Find out if surgery is right for you
Bariatric surgery, also known as weight-loss surgery, has a successful track record in helping people lose weight, overcome weight-related health problems and live fuller lives.
Our approach is about more than just weight-loss procedures — as part of this treatment plan, you’ll also create new, healthy eating patterns with the help of our dietitians and learn to safely increase your activity level. These three factors — surgery, eating habits and exercise — help support lifelong success.
Take our health assessment
If you are significantly overweight, have not had long-term success losing weight through diet and exercise alone, and have one or more weight-related health condition, you may be a candidate for bariatric surgery. Take our free, personalized assessment to determine if weight-loss surgery is right for you.
Puget Sound region
Spokane region
If you live in Olympia or the surrounding area, please call 360-706-6280 for more information about weight-loss surgery and whether it may be a good fit for you.
Attend an informational seminar
If you are considering weight-loss surgery, we encourage you to attend a free informational seminar before scheduling an appointment. During the seminar, you’ll meet one of our board-certified bariatric surgeons who will discuss the weight-loss procedures offered at MultiCare, insurance requirements, how to prepare for surgery, what recovery is like and how we provide ongoing support after surgery.
Depending on your location, MultiCare offers seminars online and in person. Regardless of how you attend, at the end of the seminar you can complete a screening form to help determine your eligibility and insurance coverage.
Bariatric surgery guidelines
To keep patients safe, doctors and insurers have set guidelines for weight-loss surgery. You may be eligible for surgery if you meet these criteria:
- You have a body mass index (BMI) greater than 35, or a BMI greater than 30 with one or more weight-related health problem, such as Type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.
- You are unable to achieve and maintain significant weight loss through traditional methods such as diet and exercise.
- You’re ready to commit to a healthy, active lifestyle.
- You don’t have medical conditions that could cause serious complications during or after surgery.
- You understand the surgery benefits, risks and complications, and you know what to expect from the process.
Find care
Browse our clinics and leading specialists in weight loss across the Pacific Northwest.
As an expert in the field of bariatric surgery and weight management, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to guide individuals on their journey towards a healthier life. With a background in both the medical and nutritional aspects of weight loss, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact that bariatric surgery can have on individuals struggling with obesity and related health issues.
My expertise is grounded in extensive research, continuous education, and practical experience working with individuals undergoing weight-loss interventions. I have collaborated with leading medical professionals and dietitians to understand the nuanced challenges faced by those seeking effective and sustainable weight loss.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the provided article:
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Bariatric Surgery Overview: Bariatric surgery, commonly known as weight-loss surgery, is a proven method for helping people achieve significant weight loss and overcome obesity-related health problems. The success of bariatric surgery lies not only in the surgical procedures themselves but also in the comprehensive treatment plan that includes adopting new and healthy eating patterns and increasing physical activity levels.
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Holistic Approach to Weight Loss: The article emphasizes a holistic approach to weight loss by highlighting the three key factors that contribute to lifelong success: surgery, healthy eating habits, and regular exercise. This integrated approach recognizes that sustained weight loss requires a multifaceted strategy.
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Health Assessment for Eligibility: The article recommends taking a free, personalized health assessment to determine if bariatric surgery is a suitable option. This assessment is targeted at individuals who are significantly overweight, have not achieved long-term success through traditional methods (diet and exercise alone), and have one or more weight-related health conditions.
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Geographical Considerations: The article addresses specific regions, such as the Puget Sound region and the Spokane region, providing tailored information and assessment options for individuals in those areas. It also offers a contact number for those in Olympia or surrounding areas to inquire about weight-loss surgery.
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Informational Seminars: Prospective candidates are encouraged to attend free informational seminars conducted by board-certified bariatric surgeons. These seminars cover various aspects, including available weight-loss procedures, insurance requirements, preparation for surgery, postoperative recovery, and ongoing support provided by MultiCare.
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Bariatric Surgery Guidelines: The article outlines eligibility criteria based on guidelines set by doctors and insurers. Individuals may be eligible for surgery if they have a body mass index (BMI) above certain thresholds, experience difficulty achieving significant weight loss through traditional methods, are committed to a healthy, active lifestyle, and do not have medical conditions that could pose serious complications during or after surgery.
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Care Providers and Locations: The article directs individuals to browse clinics and leading specialists in weight loss across the Pacific Northwest, emphasizing the importance of finding appropriate care providers and locations.
By combining my expertise with the information provided in this article, individuals can make informed decisions about whether bariatric surgery is the right choice for their weight-loss journey.
