Hospital opens weight loss institute

Patients seeking surgical weight loss treatment for severe obesity and related health conditions now have access to a new program at Medical City Lewisville.

The hospital hosted a grand opening and ribbon-cutting for The Bariatric & Metabolic Institute Wednesday, November 15.

The Bariatric & Metabolic Institute at Medical City Lewisville offers compassionate and expert help for patients who have been unsuccessful in reaching weight loss goals through traditional techniques such as changing diet and exercise habits.

The team of specialists includes surgeons with dual board certifications in bariatric and trauma surgery, an experienced nurse practitioner and program coordinator, and a dedicated registered dietitian.

“We know that bariatric surgery is a major life decision that typically follows a long and difficult weight loss journey, which is why we’re excited for the launch of our new program,” said Sharn Barbarin, FACHE, CEO at Medical City Lewisville. “The new Bariatric & Metabolic Institute at Medical City Lewisville is fully equipped to help patients navigate the entire process with confidence, compassion and a comprehensive support system to help them navigate all aspects of their weight loss journey.”

The Bariatric & Metabolic Institute at Medical City Lewisville offers: Weight Loss Surgery, Laparoscopic Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass, Revisional Surgery (case-by-case basis); a Wellness Center with supervised medical weight loss program, weight counseling, medical management and pharmacologic support, nutritional counseling with a registered dietitian, gastric band adjustments, Lap Band adjustments; and a Bariatric support group and monthly informational seminars (available in English & Spanish).

Approximately 15.5 million Americans suffer from severe obesity, according to the National Institutes of Health. Obesity increases the risks of illness and death because of the diseases and conditions that are commonly associated with it, including type II diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disease, among other health risks.

Metabolic and bariatric surgical procedures have proven to be effective in the reduction of conditions related to severe obesity, according to hospital officials.