2016

Are More People Choosing Bariatric Surgery?

December 7, 2016

Approximately one-third of Americans are considered obese, a number that has been increasing over time. One of the most effective treatments for severe obesity is bariatric surgery. As a result, many people assume that weight loss surgery must be growing in popularity as obesity rates climb. This, however, is not actually the case. In fact, fewer people are choosing to undergo weight loss surgery. The reasons why are complex, as our skilled bariatric surgeons explain: One of the biggest impediments to receiving bariatric surgery for most patients is cost. Many health insurance companies either partially cover or do not cover the cost of weight loss surgery. Those that do provide coverage for a procedure may have a difficult and convoluted approval process that can take years to navigate. While Griffin Bariatrics provides support to patients to help them manage these issues, many individuals are left understandably frustrated by the system. We make it a priority to help people negotiate insurance-related issues, and we also offer appealing financing terms for those who opt to pay out of pocket. Obesity is classified... Read More

Can Teens Have Bariatric Surgery?

November 17, 2016

The number of teenagers and young adults suffering from obesity has increased dramatically over the years. Weight loss surgery, however, remains an uncommon treatment for this age group, and Griffin Bariatrics does not currently offer surgery to patients under the age of 18. That said, our experienced bariatric surgeons explain when surgery may be a reasonable option, and when other methods should be explored: Bariatric surgery, including techniques like gastric banding, gastric sleeve, and gastric bypass, can achieve significant weight loss for the right candidates. However, there have been few studies performed on the long-term results of weight loss surgery for adolescents. Weight loss procedures require serious long-term lifestyle changes. If a teenager, or any obese patient, is unable to follow the strict dietary guidelines, bariatric surgery may not be the best approach. Additionally, patients, including teens and young adults, should exhaust all other reasonable weight loss options before considering bariatric surgery. At Griffin Bariatrics, we can help teens, young adults, and adults navigate weight loss challenges through our comprehensive support programs. Many of these groups are free or low-cost... Read More

What Is the Best Way to Treat Obesity?

October 20, 2016

Just as there are a multitude of causes of obesity, so too are there numerous ways to address this disease. At Griffin Bariatrics, our extensively trained weight loss surgeons offer the most advanced techniques available to help patients lose weight and improve their health with long-term results. We believe, and studies have shown, a multimodality approach to obesity treatment offers a better chance of losing weight and keeping it off. That is why we offer state-of-the-art bariatric procedures, including gastric sleeve surgery, gastric banding, and gastric bypass, as well as a comprehensive pre- and post-operative support system that includes fitness and nutrition programs. Part of what makes obesity a complicated disease to treat is the fact that this condition often has both genetic and lifestyle influences. As a result, a strict diet and exercise regimen is rarely effective alone. Additionally, many patients are able to lose weight initially, but find that, over time, some weight returns. With our On-Track Workshops, patients have access to counseling, support groups, cooking demonstrations, and exercise classes that can provide the help they need whenever... Read More

Is Obesity a Disease?

October 6, 2016

In 2013, the American Medical Association declared obesity to be a disease. In doing this, the AMA hoped, in part, to help people suffering from this concern achieve greater access to health care that can lead to significant weight loss and improved well-being. Current estimates suggest that approximately one third of Americans are obese. This condition is linked with a number of serious health problems, including heart disease and diabetes, and studies have shown that diet and exercise alone are often insufficient to combat the issue. Our experienced bariatric surgeons recognize that a multifaceted approach is necessary to address a disorder as complex as obesity. There are many causes of obesity, and for many people simply eating less and moving more is not enough to treat the condition. At Griffin Bariatrics, we recognize that long-term weight loss success requires a multimodality approach. At our hospital, we combine leading surgical techniques with comprehensive support, nutrition, and fitness programs to help patients shed weight, improve their health, and—most importantly—enjoy the process. Obesity is a disease, but it’s a treatable one. If you’re... Read More

The Importance of Support Following Weight Loss Surgery

August 30, 2016

It’s not uncommon to experience a variety of emotions following weight loss surgery, some of which may be conflicting. Excitement is of course normal, but feeling nervous or even a little bit fearful is also perfectly natural. What you shouldn’t worry about is completing this journey alone. At Griffin Bariatrics, our skilled medical team offers support at every stage of your experience, beginning well before you have the surgery and continuing throughout your life. We believe these services are crucial to optimizing your well-being and to achieving long-term success. Changing foundational elements of your lifestyle, such as how you think about food, isn’t something that can happen overnight. When you need advice on nutrition options, fitness programs, or personal concerns related to weight loss, we are here to help. We have support groups designed with your needs in mind. Counseling, exercises classes, and cooking demonstrations are all available through our On Track Program and On Track Workshops. Furthermore, we know sometimes the best resources are patients who have already been where you are. Our group therapy sessions offer you a... Read More