For more information on our programs and services, call 1-800-ALVARADO (258-2723).

• Advanced Spine Institute
• Alvarado Surgical Weight-Loss Program
  • About Alvarado's Program
  • Obesity Health Threats
  • Gastric Banding and Bypass Options
  • Revision Weight-Loss Procedures
  • Surgical Risks
  • Qualifying for Surgery
  • Getting Started
  • Support Groups and Educational Seminars
• Head and Neck/Ear, Nose and Throat
• San Diego Heart Institute
• San Diego Rehabilitation Institute
• Sexual Medicine Program
• Sleep Center

 

If you or someone you know is struggling with severe obesity (a BMI of 35 or more) and suffering from related health conditions, the Alvarado Surgical Weight-Loss Program can help. In February 2011, the FDA lowered the weight requirements for patients seeking Lap-Band surgery. Now, the gastric-banding device is approved for use on patients that are generally more than 50 pounds overweight, which is approximately 30% of the U.S. adult population. 

 

A patient with a body mass index of 30-40 with at least one life-threatening health condition is now eligible. Before the FDA approval, a acceptable patient needed to have a body mass index of 40 or above to be considered for the surgery.

 

At Alvarado Hospital, the following procedures are offered:

 

Gastric Banding: Gastric banding (also referred to as Lap-Band) is one of the least invasive treatments for morbid obesity. It induces weight loss by reducing the capacity of the stomach, which restricts the amount of food that can be comfortably consumed. During the procedure, surgeons use laparoscopic techniques (using small incisions and long-shafted instruments) to implant an inflatable silicone band into the patient’s abdomen. Like a wristwatch, the band is fastened around the upper stomach to create a new, tiny stomach pouch that limits and controls the amount of food you eat. It also creates a small outlet that slows the emptying process into the residual stomach and intestines. As a result, patients experience an earlier sensation of fullness, making it easier for patients to lose weight by consuming less food. To attend a free upcoming seminar on gastric banding, click here.

 

 

Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass Roux-en-Y: This minimally invasive surgical procedure is considered to be the most advanced and most successful procedure for weight-loss surgery. It is the most frequently performed U.S. weight-loss procedure. In this procedure, a small stomach pouch is created. The remainder of the stomach is not removed, but is completely divided from the smaller stomach pouch. The outlet from this newly formed stomach pouch is then connected directly to the jejunum, the first part of the small intestine where digestion takes place. To attend a free upcoming seminar on gastric bypass, click here.

 

For more information on revision surgical weight-loss procedures, click here.

 

 

Before you choose a surgical weight-loss program, be sure to consider the following:

 

 

 

Alvarado Hospital's Surgical Weight-Loss Program has been recognized by the American Society of Bariatric Surgery as a Center of Excellence. This designation is recognized by many insurance companies for weight-loss surgery as it meets the highest standards of quality and safety.

To earn a Center of Excellence designation, the Surgical Weight-Loss Program underwent a series of site inspections during which all aspects of the program’s surgical processes were closely examined and data on health outcomes was collected.

 

 

When choosing a bariatric surgeon, be sure to ask the following questions:

 

Alvarado’s Physician Referral Service can help you find a bariatric surgeon who meets your needs. To find a physician or for more information about the program, simply click on the Physician Finder, call 1-800-ALVARADO (1-800-258-2723), call locally at 619-229-3340 or contact us online.