Ocala Health System

Are You a Good Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric surgery refers to a variety of surgeries that shrink the stomach, remove part of the stomach, or inhibit absorption of food to attain weight loss goals. Though bariatric surgery can be very effective, it may not be right for everyone. Here are a few indications that the procedure may be right for you:

• Your body mass index (BMI) is over 40
  Body mass index is a ratio of weight to height, and a score of 40 indicates severe obesity, which can put undue stress on the body and cause health problems.

• Your BMI is between 39 and 35, and you have weight-related health problems
  A BMI between 39 and 35 is qualified as obese, which still qualifies for bariatric surgery if a person is experiencing health problems like arthritis, type II diabetes, or sleep apnea. These problems have big effect on one’s life and health, and merit intervention.

• You have tried other methods of weight loss
  Though weight-loss surgery is very effective, it is not easy, and it requires significant recovery time. Because of the stress it puts on the body, one should only consider it if other methods of losing weight have not been successful.

• You are between 20 and 60 years old
  Bariatric surgery is designed only for adults who are in good health. Children should not have the procedure except in rare cases of very severe health problems, and older adults may have trouble recovering.

• You are committed to keeping the weight off
  Weight-loss surgery makes it easier to lose weight, but it still requires a commitment. Patients must eat well, exercise, and practice healthy habits.

If these points describe you, you could be a good candidate for bariatric surgery. Ocala Health System encourages traditional methods of weight loss, like diet and exercise. However, if you’ve tried everything else without success, it may be time to consider your bariatric options. Call (352) 401-1000 to schedule a consultation with one of our physicians.

Ocala Regional and West Marion Named Among Nation's 100 Top Hospitals® By Thomson Reuters

Thyroid: The Little Gland with Grand Plans…

The thyroid gland secretes hormones that regulate many body functions and metabolism. Too much, or too little hormone can cause disease, dysfunction, or even death. This lecture will provide an overview of the thyroid gland, its function, diseases and treatment options. Join us tomorrow from 10-11am at our Senior Wellness Community Center (9850 SW 84th Court, Suite 500, Ocala, Florida 34481). Presented by Leah Anne Sadler, ARNP with Family Care Specialists. Please call 1-800-530-1188 to reserve your seat.