Boone Hospital Center

Weight Loss Surgery

1701 E. Broadway, Suite 102 Columbia, MO 65201

573.815.6466 • boone.org/weightloss

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XX-119 • Rev 06/18

Journey to a healthier youBoone Weight Loss Surgery wants to reintroduce you to the healthy, energetic person inside you aching to lead an active life.

For years, Boone Hospital Center has helped people regain their health through weight loss surgery, combined with a program of healthy lifestyle changes covering nutrition and exercise. Our patients have seen amazing transformations in their body size, overall health, productivity, energy and self-image.

More than a slimmer body

Weight loss surgery can not only help you lose weight, it can also drastically improve related and costly health problems, and improve your quality of life.

People with obesity often develop related medical problems, called comorbidities, that pose significant health threats. Patients with obesity are more likely to have high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, sleep apnea, and back and joint pain.

Studies have shown that patients who received weight loss surgery have been able to resolve or improve symptoms of diabetes, high blood pressure and other comorbodities.

For our patients, weight loss surgery means more than having a slimmer body – it means the chance to lead a healthier, more productive life.

If you want to learn more about weight loss surgery, take the first step and register for a free informational weight loss surgery seminar. Register online at boone.org/weightloss or call 573.815.6466.

Meet your weight loss surgery team

Boone Hospital’s Weight Loss Surgery program provides a comprehensive approach to help you lose weight and lead a better, healthier life. Our patients benefit from the latest in laparoscopic weight loss surgery technology, quality care from an experienced surgeon, and support and knowledge from a dedicated team of health care professionals, including registered nurses, registered dietitians, physical therapists, a psychologist and others.

If you’re interested in or have questions about weight loss surgery, take the first step and register for a free, informational weight loss surgery seminar This seminar is required for all weight loss surgery patients and can help you decide if weight loss surgery is right for you.

For a schedule of upcoming seminars or to register, please visit boone.org/weightloss or call 573.815.6466.

Boone Hospital Center offers the following options for weight loss surgery. We can help you determine which option is best for you.

What is gastric banding surgery?Gastric banding surgery places a small silicone band around the upper portion of the stomach. This reduces the amount of food that can be consumed and increases feelings of satiety.

The surgery does not cut or staple the stomach and does not bypass a portion of the digestive system. This is an outpatient surgery – patients usually go home the same day and can often return to work in a week or less.

What is sleeve gastrectomy surgery?With the vertical sleeve gastrectomy, the stomach is restricted by stapling and dividing it vertically. More than 60 to 80% of the stomach is removed and will now only hold 1 to 5 ounces of food. This will help you feel less hungry and reduce the volume of food you can eat.

This surgery requires an inpatient stay and has a slightly longer recovery time than gastric banding.

What is gastric bypass surgery?Laporoscopic Roux-en-y gastic bypass surgery separates the stomach into two sections, using rows of titanium staples to surgically divide the stomach. The smaller upper segment continues to receive food while the larger lower segment no longer comes into contact with ingested food.

This surgery requires 5 to 6 small incisions and may result in a 1- or 2-night stay in the hospital.

How do I get started?If you’re interested in weight loss surgery, you’ll need to take these first steps:

1. Contact your insurance company and see if your plan has a benefit for weight loss surgery.

2. Attend a Boone Weight Loss Surgery seminar. This seminar is required for all weight loss surgery patients. You can register for a free informational seminar at boone.org/weightloss or by calling 573.815.6466.

3. Complete and return your application at the seminar.

4. Gather all weight loss records and documents. Many insurance companies require documentation of at least six continuous months participation in a physician-supervised weight loss program.

5. Begin making healthy food choices and lifestyle changes, such as starting an exercise plan. Any weight that you can lose before surgery is very important.

Meet ErinShelbina resident Erin Gill doesn’t remember a time she was not overweight. She had some success with various diets over the years, but had always gained the weight back – plus more.

In December 2012, at her highest weight, Erin sat down at her desk and the button popped off her pants. “That was my breaking point,” she says.

Erin had surgery at Boone Hospital in February 2013. Since then, she has lost 80 pounds and has kept it off. Erin enjoys having more energy to participate in family activities and participating in 5K races.

“It was the best decision I have ever made for my health,” Erin says. “With my family history of diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and cancer, I have drastically reduced my chances of developing health problems. I have a better life ahead for me and my family.”

Boone Hospital Center weight loss surgery patient Erin Gill before (left) and after (right) she successfully lost 80 pounds

Boone Hospital Center Weight Loss Surgery