Bariatric Surgery
Find a bariatric surgeon in Nashville/Middle Tennessee
Dr. Patrick Davis
General/Bariatric Surgeon
Southern Hills
Dr. George Lynch
General/Bariatric Surgeon
Downtown Nashville
Dr. James McDowell
General/Bariatric Surgeon
Downtown Nashville
What is Bariatrics?
Bariatric surgery (also known as weight loss surgery) focuses on treating the patient’s digestive organs in order to improve weight loss, type 2 diabetes and heart disease. However, a bariatric surgeon is only one part of our department of bariatrics in Nashville, TN.
To increase the success rate for every one of our patients, our bariatrics patients will work with our team of supporting providers.
Our surgical weight loss and weight management team includes:
Board Certified Bariatric Surgeons
Exercise Physiologists
Insurance Specialists
Nurses
Nutritionists
Bariatric surgery in Nashville, TN
Our bariatric surgeons are located at The Surgical Clinic (Downtown Nashville), Saint Thomas Midtown Hospital and TriStar Southern Hills Hospital in Nashville, TN. Our patients will find a highly experienced staff and highly skilled weight loss surgeons at both locations.
We are prepared to support you and your family from the morning of your surgery until the day you return home. Once home, your surgical weight loss Nashville support team will work with you to help you reach your target weight goal as you become a healthier you.
Bariatric Surgeons
Locations
Resources
Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery for weight loss in Nashville
Bariatric surgery or weight loss surgery is a big step for any patient. While it is highly effective at helping patients lose weight, patients of bariatric surgery (or any type of weight loss surgery) must commit to long-term lifestyle changes.
Our bariatric surgeons focus on helping each patient reach their goals, get through recovery and continue on a path to a healthier lifestyle.
Weight loss surgery
Is bariatric surgery for weight loss right for me?
While weight loss surgery is effective at improving several health problems, it’s an intense process that is only effective in the long term. At The Surgical Clinic in Nashville, good candidates for bariatric surgery meet at least one of the following:
A Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or more
Are 100 pounds overweight
A BMI over 35 with an obesity-related comorbid condition, such as: Type II Diabetes, Hypertension, Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Heart Disease
We also look for candidates who tried non-surgical weight loss treatments but did not meet successful results. Remember, that bariatric surgery is not an easy fix. You will need to be committed to making long-term changes to your daily habits, including diet and exercise.
Patient testimonials for weight loss surgery
Patient testimonials for weight loss surgery
Types of bariatric surgery
There are three different surgical procedures in our bariatrics & surgical weight loss practice in Nashville. All of these procedures can be used to shorten the time required to digest food or reduce the size of the stomach itself. And because these procedures are quite intense, your weight loss surgeon will partner with you to determine which approach will work best for you. They will help you consider whether open bariatric surgery or minimally invasive robotic bariatric surgery will be the best fit for you.
We are all different and our bariatric surgeons at The Surgical Clinics in Nashville understand that your weight loss journey will be unique to you. Rest assured that your Nashville bariatrics care will be customized to fit your specific physical, medical, mental, and emotional needs.
Restrictive Surgery
These procedures focus on limiting the amount of food you can eat by surgically reducing the size of your stomach.
MALABSORPTIVE/RESTRICTIVE SURGERY
These procedures change how your body processes food. First, a surgeon will reduce the size of your stomach to limit the amount of food you eat. Second, the surgeon will create a bypass in your digestive system with your small intestine. As a result, your body’s capacity to process food will be reduced.
SURGICALLY PLACED IMPLANTS
Instead of surgically altering the size of your stomach, bariatric implants physically restrict your digestive system with an external device.
Gastric Bypass Surgery
Roux-en-Y (RNY) surgery is most commonly known as gastric bypass surgery. Gastric bypass surgery is one of the most common weight loss surgeries performed still today. This procedure involves closing off a large portion of your stomach to form a small pouch that is connected directly to your small intestine.
Gastric Balloon Surgery
Intragastric balloon surgery is a surgical treatment to reduce hunger and improve weight loss. This bariatric surgery also offers positive results for GERD, heart disease and obstructive sleep apnea.
Bariatric Vertical Sleeve Surgery
Vertical sleeve gastrectomy surgery (VSG) is a minimally invasive surgery for weight loss. We are pleased to also offer robotic bariatric surgery for even better weight loss surgery results in Tennessee.
