Outpatient Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery is the only effective and long-lasting treatment for morbid obesity. It is recommended for patients who have had unsuccessful results with nonsurgical treatments such as medically supervised diets and exercise.
Bariatric Surgeon Dr. K. Robert Williams, at New Life Center for Bariatric Surgery now offers laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy at the Premier Surgical Surgery Center in Knoxville for appropriate patients. The lower cost of having a procedure performed at an outpatient center can benefit patients who pay for their bariatric surgery out of pocket.
What is Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy?
Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy involves surgically removing 70-80% of the stomach, resulting in a sleeve or banana-shaped tube. This operation generates weight loss by limiting the size of the stomach, which restricts the amount of food ingested. The procedure also prompts hormonal changes that help relieve conditions associated with obesity.
We spoke with Dr. WIlliams for more details about offering the Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy at the Premier Surgery Center.
Not everyone is a good candidate for outpatient bariatric surgery. Who is a candidate for a same-day Sleeve Gastrectomy?
“Generally patients who are lower risk for undergoing anesthesia qualify for this procedure. These patients are usually under 50 years old and have no major pulmonary or cardiac diseases,” explains Dr. Williams.
What are the benefits of having the Sleeve done on an outpatient basis at the Premier Surgery Center?
Dr. Williams says, “The biggest benefit is cost savings for self-pay patients. Patients who don’t have insurance or have a high deductible, can really benefit from having this procedure done at a surgery center.”
He adds, “Having the sleeve done at a surgery center is more efficient in terms of time. Our entire staff works in outpatient care, which allows our patients to have a hassle-free experience.”
Is there a pre-bariatric surgery process included?
All New Life bariatric patients are required to attend or watch an informational bariatric seminar prior to surgery. They also undergo nutritional and exercise education and must meet with their bariatric surgeon after surgery for scheduled checkups.
This also applies to patients who elect to have an outpatient bariatric surgery.
Dr. Williams says, “Our outpatient procedures involve all pre and post-op education that our inpatients do. It’s the exact same program and resources, just done in a different location without a hospital stay.”
He adds, “We do meet with patients post-surgery. This is something important for patients to know when considering having this procedure elsewhere. Our patients will get evaluated for deficiencies or other issues that arise after excessive weight loss.”
Bariatric Surgery for a New Life
Dr. K. Robert Williams and the team at New LIfe Center for Bariatric Surgery in Knoxville will guide you during every step of your weight loss surgery journey. Learn if you qualify for Bariatric Surgery by visiting our Am I a Candidate webpage or by calling our office at (865) 694-9676.