Weight Loss Surgery &
Bariatric Care.
American Hospitals' Bariatric Center of Excellence offers life-changing weight loss procedures with a 98.7% patient satisfaction rate. Our fellowship-trained bariatric surgeons use minimally invasive techniques for faster recovery and lasting results.
98.7%
Patient Satisfaction
1,800+
Annual Procedures
12
Bariatric Surgeons
Advanced Weight Loss Procedures
Our bariatric surgeons offer the full spectrum of weight loss procedures — from the gold-standard gastric bypass to the reversible lap-band — tailored to your health profile and goals.
60–80% EWL
Excess Weight Loss
Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y)
Gastric bypass is the gold standard of bariatric surgery. The surgeon creates a small stomach pouch and reroutes the small intestine, limiting food intake and reducing calorie absorption. Patients typically lose 60–80% of excess body weight within 18 months. Highly effective for type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, and hypertension.
Recovery Time
3–5 weeks
Insurance
Covered with BMI criteria
50–70% EWL
Excess Weight Loss
Sleeve Gastrectomy
The sleeve gastrectomy removes approximately 80% of the stomach, creating a narrow sleeve-shaped tube. This reduces hunger hormones (ghrelin) and limits food capacity. It is the most commonly performed bariatric procedure in the U.S. — no intestinal rerouting, lower complication risk, and excellent long-term results.
Recovery Time
2–4 weeks
Insurance
Most major plans covered
40–55% EWL
Excess Weight Loss
Lap-Band (Adjustable Gastric Band)
The LAP-BAND is a silicone band placed around the upper stomach to create a small pouch, slowing food passage and promoting early satiety. It is fully reversible and adjustable — the band can be tightened or loosened via a port under the skin. Ideal for patients who prefer a less invasive, reversible option.
Recovery Time
1–2 weeks
Insurance
Varies by plan
Meet Your Bariatric Surgeons
Fellowship-trained bariatric surgeons with thousands of successful procedures and a commitment to long-term patient outcomes beyond the operating room.
Dr. Elena Vasquez, MD, FACS
Chief of Bariatric Surgery
19 years
Experience
3,600+
Procedures
Specialization
Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrectomy, Revisional Bariatrics
University of Miami · Cleveland Clinic Fellowship
Dr. James Okafor, MD, PhD
Minimally Invasive Bariatric Surgeon
15 years
Experience
2,400+
Procedures
Specialization
Sleeve Gastrectomy, Lap-Band, Robotic Bariatrics
Duke University · Johns Hopkins Fellowship
Dr. Priya Nair, MD
Bariatric & Metabolic Surgeon
12 years
Experience
1,900+
Procedures
Specialization
Gastric Bypass, Metabolic Surgery, Diabetes Reversal
Vanderbilt University · Mayo Clinic Fellowship
Real Patients, Real Results
Our patients don't just lose weight — they resolve chronic conditions, regain mobility, and reclaim their quality of life. These are their stories.
Maria S.
Age 42 · Gastric Bypass
Before
287 lbs
Lost
125 lbs
After
162 lbs
Health Improvements
“I got my life back. I can play with my grandchildren, travel, and do things I hadn't done in 20 years. Dr. Vasquez changed everything.”
Robert T.
Age 38 · Sleeve Gastrectomy
Before
312 lbs
Lost
114 lbs
After
198 lbs
Health Improvements
“The sleeve was the right choice for me. Recovery was faster than I expected and the results have been incredible. I'm off all my medications.”
Linda K.
Age 55 · Lap-Band
Before
241 lbs
Lost
67 lbs
After
174 lbs
Health Improvements
“I chose the lap-band because it's reversible. The gradual weight loss felt natural and sustainable. The team at American Hospitals supported me every step of the way.”
73%
Average excess weight lost
87%
Type 2 diabetes resolution rate
94%
Hypertension improvement
98.7%
Patient satisfaction score
Your Journey to
Lasting Change.
Bariatric surgery is the beginning of a transformation, not the end. Our dedicated care team, registered dietitians, and behavioral health specialists support you through every phase — from day one through year two and beyond.
1–2 Nts
Average hospital stay
2–3 Wks
Return to desk work
18 Mo
Peak weight loss window
5 Yrs
Long-term support program
Hospital Stay
Most bariatric procedures require only a 1–2 night hospital stay. You will begin a liquid diet immediately. Our nursing team monitors vitals, manages pain, and gets you walking within hours of surgery.
Liquid & Purée Phase
You transition through clear liquids, full liquids, and purée foods. Fatigue is normal. Most patients return home comfortably and can manage daily activities with minimal assistance by day 5.
Soft Foods & Light Activity
Soft foods are introduced. Energy levels begin to improve noticeably. Most desk-job patients return to work at 2–3 weeks. Light walking is encouraged — 20–30 minutes daily.
Regular Diet & Exercise
A regular, balanced diet is fully established. Structured exercise begins — walking, swimming, and light resistance training. Weight loss accelerates during this phase. Most patients see 30–40% of total weight loss by month 3.
Peak Weight Loss Phase
The most dramatic weight loss occurs between months 6 and 18. Chronic conditions like diabetes, sleep apnea, and hypertension often resolve completely. Nutritional follow-ups and support group participation are key to long-term success.
Bariatric Surgery
Insurance Guide.
Many insurance plans cover bariatric surgery when medically necessary — typically requiring a BMI of 40+ or 35+ with obesity-related conditions. Our financial counselors handle pre-authorization and maximize your benefits.
Medicare Coverage
Medicare covers gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy for patients with BMI ≥35 and at least one obesity-related condition.
Commercial Insurance
Most major plans cover bariatric surgery after a 3–6 month medically supervised weight loss program. We manage all documentation.
Financing Options
Zero-interest payment plans, medical financing, and income-based assistance available. No patient is turned away for financial reasons.
Coverage by Procedure
| Procedure | Medicare | Medicaid | Commercial | Self-Pay Est. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gastric Bypass (RYGB) | $18K–$28K | |||
| Sleeve Gastrectomy | $14K–$22K | |||
| Lap-Band Placement | $10K–$16K | |||
| Revisional Bariatrics | $20K–$35K | |||
| Nutritional Counseling | $150–$300/visit |
Speak with a Weight Loss Surgery Specialist
Complete the form below and a dedicated patient representative will call you back at your preferred time — no obligation, no wait.
Your Health Can't Wait.
Neither Can We.
Connect with an American Hospitals specialist today. Whether you need immediate emergency care or want to schedule a surgical consultation, we're here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.