Pros and Cons of Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery presents many benefits as well as considerations. On one hand, it offers effective and sustained weight loss, often leading to improved health outcomes and reduced risks of obesity-related conditions. However, the advantages come with potential drawbacks. Surgical risks like infection and bleeding are inherent. Plus, maintaining long-term lifestyle changes can be challenging, emotionally and practically. Weighing the pros and cons alongside individual health needs is crucial when considering bariatric surgery.
Benefits
- Weight Loss: Bariatric surgery can lead to significant and sustained weight loss, which can improve overall health and reduce the risk of obesity-related conditions.
- Relief from Medical Conditions: Many patients experience improvements or even resolution of conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and heart disease after bariatric surgery.
- Improved Quality of Life: Successful weight loss can lead to increased mobility, better self-esteem, and improved mental well-being.
- Long-term Health: Bariatric surgery may extend lifespan by reducing the risk of obesity-related complications.
Risks
- Surgical Risks: Like any surgical procedure, bariatric surgery carries risks such as infection, bleeding, blood clots, and adverse reactions to anesthesia.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Due to reduced food intake and absorption, patients may develop deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, which require lifelong supplementation.
- Gallstones: Rapid weight loss can increase the risk of gallstones.
- Dumping Syndrome: After certain procedures, eating high-sugar or high-fat foods can lead to dumping syndrome, causing symptoms like nausea, sweating, and diarrhea.
- Leaks and Strictures (Narrowing): In some cases, the surgical connections or staples may develop leaks or become narrow, requiring additional interventions.
- Emotional Challenges: Rapid weight loss and lifestyle changes can lead to emotional challenges and adjustments, which might necessitate counseling or support.
Post-Surgery Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes are a crucial aspect of bariatric surgery success. Patients are encouraged to work closely with their healthcare team, including dietitians, exercise physiologists, and mental health professionals, to develop a personalized plan that supports their physical and emotional well-being while achieving their weight loss and health goals. Some lifestyle changes may include:
Post-Bariatric Surgery Lifestyle Changes
- Portion Control: Bariatric surgery reduces the stomach’s capacity, so patients must learn to eat smaller portion sizes to avoid discomfort and promote weight loss. The typical size of a meal once solids are re-introduced is a 1 cup portion. One cup is about the size of a closed fist.
- Slow Eating and Chewing: Eating slowly and chewing food thoroughly can prevent discomfort and aid digestion.
- Mindful Eating: Developing mindfulness around eating can help patients recognize true hunger and fullness cues, preventing overeating.
- Balanced Diet: After surgery, patients need to focus on consuming nutrient-dense foods that provide essential vitamins and minerals. Protein intake is particularly important to support healing and maintain muscle mass. Eat lean meats like skinless chicken breast, fish, and lean beef or pork. Other low-fat protein sources include beans and low-fat dairy, like cottage cheese and fat-free ricotta.
- Vitamin and Mineral Supplementation: Due to reduced food intake and absorption, patients may need to take vitamin and mineral supplements, like B12, iron, and calcium, as recommended by their healthcare provider.
- Hydration: Staying hydrated is still crucial after surgery. Patients should aim to drink enough water throughout the day. Refrain from carbonated beverages and alcohol.
- Avoiding High-Sugar and High-Fat Foods: Many patients experience dumping syndrome when consuming high-sugar or high-fat foods. These foods can lead to nausea, sweating, and other unpleasant symptoms.
- Regular Physical Activity: Engaging in regular exercise is important for maintaining muscle mass, promoting weight loss, and supporting overall well-being.
- Behavioral Changes: Patients are encouraged to address emotional eating habits and establish healthier coping mechanisms for stress and emotions.
- Long-Term Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments with the surgical team help monitor progress, address concerns, and adjust the treatment plan if needed.
Will Insurance Cover Bariatric Surgery?
Some insurance plans cover bariatric surgery if specific criteria are met, such as a high BMI and evidence of weight-related health issues. Patients should check with their insurance provider to understand coverage details and requirements.
For patients without insurance coverage or whose procedures are not covered, we at The Surgical Clinic provide self-payment options and financing plans. Get in touch with us to see how we can help you finance your surgery.
Bariatrics in Nashville at TSC
Ready to take the first step towards a healthier you? Explore the transformative journey of bariatric surgery at The Surgical Clinic. Our skilled team of board-certified surgeons, dietitians, and support specialists is dedicated to your success. Discover effective weight loss, resolution of health conditions, and improved quality of life. We offer a comprehensive approach, guiding you through pre-surgery preparation, the procedure itself, and long-term lifestyle changes. Embrace a brighter future by scheduling a consultation today. Your path to lasting wellness begins here.