How can bariatric surgery improve my overall health?

Bariatric surgery is the most effective and long-lasting treatment for obesity. It can have overall health benefits like: Continue Reading Increased ability for physical activities Improved fertility and hormone levels Improved quality of life Improved self-esteem Improved sexual function Reduced dependence on medications Reduced risk of disease Extended life expectancy Studies have shown that many bariatric surgery patients experience remission of obesity-related diseases like: Type 2 diabetes Prediabetes and metabolic syndrome High blood pressure High cholesterol Heart disease Obstructive sleep apnea Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Joint disease Back pain Fatty liver disease Asthma and lung disease Depression and anxiety Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) Kidney disease Risk for numerous cancers Risk of strokes Collapse Answer

Who qualifies for bariatric surgery?

There are certain criteria for bariatric surgery. You may be a candidate if you: Continue Reading Are over the age of 18 Have a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or greater, regardless of the presence, absence or severity of comorbidities Have a metabolic disease, such as diabetes, with a BMI of 30 to 34.9 Guidelines also recommend adjusting the BMI threshold in the Asian population such that a BMI ≥ 25 suggests clinical obesity, and individuals with a BMI ≥ 27.5 should be offered metabolic and bariatric surgery. Although the guidelines for surgery listed above are supported by medical research and population studies, most insurance companies will not consider coverage for metabolic surgery unless your BMI is greater than 35. Collapse Answer

Which bariatric surgery procedure is right for me?

The best weight-loss procedure for you will be determined at your consultation appointment when you talk with your bariatric surgeon. The decision is based on various factors, like: Continue Reading Any health conditions (like diabetes or GERD) Any previous attempts at weight loss Your body mass index (BMI) Your health history overall Collapse Answer

What is the cost of bariatric surgery, and will my insurance cover it?

The coverage related to bariatric surgery depends on the type of coverage your insurance plan provides. It’s unlikely that your insurance provider will pay 100% of the surgical costs. We recommend that you call them to gain a better understanding of the coverage approved. If they ask for the CPT code for your procedure, use the following: Continue Reading Gastric bypass CPT code: 43644 Gastric sleeve CPT code: 43775 During this phone call with your insurance company, they can also provide you with steps you will need to take to obtain weight-loss surgical coverage. Collapse Answer

What are some bariatric surgery risks?

The side effects and complications listed below are inherent risks when undergoing a bariatric surgical procedure. The overall mortality risk for individuals undergoing a bariatric surgical procedure is less than 0.1%. Given this low rate, it’s important to compare the risk of surgery with the risk of persistent obesity and the medical complications associated with this disease. Some bariatric surgery side effects and complications can include: Continue Reading Lung complications such as atelectasis, pneumonia or pulmonary embolism Infections such as abscesses, wound infections and urinary tract infections Bleeding Blood clots Intestinal complications, such as bowel obstruction, leak and paralytic ileus Acid reflux Dumping syndrome Hernia Re-operation Anesthesia-related complications Inability to eat certain foods Chronic nutritional problems, such as protein deficiency, vitamin deficiency and mineral deficiency Collapse Answer

How long do bariatric procedures take?

The bariatric surgery process and average procedure time vary on multiple factors, like the type of surgery. For example, a gastric bypass procedure usually takes about one to two hours, and a gastric sleeve procedure may take 45 minutes to an hour and a half. Continue Reading Before your surgery, your care team will be sure to go over all the details of your procedure, including how long you’ll be in the operating room, so all your specific questions are answered. Collapse Answer

How rapid is weight loss after bariatric surgery?

Bariatric surgery is incredibly life-changing, and post-bariatric surgery results are wonderful for many people. Most patients will lose about 65% of their excess weight in 18 months (one and a half years), and most of the weight comes off in the first year. Continue Reading Due to this rapid weight loss during the first 18 months after surgery, it is recommended that patients avoid pregnancy until after 18 months. Collapse Answer

How much excess skin will I have after surgery?

It varies, but most patients who experience substantial weight loss will have some extra skin. Exercising to tone muscles will help. Removal of the extra skin is usually considered cosmetic, and coverage depends on your insurance policy. Rarely do weight-loss surgery patients ever proceed with surgery to remove skin. Continue Reading We recommend you first reach your weight-loss goal and then undergo surgery to remove your excess skin, if desired. Collapse Answer

How do I get started, and what are the next steps?

