Available Surgery Options
What Weight Loss Surgery Option Is Right For You
This decision to choose which weight loss procedure that is right for you will require a discussion with your surgeon during the initial consultation. Howard University Center for Weight Loss Surgery (HUCWWLS). specializes in nearly all types of weight loss surgery. Please review the different types of surgery options below.
Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Gastric Sleeve Surgery, also known as vertical sleeve gastrectomy is a procedure that reduces the size (80%-90%) of your stomach, leaving only a small area that resembles the shape of a banana. The size of the new stomach pouch holds a considerably smaller volume than a normal stomach, significantly reducing the amount of food and calories that can be consumed.
Removing the majority of your stomach will affect your gut hormones. In addition, other factors such as gut bacteria may alter your appetite and nutrient metabolism. This surgery cannot be reversed because the majority of the stomach is permanently removed.
Revision Surgery
Revision Surgery is a surgical procedure reserved for patients who fall under the following conditions:
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The patient did not achieve adequate weight loss
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The patient had complications after surgery
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The patient regained a significant amount of weight after their initial weight loss procedure
Candidate selection is very important for a successful outcome. For most patients, weight regain can be attributed directly to unhealthy eating habits.
The risks of revision surgery is much higher and the amount of weight loss is generally less than the initial surgery procedure.
Gastric Bypass Surgery
Gastric Bypass Surgery, also known as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass involves a two-part process, which first divides your stomach by creating a small stomach pouch that can hold about one ounce of food. Next, a section of your small intestine is divided and connected to the small stomach pouch. The majority of the stomach and a short length of the small intestine are therefore bypassed. The gastric bypass facilitates weight loss by two mechanisms:
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The newly created stomach pouch will hold smaller meals, which translates into less calories consumed
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Because a short segment of intestine is bypassed there is less calorie and nutrient absorption. The rerouting of food impacts gut hormones that suppresses hunger
Robotic Surgery
Robotic Surgery is minimally invasive procedures performed by multiple robotic arms using tiny incisions. Robotic surgery allows doctors to perform bariatric surgery procedures with a maximum range of motion, better precision, control and flexibility than conventional techniques. Patients experience significantly less pain, less risk of infection, less scarring and a shorter recovery time. Speak with a surgeon about our robotic surgery options.
Check out our Robotic Surgery TV Segment with ABC7 reporter Victoria Sanchez.
Post Weight Loss Surgical Procedures
Post Weight Loss Surgery Procedures
After you've had weight loss surgery, some patients may experience loose or sagging skin. The degree of loose or sagging skin depends on a number of factors, including the amount of weight you lost, your age, your genetics and if you exercise.
Body contouring helps with skin removal after major weight loss. HUCWWLS offers patients a wide range of post-weight loss surgery options. Our Plastic Surgeons are experts in the following body contouring procedures:
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Breast Lift & Breast Reduction
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Panniculectomy & Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
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Mons Pubis Suctioning & Lift
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Upper Arm Reduction & Lift
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Thigh Reduction & Lift
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Liposuction
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Fat Transfer for Body Contouring and Brazilian Butt Lift
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Neck Lift & Suctioning
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Abdominal Wall Reconstruction for Hernias and Defects
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Face Lift
Non Surgical Weight Loss
Non-Surgical Weight Loss Options
There are a variety of different weight loss options for patients who do not want to go the surgery route. When weight loss surgery isn't the right fit for your body or your preferences, these options can offer an excellent opportunity to adjust your perspective, retrain your eating and exercise habits, and help you understand the basic requirements for a successful and lasting weight loss journey. HUCWWLS' non-surgical weight loss procedures caters to all patients, featuring a hands-on, personalized approach, ongoing visits to our center for individualized support and nutritional guidance. Please visit our Medical Weight Loss Program page for more information.