Bariatric Surgery/SURGERY

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Question
HI I'M A 34 YEAR OLD WOMEN WHO WEIGHS 260 POUNDS AND FOR THE FIRST TIME I'M TERRIFIED ABOUT BEING OVER WEIGHT I'M REALLY SERIOUS ABOUT MY HEALTH NOW I'M SERIOUSLY THINKING ABOUT WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY WHAT IN YOUR OPINION IS THE SAFEST SURGERY TO HAVE AND WHICH ONE HAS THE LEAST SIDE AFFECTS

Answer
Anna,
I have to tell you up front that I can't give you one single answer about the best operation.  There are at least two good operations, and possibly three.  They all have advantages and disadvantages - the key thing is how you personally will live with each one.

My recommendation is to find the best surgical program in your area, meet the surgeon of your choice, and work with him or her to choose an operation that suits you best.

You can find a listing of excellent surgical programs at our national society website - www.asmbs.org.

Good luck!

Dr JP

Bariatric Surgery

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Volunteer


John Pilcher, MD

Expertise

I can answer medically oriented questions about bariatric surgery including: patient selection, preparation for surgery, differences between types of bariatric surgery, aftercare following bariatric surgery. I can answer detailed questions about gastric bypass, Lap-Band, gastric sleeve, and revision bariatric surgery. I am only somewhat familiar with Biliopancreatic diversion. I am not prepared to answer insurance or other financial questions related to bariatric surgery.

Experience

I have been a practicing bariatric surgeon since 1995. About 85% of my current practice consists of bariatric surgery, including all of the above procedures except biliopancreatic diversion. I am the senior surgeon of a 5-surgeon group. I am recognized among surgeons and other medical professionals as the most experienced bariatric surgeon in my region.

Organizations
Fellow of American College of Surgeons Member, American Society for Bariatric Surgery

Education/Credentials
BA in Biochemistry - University of Virginia Medical Degree - University of Virginia Surgical Residency - University of Virginia

Awards and Honors
Alpha Omega Alpha

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