Weight loss surgery at Las Palmas del Sol Bariatric Clinic
EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- Bariatric surgery is a transformative surgery for those dealing with obesity and the health complications associated with it. This is an option when all other traditional weight loss methods like diet and exercise don’t work.
The gastric sleeve and gastric bypass, two types of bariatric surgery, are the most common procedures done in the United States. Dr. Jorge Acosta, medical director of Las Palmas del Sol Bariatric Center, told ABC-7 these are minimally invasive surgeries, performed through small incisions in the abdomen. He says these surgeries have a rapid recovery and offer significant health improvements.
Bariatric surgery can help by treating and preventing diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.
The surgery is an entire process that involves psychologists and dietitians to support patients throughout their entire weight loss journey. "Very likely with surgery, you're going to eat a small portion and you're going to get full. Maybe you're not going to be as hungry as you were before," says Dr. Acosta, “As long as the patient is with the program, they're doing things correctly. This surgery, this tool will help them lifelong."
Christine de Jesus, a patient at Del Sol Medical Center, shares her journey with ABC-7. De Jesus says she started struggling with high blood pressure and unsuccessful weight loss attempts. Dr. Acosta suggested the gastric sleeve as a solution. After surgery, De Jesus says she experienced rapid weight loss and was completely of her blood pressure medication just weeks after.
For those considering bariatric surgery, a consultation with a doctor is necessary to determine eligibility and to discuss treatment plans. Most insurance carriers, like medicare and medicaid, cover bariatric surgery as long as requirements are met. However, for private insurance it will depend on if the employer chooses weight loss surgery as part of benefits.
