bariatric surgery benefits

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Shedding More Than Pounds

It’s well-known that bariatric surgery can produce impressive weight loss. But there’s increasing evidence that it offers other health benefits, too. Bariatric surgery benefits can be seen across a range of life-threatening health problems.

For example, a recent Swedish study showed weight-loss surgery can prevent diabetes among individuals who struggle with obesity.

That news came as no surprise to Anita Courcoulas, MD, professor of surgery and chief of the Section of Minimally Invasive Bariatric and General Surgery at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, an expert on bariatric surgery benefits. “It’s another study demonstrating the lasting impact of bariatric surgery on health improvement,” says Dr. Courcoulas. “The changes are real and durable.”

Benefits of Bariatric Surgery

Dr. Courcoulas says bariatric surgery can help reverse:

Is Bariatric Surgery Right for You?

Current national guidelines recommend bariatric surgery for patients who are 80 to 100 pounds overweight and with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 40, or a BMI of 35 or more for those with one or more significant obesity-related health conditions.

Dr. Courcoulas predicts more and more patients will seek out bariatric surgery for health reasons — not just weight reasons. “We’re just beginning to understand its full potential,” she says.

UPMC Bariatric Services

UPMC Bariatric Services offers a multidisciplinary approach to weight loss through a range of options, including nonsurgical medical weight loss, surgical approaches, support groups, information sessions, and more. Visit our website to learn more about bariatric surgery.

 

Editor's Note: This article was originally published on , and was last reviewed on .

About UPMC Bariatric Services

UPMC Bariatric Services is here to help if you’re struggling with obesity and want to lose weight. We offer both surgical and nonsurgical weight loss plans and can help you find the right path for a weight-loss journey. We will work with you to discuss your needs and develop and individualized treatment plan. We meet the highest level of national accreditation for bariatric surgery centers, and our team provides complete care. We offer our services at UPMC locations throughout Pennsylvania and New York. Visit our website to find a provider near you.