Services

Weight Loss Surgery

Our expertise in weight loss isn’t just life changing.

It’s life saving.

At Milton Hospital we understand the decision to have weight loss surgery is a crucial one, and for many, a life-saving one. That’s why we’re here with the expertise of a surgical team that offers personalized care and support throughout your weight loss journey.

Extreme obesity is a serious disease that can significantly interfere with such basic human functions as breathing, standing and walking. Left untreated, this condition can lead to a shorter life expectancy and a significant decline in the quality of life. Obesity causes many adverse health problems, including diabetes, heart complications, liver disorders and osteoarthritis. There are many treatment options, including a proven surgical procedure now available at Milton Hospital.

Expertise and less invasive approaches

Approved candidates for weight loss surgery at Milton Hospital benefit from the expertise of Charlene Chao, MD, a skilled physician who received her advanced medical training in weight loss surgical techniques at the New York Hospital, Queens. Dr. Chao performs a minimally invasive procedure using a laparoscope, a device that is passed through small incisions on the abdominal wall, providing access for its miniature camera and specifically designed surgical instruments. This method means less pain and smaller incisions than traditional surgery.

During the operation, an adjustable silicone band (LAP-BAND®) is placed around the upper part of the stomach to create a smaller pouch. The reduced stomach size limits the amount of food that can be consumed and slows digestion. By restricting the amount of food eaten at one time, hunger sensations are significantly reduced while the sensation of having a full stomach lasts for a longer period of time. An additional benefit of this procedure is that the size of the band can be adjusted without further surgery to control food intake as needed.

Do I qualify for weight loss surgery?

To qualify for weight loss surgery, candidates must have a body mass index (BMI) of at least 40, or a BMI of at least 30 with one or more obesity-related co-morbidities, which generally means being 100 pounds overweight for men and 80 pounds for women. Our team takes time to evaluate each patient individually to determine if the procedure is right for them. Ideal candidates for surgery should demonstrate a prior history of failed weight loss efforts through diet, exercise, lifestyle changes or medication intervention. Through counseling and the hospital’s educational programs, candidates will receive a full understanding of the possible risks, benefits and side effects of the procedure.

Information sessions to help you understand

Anyone interested in qualifying for surgery is required to attend our Weight Loss Surgery Information Session. Dr. Chao reviews the basics of weight loss surgery; how it works, problems that may arise and factors that contribute to its success. We also outline insurance requirements to determine financial assistance available to cover weight loss surgery and cover the necessary steps prior to scheduling a surgery.

Personalized care and multidisciplines make the difference

As a vital medical resource for our surrounding communities, we offer compassion, dignity and respect to every patient who comes to us for personalized care. From the pre-surgical evaluation to discharge and follow-up care, the multidisciplinary weight loss surgical team evaluates and treats each patient on an individualized basis. Our comfortable, community-centered environment offers patients a warm and familiar setting that’s close to home and near the welcomed support of family and friends. Choosing Milton Hospital for your weight loss surgery means having convenient access during your hospital stay, as well as quick access to all follow-up care necessary to ensure the long term weight loss success.