may also be considered for surgery, though all patients should check with their insurance company to find out their guidelines for approving coverage for surgery. If you would like to calculate your BMI, you can view the body mass index calculator provided by the American Society for Metobolic and Bariatric Surgery.
We do not accept candidates under the age of 18. If you are a smoker we will require you to quit before you may begin the program with us. We will ask your physician to order a blood test to verify that you have quit and that result will need to be forwarded to us at the time they refer you.
How to Qualify for EMMC's Surgical Weight Loss Program
Upon being referred to the Surgical Weight Loss Program (SWLP) by your primary care doctor, you will be asked to attend a free education session and a surgical weight loss support group meeting. Registration is required to attend the education session, however, no registration is required to attend our support group meetings. After you have completed these two sessions, the SWLP coordinator will schedule visits for you with our own registered dietitian, physical therapist, and psychologist for continued education and screening. Once completed, you will be scheduled to see the surgeon. If the surgeons and specialists believe surgery may be right for you and you choose to continue, the surgeon's office will contact your insurance company for approval and surgery will be scheduled.