Manatee Healthcare System Surgical Weight-Loss Program

Thinking about bariatric surgery is a big step. Many people have struggled with weight loss for years, only to lose the weight, gain it back and start the cycle all over again. For these individuals, bariatric surgery may provide the tool to help with long-term weight loss.

What is Lap-Band® Bariatric Surgery?
The Manatee Healthcare System Surgical Weight-Loss Program helps bariatric patients develop a new lifestyle through Lap-Band® surgery. The gastric adjustable band procedure places an adjustable silicon band at the top of the existing stomach, creating a small pouch. The band limits food consumption without disrupting the normal digestive process.

Is it right for you?
To qualify for minimally-invasive Lap-Band surgery, you must ...

be approximately 100 lbs. overweight or have a body mass index (BMI) of more than 40 (you may also qualify if your BMI is between 35 and 40, if you have associated comorbid conditions such as cardiopulmonary problems, severe sleep apnea, heart disease or diabetes)
be between 18–63 years of age
have been unsuccessful with other weight-loss efforts, including medically-supervised diet plans
be willing to undergo preoperative testing
be willing to undergo psychological evaluation
attend a seminar and support group, and meet others who have had the Lap-Band surgical procedure
be willing to make lifestyle changes to ensure your success

What about Weight Loss?

Weight-loss surgery has given many patients a new lease on life. The amount of weight you lose will depend on your commitment to making healthy choices and some lifestyle changes. New eating habits, regular exercise and monitoring your weight loss are key. The Lap-Band is a tool and, if used properly, many patients can expect to lose up to 70 percent of their excess weight!

Additionally, medical problems related to obesity can improve as weight loss occurs. In fact, many patients find they can reduce or eliminate many of their medications, and that sleep apnea or back pain improves after Lap-Band surgery. Most patients develop increased self-esteem and confidence and an improvement in their overall quality of life.

Are There Risks and Side Effects?

Just as with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks with weight-loss surgery. The Lap-Band surgical procedure utilizes minimally-invasive techniques, so it has fewer risks than conventional surgery, and most patients experience a faster recovery time than in open procedures. Many patients who undergo Lap-Band surgery go home the same day, and most return to work within a week or less! The medical staff at the Manatee Healthcare System Surgical Weight-Loss Program are highly skilled and trained in the care of bariatric patients.

Location

The Manatee Healthcare System Surgical Weight-Loss Program is available at two locations:

Manatee Memorial Hospital
206 Second Street East
Bradenton, FL 34208

Lakewood Ranch Medical Center
8330 Lakewood Ranch Boulevard
Bradenton, FL 34202

Call (941) 745-7245 for more information or to discuss your situation.

Lap-Band Surgery FAQs

Got questions about Lap-Band surgery? Check our FAQs.

Still need answers? Call our program coordinator at (941) 745-7245.

How to Calculate Your
Body Mass Index (BMI)

To calculate your body mass index (BMI), multiply your current weight by 703. Divide that number by your height in inches. Now divide that number by your height in inches again. The result will be your BMI.

Body Mass Index (BMI)

Learn More at a FREE Seminar

Free seminars are held monthly

Whether it's to help you gather documentation, or educate you about your preoperative and postop diet, our team will work with you to help accomplish your weight-loss goal. With the Manatee Healthcare System Surgical Weight-Loss Program, you are not alone on the journey to a healthier life.

For more information, or to reserve your place at a free seminar, call the Manatee Healthcare System Surgical Weight-Loss Program at: (941) 745-7245.

Seminar Schedule

Lap-Band Support Group

A support group for Lap-Band patients meets monthly at Manatee Healthcare System. Led by a registered dietitian, the group is made up of a diverse group of patients who attend regularly. Some patients are a few weeks into their surgical recovery, others, a few years! Manatee Healthcare System Surgical Weight-Loss Program recommends participating in a support group to improve and help sustain long-term weight loss. For dates and times, call (941) 745-7245.

Lap-Band Surgery Support Group

Insurance Plans

The Manatee Healthcare System Surgical Weight-Loss Program accepts most insurance plans. Many insurance companies provide coverage for bariatric surgery and have established lists of criteria. Depending on your insurance plan, you may be responsible for a deductible or copayments. Call your insurance company for details. Call our program coordinator for information and guidelines at: (941) 745-7245.

If you have Medicare or Medicaid as your primary insurance, you are required to meet strict criteria to qualify for bariatric surgery and to have the procedure performed at a designated facility. The Manatee Healthcare System Surgical Weight-Loss Program does not currently accept Medicare or Medicaid for bariatric surgery.

Note: The information on this Web site is provided as general health guidelines and may not be applicable to your particular health condition. Your individual health status and any required medical treatments can only be properly addressed by a professional healthcare provider of your choice. Remember: There is no adequate substitution for a personal consultation with your physician. Neither Manatee Memorial Hospital, or any of their affiliates, nor any contributors shall have any liability for the content or any errors or omissions in the information provided by this Web site.

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