Simply click the “Get Started Now” button to complete a short intake form and watch our online information session. Upon completion, you will then be asked to complete a short quiz and medical intake form. After completing all the necessary steps, a member of our team will contact you regarding the next steps to scheduling a one-on-one consultation with one of our surgeons. Continue Reading During this consultation, the surgeon will complete a pre-operative evaluation. Additional pre-operative consultations may be needed based on your individual needs. After completing all the required steps, surgery will be scheduled between six weeks and six months following your initial consultation, depending on your insurance requirements and individual needs. Collapse Answer

Will my hunger go away after surgery?

No operation eliminates hunger completely; it is a survival instinct and a necessary bodily function. Weight-loss surgery will reduce your hunger, especially in the first few months after the operation.

What percentage of people can lose weight after surgery and keep it off long-term?

About 75% of those who undergo bariatric surgery can successfully lose weight and keep it off long-term.

Is long-term follow-up required?

Yes. Long-term follow-up is required for life following bariatric surgery. We have found that long-term follow-up is key to lasting success.

What is dumping syndrome?

Dumping syndrome is actually an adrenaline rush caused by too many carbohydrates entering the intestine too quickly. Continue Reading Symptoms are palpitations, sweating and a weak-in-the-knees feeling. One-quarter of patients who receive a gastric bypass will experience this. This condition is unusual with the gastric sleeve but can occur specifically if a patient drinks fluid while eating. Collapse Answer

Do I have to take vitamins and minerals for life?

After your surgery, you will be advised to take multivitamins and other supplements for the rest of your life. You will receive a handout with these requirements in your nutrition class. These requirements will also be reviewed with you during that class.

Can I continue to exercise following weight-loss surgery?

Absolutely! You can begin low-impact, non-strenuous exercise immediately following surgery. After recovering for about four weeks, you will be encouraged to incorporate unrestricted exercise into your routine.

If I’m considering bariatric surgery, how do I get started?

The first step is to click “Get Started Now” on this page to complete a short intake form and watch our online information session. Upon completion, you will then be asked to complete a short quiz. After completing all the necessary steps, a member of our team will contact you regarding the next steps to scheduling a one-on-one consultation with one of our surgeons. Continue Reading During this consultation, the surgeon will complete a pre-operative evaluation. Additional pre-operative consultations may be needed based on your individual needs. After completing all the required steps, surgery will be scheduled between six weeks and six months after your initial consultation, depending on your insurance requirements and individual needs. Collapse Answer

Bariatric Surgery

Feel Empowered to Transform Your Life

Bariatric surgery is a safe and effective weight-loss solution that can benefit your whole-person health, too. At AdventHealth Redmond, our compassionate bariatric team has delivered personalized care to Rome and the surrounding communities for decades. We partner with the experienced team at the Harbin Clinic Bariatric Center, and together, we’ll help you transform your life.

An AdventHealth doctor talking with a patient of color — Discover the Bariatric Surgeon **Who’s Right for You**

When you’re ready to make a choice that could change your life, we’re here to help you get started. Our compassionate and experienced bariatric surgeons in Rome are ready to meet with you, walk through your options and develop a care plan for your unique needs and goals.

Find a Bariatric Surgeon

Types of Bariatric Surgery Our Team Offers

Despite their best efforts, many people struggle to achieve a healthy weight through diet and exercise. But you’re not alone, and our team is here to help. In the AdventHealth Redmond Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery Program, we offer the latest weight-loss surgeries to help you achieve your goals. Our advanced procedures offer faster healing times, minimal scarring and a quicker return to the life you love.

Sleeve Gastrectomy

During a sleeve gastrectomy procedure, a surgeon creates a small, sleeve-shaped stomach, removing approximately 75 to 80% of the stomach. This new stomach can hold between 60 to 120 milliliters or 2 to 4 ounces. The stomach pouch created is about the size of a banana.
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery

During a gastric bypass procedure, a surgeon creates a small pouch-like stomach. This new stomach resembles the size of an egg and can hold 30 to 60 milliliters or 1 to 2 ounces. During this procedure, the surgeon also reroutes the small intestine and connects it to the newly formed pouch or “stomach.”
Revisions and Conversions

For patients having inadequate weight loss or complications from Lap-Band® surgery, we offer conversions to more effective surgical solutions.
Minimally Invasive Surgery

Our team offers the most advanced robotic-assisted and laparoscopic procedures, which mean fewer incisions, less scarring and a faster recovery. Patients are typically released from the hospital the day after surgery, and depending on their occupation, many patients return to work in one to two weeks.

