Free Informational Weight Loss Surgery Talk, July 20

Lose More than Just the Weight

Are you or your loved one having difficulty losing weight? Dr. Mark Colquitt with Foothills Weight Loss Specialists will provide a free informational session at Cumberland Medical Center on Dr. Mark ColquittThursday, July 20 at 5 p.m. for anyone who is interested in learning more about surgical weight loss. Guests can register to attend by calling (931) 459-4262.

Obesity has become a significant nation­al health issue. The Centers for Disease Control estimates that almost one out of three Americans are obese. According to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, more than 200,000 people have turned to bariatric (weight loss) surgery.

Morbid obesity, defined as having a BMI over 35 and being at risk for obesity-related health issues, is closely correlated with serious medical conditions including heart disease, high blood pressure and dia­betes.

The Fort Sanders’ accredited Center for Bariatric Surgery is the answer for many who battle obesity and its accompanying issues. Bariatric surgeons Mark Colquitt, MD and Jonathan Ray, MD have helped more than 2,200 patients lose close to 200,000 pounds through a combination of surgical, spiritual, and emotional support.

The atmosphere at the Center for Bar­iatric Surgery is one of support and encour­agement. Many of our staff members have undergone bariatric surgery and use their experience to help others be successful on their journey.

The surgeons offer two main options for their patients: laparoscopic gastric bypass (usually done as a robotic procedure), in which a smaller stomach pouch is created and a portion of the small intestine is re­routed to the pouch; and sleeve gastrecto­my, which removes a portion of the stomach and creates a narrower digestive tube. “The safety of bariatric surgery has improved greatly,” Dr. Colquitt said. “Today, the sur­gical risk of the procedure is comparable to having a gallbladder removed.” He said in most instances, the patient goes home within 24 hours after surgery.

“But in order for bariatric surgery to suc­ceed, people have to commit to making the lifestyle changes to support the choice,” Dr. Colquitt said. Dr. Ray added, “Our team will be there for the patient before and after the procedure. We can get them to the door, but they have to walk through it.

“Our goal is to promote health and wellness and sup­port an obesity-free lifestyle,” they say, “and to help our pa­tients become more productive – and fully engaged in life.”

For more information about the event, please call (931) 459-4262.

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