It’s about being healthier, happier. Getting your life back. Setting your life in motion.

It’s also a commitment you make for the rest of your life. A program you live by. A tool, not a cure. Not the easy way out.

Surgical weight loss is not for everyone. But it is an option for an increasing number of Americans who are battling obesity.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the prevalence of obesity in 32 states was equal to or greater than 25% in 2008. The rate in Connecticut was about 21 percent. These individuals are often at greater risk of serious health conditions such as heart attack, stroke and diabetes.

Saint Mary’s surgical weight control team, led by two highly-skilled
surgeons from our community, is dedicated to the success of every patient. They recommend that all patients considering surgical weight loss attend one of the informational seminars held monthly at the hospital, to learn more about the procedures and support services such as behavioral and nutritional counseling.

Saint Mary’s has offered surgical weight loss, including minimally invasive options for gastric bypass surgery and the Lap-Band System®, for more than five years. Our team measures its success not in how much weight these patients lost, but how much their lives have changed.

“Because of this, I’m able to pursue my career,” said Joel Winter, 66, a musician who no longer needs medications to control his asthma, diabetes and high blood pressure.

“I really felt totally taken care of, and I’m very grateful. Everything is going just right.”