Bariatric Surgeons and Clinicians Helping You Feel Whole

Our Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery team at AdventHealth Redmond is here for you every step of the way on the road to a healthier you.

J. Ryland Scott, MD, FACS

Bariatric and General Surgeon

Program Medical Director

Peter Adams, MD

Bariatric and General Surgeon

P. Bennett Brock Jr, MD

Bariatric and General Surgeon

Sarah Hunt, MSN, RN, CCRN

Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Coordinator

Award-Winning Care That’s Rewarding for You

Fortune/Merative™ 100 Top Hospitals®

AdventHealth Redmond is recognized as one of the nation's 100 Top Hospitals® and the number-one top teaching hospital by Fortune and Merative™. This annual list recognizes excellence in clinical outcomes, operational efficiency, patient experience and financial health. 100 Top Hospitals® is a registered trademark of Merative™.
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Five-Star Quality Rating

AdventHealth Redmond is one of 429 hospitals nationwide to receive a five-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for 2022. This is the highest possible achievement of CMS’s Overall Hospital Quality Star Ratings.
Georgia Hospital Association Circle of Excellence for Patient Safety and Quality

AdventHealth Redmond is a recipient of the Georgia Hospital Association Circle of Excellence for Patient Safety and Quality award. This award is given to hospitals that have demonstrated a sustained commitment to patient safety and quality, as evidenced by winning for the current year and winning three or more Patient Safety and Quality awards in the past five years.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bariatric Surgery

Question: How can bariatric surgery improve my overall health?
Answer:
Bariatric surgery is the most effective and long-lasting treatment for obesity. It can have overall health benefits like:
Continue Reading

Increased ability for physical activities

Improved fertility and hormone levels

Improved quality of life

Improved self-esteem

Improved sexual function

Reduced dependence on medications

Reduced risk of disease

Extended life expectancy

Studies have shown that many bariatric surgery patients experience remission of obesity-related diseases like:

Type 2 diabetes

Prediabetes and metabolic syndrome

High blood pressure

High cholesterol

Heart disease

Obstructive sleep apnea

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Joint disease

Back pain

Fatty liver disease

Asthma and lung disease

Depression and anxiety

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)

Kidney disease

Risk for numerous cancers

Risk of strokes

Collapse Answer
Question: Who qualifies for bariatric surgery?
Answer:
There are certain criteria for bariatric surgery. You may be a candidate if you:
Continue Reading

Are over the age of 18

Have a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or greater, regardless of the presence, absence or severity of comorbidities

Have a metabolic disease, such as diabetes, with a BMI of 30 to 34.9

Guidelines also recommend adjusting the BMI threshold in the Asian population such that a BMI ≥ 25 suggests clinical obesity, and individuals with a BMI ≥ 27.5 should be offered metabolic and bariatric surgery.

Although the guidelines for surgery listed above are supported by medical research and population studies, most insurance companies will not consider coverage for metabolic surgery unless your BMI is greater than 35.

Collapse Answer
Question: Which bariatric surgery procedure is right for me?
Answer:
The best weight-loss procedure for you will be determined at your consultation appointment when you talk with your bariatric surgeon. The decision is based on various factors, like:
Continue Reading

Any health conditions (like diabetes or GERD)

Any previous attempts at weight loss

Your body mass index (BMI)

Your health history overall

Collapse Answer
Question: What is the cost of bariatric surgery, and will my insurance cover it?
Answer:
The coverage related to bariatric surgery depends on the type of coverage your insurance plan provides. It’s unlikely that your insurance provider will pay 100% of the surgical costs. We recommend that you call them to gain a better understanding of the coverage approved. If they ask for the CPT code for your procedure, use the following:
Continue Reading

Gastric bypass CPT code: 43644

Gastric sleeve CPT code: 43775

During this phone call with your insurance company, they can also provide you with steps you will need to take to obtain weight-loss surgical coverage.

