Find Local Bariatric Surgeons in Missouri

The country’s troubling obesity epidemic is reflected at the state level in place like Missouri.  Why have so many medical professionals and politicians taken an interest in the issue?  Numerous scientific studies have linked obesity and various comorbidities: diabetes, sleep apnea, hyperlipidemia, joint disease, and many others.  Over the long term, this means that many Americans face greater expenses for health care services as well as a lower quality of life.

With millions of Americans being obese, an increasing number of primary care physicians are beginning to suggest that their patients consider bariatric surgery after attempts at weight loss through diet and exercise have been unsuccessful.  One of the two most common procedures is gastric bypass; in this procedure, the surgeon creates a small pouch in the stomach by sealing the area of from the rest of the stomach.  Food is then directed through a bypass.  The other routinely performed type of surgery is the lap band.  Like gastric bypass, this procedure seals off part of the stomach but uses an adjustable gastric band; because the band can be tightened or loosened to allow food to pass to the intestines, the patient’s digestive system stays intact.  Other procedures are available as well.

Most weight loss surgery candidates have a Body Mass Index in excess of 40, but surgeons may opt to proceed with surgeon if the patient is experiencing negative symptoms of one or more other aforementioned health problems.  To arrange for a consultation, meet with a doctor at such Missouri hospitals as St. Joseph’s or Truman Medical Center.  You may also use the city links below.

Locate Gastric Surgeons and clinics in your area.