A growing concern in Jacksonville, Florida and everywhere in the United States, obesity can cause or exacerbate health problems such as diabetes and high blood pressure. If you need obesity help and have a BMI greater than 40 (or greater than 35 but also have an obesity-related medical problem), you should consider bariatric surgery (i.e., weight loss surgery). Many patients elect to undergo gastric bypass surgery or Lap Band® surgery, but two other procedures are also available (vertical banded gastroplasty and biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch). Your surgeon will evaluate you and determine which procedure – gastric banding, bypass surgery, or another procedure – is best for your health status.

Weight loss surgery in Jacksonville, FL is a good option because of its proximity to many northern Florida health care facilities. If you elect to have a gastric band (Lap Band®), gastric bypass, or other surgery, you may go to the University of Florida Health Science Center Jacksonville, the Shands Jacksonville Medical Center, Memorial Hospital Jacksonville, or the Mayo Clinic Hospital in Jacksonville.

“Where Florida Begins,” Jacksonville has many great activities for those interested in going before their bariatric surgery. With the largest population in Florida, Jacksonville’s sunny skies and beaches attracted numerous tourists each year. After some beach time, go to the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, wander the Cummer Museum of Art and Galleries, or explore Riverwalk, a boardwalk with dining and entertainment opportunities. With some extra time, you could also take a paddle boat cruise on the St. Johns River.