Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence
You can trust Rex Bariatrics Specialists for your care. Rex Hospital is a Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) accredited comprehensive center of excellence for weight-loss surgery. This national endorsement distinguishes our program to include the following:
- Fellowship-trained and board-certified bariatric surgeons
- An integrated health team with expertise in bariatric care: medical weight management physicians, registered dietitians, psychologists, health educators, nurse coordinators, and patient mentors
- Imaging equipment, surgical tools, and hospital infrastructure expressly designed for your safety and comfort
- Strict training and policy measures to assure thoughtful and well-planned bariatric care
Rex Hospital is designated as a Blue Distinction Center. This means you can count on us for not only affordable, high-value care but also the highest-quality outcomes.
Benefits of Weight-Loss Surgery
Weight loss surgery, combined with long-term healthy lifestyle changes, can help you lose significant weight and improve conditions such as:
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Sleep apnea
- Type 2 diabetes mellitus
- Joint pain
Ideal Candidates for Bariatric Surgery
Candidates for bariatric surgery are at least 18 years old. Patients qualify for bariatric surgery insurance coverage if they have a BMI of 35-40 with an obesity-related co-morbidity or if they have a BMI of 40 or greater, regardless of co-morbidity status. Patients who have been unable to lose weight with regular dieting and exercise are the best candidates for bariatric surgery. Candidates must be committed to a healthy lifestyle coupled with a proper diet and regular exercise.
Your Bariatric Surgery Consultation
Patients can watch our online video seminar or join our virtual Zoom seminar before scheduling a consultation. During your one-on-one consultation, you will discuss your weight-loss goals and the struggles you have encountered when trying to achieve them. Our surgeon will look over your medical history and relevant health conditions to design your most suitable treatment plan. You must let your surgeon know about any medications you are currently taking, including diet pills, as well as any weight-loss procedures you have undergone. This will help minimize the chance of complications during bariatric surgery. The treatment plan will be thoroughly explained to you. Preparatory instructions will be provided in addition to what you can expect after the surgery. Potential fees included in the surgery will also be discussed so the patient can prepare their budget. The patient can ask questions at any time during this consultation.
Schedule Your Consultation
Find out if you qualify for bariatric surgery, and learn about the weight-loss procedures available to you with our surgeons in Raleigh.
Bariatric Surgery Options at Rex UNC Health Care Bariatric Specialists
At Rex UNC Health Care Bariatric Specialists, we offer a range of minimally invasive surgical options to help you achieve lasting weight loss and improved health. Each procedure is designed to address obesity and its associated health conditions while providing long-term results. Below are the bariatric surgery options available to patients.
- Laparoscopic Duodenal Switch
The duodenal switch is a powerful bariatric surgery that combines restrictive and malabsorptive components to promote significant weight loss. It involves removing a portion of the stomach and rerouting part of the small intestine. This dual approach limits food intake and reduces the number of calories your body absorbs. It is especially effective for individuals with higher BMI or those dealing with obesity-related conditions like diabetes.
- Laparoscopic SADI-S (Single Anastomosis Duodeno-Ileal Bypass with Sleeve Gastrectomy)
SADI-S is a simplified version of the duodenal switch, providing similar weight loss benefits with a lower risk of complications. This procedure involves sleeve gastrectomy (removal of a portion of the stomach) and rerouting part of the small intestine, reducing calorie absorption. SADI-S offers substantial weight loss results and can also improve metabolic conditions such as type 2 diabetes.
- Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass
The gastric bypass, also known as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, is one of the most commonly performed bariatric surgeries. It reduces the size of the stomach and bypasses part of the small intestine, decreasing calorie intake and absorption. This procedure has proven effective for long-term weight loss.
- Laparoscopic Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy)
The gastric sleeve is a restrictive surgery that reduces the stomach size. This limits the amount of food you can eat. Gastric sleeve surgery is popular due to its simplicity and effectiveness in achieving significant weight loss without altering nutrient absorption.
- Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG)
ESG is a non-surgical, endoscopic procedure that reduces the size of the stomach using sutures, creating a sleeve-like structure. Unlike traditional surgeries, ESG requires no incisions, resulting in a quicker recovery time and fewer risks. It is an effective option for individuals who need to lose weight but may not qualify for or prefer a more invasive surgery.
What Is Bariatric Surgery Like?
Bariatric surgery is safe and effective. General anesthesia will be administered at the start of bariatric surgery. The surgeon will then perform the bariatric surgery procedure chosen during the consultation. The procedure will be performed laparoscopically, or minimally invasively.
The Bariatric Surgery Recovery Period
Most patients stay one night in the hospital and go home the day after surgery. The patient will be given medications to minimize the pain and swelling while recovering. Specific instructions will be given to make recovery as comfortable as possible and to reduce the risk of complications. Our surgeon will schedule a follow-up appointment to check on the progress of your recovery and determine when you are allowed to return to normal physical activities. Results will start to show in the months after the patient has fully recovered.
Bariatric Surgery Cost in Raleigh
The cost of bariatric surgery depends on the treatment plan and bariatric surgery option used. Contact your health insurance company to determine whether the price of the surgery will be covered. We also offer convenient payment options for our patients.
Patient SUCCESS STORIES
See how your neighbors’ lives changed after weight-loss surgery at Rex Bariatric Specialists in Raleigh, Wakefield, Cary, and Garner, NC.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bariatric Surgery
What can I eat after bariatric surgery?
Your diet will change significantly after bariatric surgery. Initially, you’ll follow a liquid diet, gradually progressing to soft foods and eventually reintroducing solid foods. Your care team will guide you through each phase, emphasizing the importance of nutrient-rich, smaller portions to promote effective weight loss and long-term health.
How does bariatric surgery impact my lifestyle?
Bariatric surgery will have a profound effect on your daily routine. Beyond the physical changes, you’ll adopt new habits focusing on healthier food choices, regular physical activity, and long-term follow-up care. The goal is not only weight loss but also improved quality of life and the management of weight-related health conditions.
How long do I have to stay in the hospital after bariatric surgery?
The length of your hospital stay will depend on the type of surgery performed. Typically, patients stay for one night in the hospital.
How can I maintain my weight loss after bariatric surgery?
Maintaining weight loss requires a commitment to lifelong lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and continuous support from your healthcare team. Regular follow-up appointments, participation in support groups, and maintaining healthy habits will help you achieve sustained success.
Patient Testimonials
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