Weight-Loss Surgery
If you’re struggling to lose weight with diet and exercise changes, you’re not alone. Obesity is a complex disease that often requires treatment beyond lifestyle modifications. Bariatric surgery can help you lose weight and significantly improve your health and well-being. Our experienced bariatric surgeons have helped more than 3,000 people transform their lives. You could be next.
Take the first step toward bariatric surgery
Maybe you’re just starting to consider bariatric surgery for weight loss, improved energy and self-esteem. Or maybe you’ve been thinking about the health benefits of bariatric surgery for years. No matter how long weight-loss surgery has been on your mind or why, we make it easy for you to learn more about your options at Gundersen. Get started by watching our free informational Weight-Loss Surgery Seminar.
Bariatric Surgery Q&A Panel Discussion
Not sure if bariatric surgery is right for you? Come and talk with people who have experienced the benefits of bariatric surgery directly. Ask questions and hear about life after bariatric surgery from those who've been there.
Weight-loss procedure options
Based on your weight-loss needs and goals, you have options at Gundersen. Gastric bypass and gastric sleeve are today’s safest and most effective surgeries for weight loss, and we also offer non-surgical procedures.
Minimally invasive gastric bypass surgery (laparoscopic Roux en Y)
During a Roux en Y gastric bypass, a surgeon creates an egg-sized pouch from the upper part of your stomach. The pouch is then connected to your small intestine, bypassing your stomach. Doing so can improve reflux, diabetes and other health conditions.
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Gastric sleeve surgery (vertical sleeve gastrectomy or VSG)
During gastric sleeve surgery, a surgeon makes your stomach smaller to limit how much you can eat before you feel full. Your stomach is about the size and shape of a banana after the procedure. Unlike with gastric bypass surgery, the rest of your digestive tract remains unchanged.
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Orbera® intragastric balloon (non-surgical)
With Orbera®, a silicone balloon is inserted with a scope into your stomach. The balloon is then filled with saline until it’s about the size of a grapefruit. After six months, the balloon is removed. The process reinforces portion control.
Adjustable gastric banding maintenance, removal and conversion
We do not place gastric bands or perform lap band surgery at Gundersen, but we'll help you manage your adjustable gastric band if you have one. This includes converting it to a different surgical option if necessary.
Is bariatric surgery right for you?
To qualify for weight-loss surgery, you must:
- Have a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or greater or
- Have a BMI between 30 and 35 with obesity-related medical problems
- Have a history of obesity and tried to lose weight in the past
- Be between 20 and 65 years old (case-by-case basis for patients older than 65 or younger than 20)
- Not smoke or abuse drugs or alcohol
- Commit to long-term follow-up care and lifestyle changes
Experts by your side
Why choose Gundersen for your bariatric surgery?
We’re committed to helping you create lasting change in your life. Our experienced bariatric surgeons take the time to answer all your questions, find the best weight-loss treatment option for you and support you every step of your journey.
Safe, high-quality care
Weight-Loss Surgery at Gundersen has been accredited by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) since 2007. This recognition means we're always working to offer the safest, highest-quality care possible.
Want a second opinion?
Maybe you want options. Maybe you’ve been told a certain weight-loss surgery isn’t for you. Maybe you just want peace of mind. There’s no wrong reason for seeking a second opinion, and our experts are here to help.
Bariatric support group
Weight-loss surgery is a life-changing event. Stay connected with the bariatric team and fellow bariatric surgery patients who have gone through similar challenges and victories. Register for our free monthly support group meetings.
Getting started
Preparing for bariatric surgery often takes six or more months. We’ll be with you every step of the way. Here's what to expect:
Education: Our free online Weight-Loss Surgery Seminar is the first step toward surgery. You'll also attend nutrition classes and other educational opportunities.
Evaluations: Medical, psychological and other evaluations will be done to make sure surgery is the best option for you. If it's not, we'll discuss other treatments.
Payment options & insurance: If your insurance covers weight-loss surgery, you’ll need to meet your carrier’s requirements. We’ll help you navigate this process and submit to your insurer. If you don’t have insurance or you choose to pay out of pocket, we offer competitive prices. Please contact us for more information.
Scheduling surgery: After you meet all program requirements and get the green light to proceed from your insurance company, your surgery and all pre-operative appointments will be scheduled.
Long-term follow-up: Choosing weight-loss surgery means choosing lifelong follow-up care. This means regular visits in the first year and annual visits for life with our weight-loss doctors. We also offer a monthly bariatric support group to help you after surgery.
Patient education & videos
Bariatric surgery is a big decision, but we're here every step of the way. Find educational handouts and videos, recommended by your trusted Gundersen Bariatric Surgeons.
Interested in weight-loss surgery? Let's get started.
Related services
Weight Management
Looking for treatments that don't involve surgery? See our other weight loss and obesity medicine options.
Nutrition Counseling
It can be confusing to know how to fuel your body. Get help from our registered dietitians.
Health & Wellness
Ideas for staying active? Mental health tips? Healthy recipes? Support your weight-loss journey with our online Health & Wellness library.
Schedule an appointment
Call (608) 775-0055
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