Collapse Answer
Question: What are some bariatric surgery risks?
Answer:
The side effects and complications listed below are inherent risks when undergoing a bariatric surgical procedure. The overall mortality risk for individuals undergoing a bariatric surgical procedure is less than 0.1%. Given this low rate, it’s important to compare the risk of surgery with the risk of persistent obesity and the medical complications associated with this disease.

Some bariatric surgery side effects and complications can include:
Continue Reading

Lung complications such as atelectasis, pneumonia or pulmonary embolism

Infections such as abscesses, wound infections and urinary tract infections

Bleeding

Blood clots

Intestinal complications, such as bowel obstruction, leak and paralytic ileus

Acid reflux

Dumping syndrome

Hernia

Re-operation

Anesthesia-related complications

Inability to eat certain foods

Chronic nutritional problems, such as protein deficiency, vitamin deficiency and mineral deficiency

Collapse Answer
Question: How long do bariatric procedures take?

Answer:

The bariatric surgery process and average procedure time vary on multiple factors, like the type of surgery. For example, a gastric bypass procedure usually takes about one to two hours, and a gastric sleeve procedure may take 45 minutes to an hour and a half.

Continue Reading

Before your surgery, your care team will be sure to go over all the details of your procedure, including how long you’ll be in the operating room, so all your specific questions are answered.

Collapse Answer
Question: How rapid is weight loss after bariatric surgery?

Answer:

Bariatric surgery is incredibly life-changing, and post-bariatric surgery results are wonderful for many people. Most patients will lose about 65% of their excess weight in 18 months (one and a half years), and most of the weight comes off in the first year.

Continue Reading

Due to this rapid weight loss during the first 18 months after surgery, it is recommended that patients avoid pregnancy until after 18 months.

Collapse Answer
Question: How much excess skin will I have after surgery?

Answer:

It varies, but most patients who experience substantial weight loss will have some extra skin. Exercising to tone muscles will help. Removal of the extra skin is usually considered cosmetic, and coverage depends on your insurance policy. Rarely do weight-loss surgery patients ever proceed with surgery to remove skin.

Continue Reading

We recommend you first reach your weight-loss goal and then undergo surgery to remove your excess skin, if desired.

Collapse Answer
Question: How do I get started, and what are the next steps?

Answer:

Simply click the “Get Started Now” button to complete a short intake form and watch our online information session. Upon completion, you will then be asked to complete a short quiz and medical intake form. After completing all the necessary steps, a member of our team will contact you regarding the next steps to scheduling a one-on-one consultation with one of our surgeons.

Continue Reading

During this consultation, the surgeon will complete a pre-operative evaluation. Additional pre-operative consultations may be needed based on your individual needs. After completing all the required steps, surgery will be scheduled between six weeks and six months following your initial consultation, depending on your insurance requirements and individual needs.

Collapse Answer
Question: Will my hunger go away after surgery?

Answer:

No operation eliminates hunger completely; it is a survival instinct and a necessary bodily function. Weight-loss surgery will reduce your hunger, especially in the first few months after the operation.
Question: What percentage of people can lose weight after surgery and keep it off long-term?

Answer:

About 75% of those who undergo bariatric surgery can successfully lose weight and keep it off long-term.
Question: Is long-term follow-up required?

Answer:

Yes. Long-term follow-up is required for life following bariatric surgery. We have found that long-term follow-up is key to lasting success.
Question: What is dumping syndrome?

Answer:

Dumping syndrome is actually an adrenaline rush caused by too many carbohydrates entering the intestine too quickly.

Continue Reading
Symptoms are palpitations, sweating and a weak-in-the-knees feeling. One-quarter of patients who receive a gastric bypass will experience this. This condition is unusual with the gastric sleeve but can occur specifically if a patient drinks fluid while eating.
Collapse Answer
Question: Do I have to take vitamins and minerals for life?

Answer:

After your surgery, you will be advised to take multivitamins and other supplements for the rest of your life. You will receive a handout with these requirements in your nutrition class. These requirements will also be reviewed with you during that class.
Question: Can I continue to exercise following weight-loss surgery?

Answer:

Absolutely! You can begin low-impact, non-strenuous exercise immediately following surgery. After recovering for about four weeks, you will be encouraged to incorporate unrestricted exercise into your routine.
Question: If I’m considering bariatric surgery, how do I get started?

