Jersey Shore’s Bariatric Surgery Program helps obese people to lose weight

Mar 8 2013

For the obese community, the benefits of weight-loss surgery go beyond what the eye can see. Jersey Shore University Medical Center's Bariatric Surgery Program offers the education and tools necessary for people to make the life changing decision of losing weight.

Seth Kipnis, M.D., FACS, medical director of the Center for Weight-Loss Surgery at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, understands the difficult decision many people face when choosing weight loss surgery. In an effort to educate people about bariatric surgery, Dr. Kipnis holds free monthly seminars at Jersey Shore. "The obese population in New Jersey is growing. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 23.7% of adults in New Jersey were considered obese in 2011. Many people don't realize surgery to lose extra weight is most likely safer than carrying around the extra pounds associated with obesity. Educating the community about weight-loss surgery gives them the opportunity to fully consider every option possible for losing weight," explains Dr. Kipnis. The free educational seminars take place at Jersey Shore University Medical Center on the following dates: April 3, May 1 and June 5.

The Center for Weight-Loss Surgery at Jersey Shore offers innovative treatment options including the revolutionary LAP-BAND® System and Sleeve Gastrectomy. The LAP-BAND® System in comparison to other bariatric procedures is less invasive and provides patients with fewer risks and a faster recovery. Without having to cut, staple or remove any part of the stomach, the procedure is custom-tailored for the needs of each person.

Weight-loss surgery is associated with countless benefits. A study by the National Institutes of Health found that 10 to 15 years after having weight-loss surgery, obese patients were less likely to develop — and more likely to recover from — diabetes and other heart disease risk factors. Weight-loss surgery appears to improve the body's ability to control blood sugar levels, and may even reverse type 2 diabetes. By losing weight, obese individuals are at a lower risk for serious conditions such as heart disease and stroke.

The Center for Weight Loss' expert physicians and dedicated staff work endlessly to ensure the best results. From initial testing at the sleep center, to nutrition and psychological consultations, weight-loss surgery patients have access to a multidisciplinary team and the complete continuum of Meridian services.

Source: Jersey Shore University Medical Center