Bariatric Surgery

At the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center, we know that many factors can influence a person’s weight, from genetics and medications to access to healthy food. Living with obesity is a complex medical condition that requires individualized medical care.

We’ve been providing personalized care since we performed our first weight loss surgeries more than 40 years ago. A recognized leader in bariatric procedures, both surgical and nonsurgical, Ohio State was the first in central Ohio to develop a multidisciplinary program using a team of experts in surgery, gastroenterology, psychology, nutrition, exercise physiology and endocrinology to ensure your long-term success. And because we offer such comprehensive weight loss options, you can find the solutions and the support you need to be successful.

But we’re not only concerned with helping you lose weight. We also focus on your overall health to help lower your risk of associated medical conditions, from type 2 diabetes to sleep apnea.

In every stage of your journey to lose weight, we’re nonjudgmental and compassionate, fully dedicated to your long-term success as a healthier, happier individual.

Why choose Ohio State for weight loss

• As one of the busiest academic programs in the country, we have the experience and expertise to provide you with the highest level of care.
• We’ve performed more weight loss surgeries than any other program in central Ohio, and we’re also the only health care center in central Ohio (and one of only two in the entire state) that offers nonsurgical endobariatric procedures.
• Of the nearly 600 bariatric surgeries we perform each year, 95% are minimally invasive.
• Our expertise has made us the referral center for bariatrics for people with complex medical and surgical conditions and surgical complications.
• Ohio State was one of the first to be recognized as a Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery.
• We have a dedicated bariatric surgical floor for postsurgical care, with private rooms and a staff trained in providing dignified, sensitive care to those undergoing this life-changing surgery.
• We provide nonsurgical endobariatric services at convenient locations on an outpatient basis.

At Ohio State, you can be confident that you’re being cared for at the right place and by the right people.

What is Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric surgery is a weight-loss technique that changes the anatomy of the gastrointestinal tract (the stomach and digestive system) and creates physiological changes in the body that alter energy balance and fat metabolism. In Ohio State’s Comprehensive Weight Management Program, bariatric surgery is combined with guidance on nutrition, exercise regimens and behavior changes tailored to each individual to help them reach long-term success.

Why bariatric surgery might be right for you

Bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment for weight loss in people who have a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or above. Many people in this group may have temporary success with changes in diet and exercise and/or by using diet pills, but research shows that much of the weight lost is likely to return over the years.

Bariatric surgery has been shown to help improve or resolve many obesity-related medical conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. Often, those who reduce their weight to a healthier level are able to take fewer medications to treat their obesity-related conditions.

Find out if bariatric surgery is the right weight loss option for you by viewing our informational video below.