Answer:

The first step is to click “Get Started Now” on this page to complete a short intake form and watch our online information session. Upon completion, you will then be asked to complete a short quiz. After completing all the necessary steps, a member of our team will contact you regarding the next steps to scheduling a one-on-one consultation with one of our surgeons.

Continue Reading

During this consultation, the surgeon will complete a pre-operative evaluation. Additional pre-operative consultations may be needed based on your individual needs. After completing all the required steps, surgery will be scheduled between six weeks and six months after your initial consultation, depending on your insurance requirements and individual needs.

Collapse Answer

Weight-Loss Surgery in Northwest Georgia

Feel Empowered to Transform Your Life

Discover the Bariatric Surgeon Who’s Right for You

Types of Bariatric Surgery Our Team Offers

Sleeve Gastrectomy

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery

Revisions and Conversions

Minimally Invasive Surgery

Bariatric Surgeons and Clinicians Helping You Feel Whole

J. Ryland Scott, MD, FACS

Peter Adams, MD

P. Bennett Brock Jr, MD

Sarah Hunt, MSN, RN, CCRN

Award-Winning Care That’s Rewarding for You

Fortune/Merative™ 100 Top Hospitals®

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Five-Star Quality Rating

Georgia Hospital Association Circle of Excellence for Patient Safety and Quality

Frequently Asked Questions About Bariatric Surgery

Question: How can bariatric surgery improve my overall health?

Question: Who qualifies for bariatric surgery?

Question: Which bariatric surgery procedure is right for me?

Question: What is the cost of bariatric surgery, and will my insurance cover it?

Question: What are some bariatric surgery risks?

Your Weight-Loss Journey Starts Here

Feel Empowered to Transform Your Life

Discover the Bariatric Surgeon Who’s Right for You

Types of Bariatric Surgery Our Team Offers

Sleeve Gastrectomy

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery

Revisions and Conversions

Minimally Invasive Surgery

Bariatric Surgeons and Clinicians Helping You Feel Whole

J. Ryland Scott, MD, FACS

Peter Adams, MD

P. Bennett Brock Jr, MD

Sarah Hunt, MSN, RN, CCRN

Award-Winning Care That’s Rewarding for You

Fortune/Merative™ 100 Top Hospitals®

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Five-Star Quality Rating

Georgia Hospital Association Circle of Excellence for Patient Safety and Quality

Frequently Asked Questions About Bariatric Surgery

Q:Question: How can bariatric surgery improve my overall health?

Q:Question: Who qualifies for bariatric surgery?

Q:Question: Which bariatric surgery procedure is right for me?

Q:Question: What is the cost of bariatric surgery, and will my insurance cover it?

Q:Question: What are some bariatric surgery risks?

Q:Question: How long do bariatric procedures take?

Q:Question: How rapid is weight loss after bariatric surgery?

Q:Question: How much excess skin will I have after surgery?

Q:Question: How do I get started, and what are the next steps?

Q:Question: Will my hunger go away after surgery?

Q:Question: What percentage of people can lose weight after surgery and keep it off long-term?

Q:Question: Is long-term follow-up required?

Q:Question: What is dumping syndrome?

Q:Question: Do I have to take vitamins and minerals for life?

Q:Question: Can I continue to exercise following weight-loss surgery?

Q:Question: If I’m considering bariatric surgery, how do I get started?

Your Weight-Loss Journey Starts Here

Question: How can bariatric surgery improve my overall health?

Question: Who qualifies for bariatric surgery?

Question: Which bariatric surgery procedure is right for me?

Question: What is the cost of bariatric surgery, and will my insurance cover it?

Question: What are some bariatric surgery risks?

Question: How long do bariatric procedures take?

Question: How rapid is weight loss after bariatric surgery?

Question: How much excess skin will I have after surgery?

Question: How do I get started, and what are the next steps?

Question: Will my hunger go away after surgery?

Question: What percentage of people can lose weight after surgery and keep it off long-term?

Question: Is long-term follow-up required?

Question: What is dumping syndrome?

Question: Do I have to take vitamins and minerals for life?

Question: Can I continue to exercise following weight-loss surgery?

Question: If I’m considering bariatric surgery, how do I get started?