Frequently Asked Questions

Medical weight loss is a clinic-based program that helps you manage weight without surgery. It usually includes medical visits, nutrition and lifestyle support and, in some cases, weight loss medications.

Medical weight loss is a nonsurgical program supervised by healthcare professionals that may include nutrition guidance, physical activity goals, behavior changes and prescription medications. Bariatric surgery is a procedure that changes the digestive system to support weight loss and improve obesity-related health concerns. Your care team can help you decide whether to start with medical care, consider surgery or use both over time based on your health and weight loss history.

One is not ‘better’ than the other. Medical weight loss and bariatric surgery work in different ways and are used for different patients. Some people do well with a nonsurgical plan, while others benefit more from surgery or from using both approaches at different times.

No. GLP-1 medications and bariatric surgery are different treatment options. Some patients may do well with medication-based treatment, while others may be better candidates for surgery or a combined approach. Medications may be used before or after surgery as part of a long-term plan, while others use medication alone.

We may discuss GLP-1 and other weight loss medicines as part of your care plan if they are medically appropriate. Your care team will review your health and let you know whether medicine is an option for you.

You may be a candidate for bariatric surgery if you have obesity or serious weight-related health conditions and have not had lasting results with diet and exercise alone. Your care team will consider factors such as your BMI, medical history, current medications and prior weight loss attempts to help you understand whether surgery is a safe and appropriate option for you.

Tip: Generally, you may be a candidate if you are over the age of 18 with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or greater, or a BMI between 35 and 40 with co-morbidities such as diabetes, high blood pressure, obstructive sleep apnea, or congestive heart failure.

You do not need to be ready for surgery to contact our program. Many people reach out simply to learn more about their choices. During an evaluation, a provider reviews your health history, current challenges and goals, and then explains options such as medical weight loss care, weight loss medications and bariatric surgery. Together, you can decide whether to start with medical treatment, consider surgery now or later, or take time to think about what feels right for you.

There is no right or wrong surgery, but your surgeon will discuss your options with you. The decision should be based first on a clear understanding of the basics of each surgery, including risks and benefits; health conditions which may favor the benefits of one surgery vs. another, or conversely, increase the risks; an acknowledgement of current eating style as to which procedure is truly “best fit;" and personal preference. Our goal is to help you make the best informed decision possible for your circumstances and health challenges.

Yes. Medical weight loss is often used before surgery to help you start healthy habits, review medications and meet any pre-surgery requirements.

The length of a medical weight loss program can vary from person to person. Some people work with a team for a few months to meet a specific goal, while others stay connected for longer to help maintain weight loss and manage ongoing health needs. Your provider can give you a better idea of timing after your initial evaluation.