When you’ve tried to lose weight but the scale refuses to budge or you’re unable to keep weight off long term, it can feel defeating.
Obesity is a complex disease, and there is no one-size-fits-all treatment. What works for some won’t always work for others, which is why some people can’t lose weight with diet and exercise alone.
Weight-loss surgery, also called bariatric surgery, can help. Here are five things to know if you are considering weight-loss surgery:
There are specific requirements to be eligible for weight-loss surgery
You may qualify for bariatric surgery if you have a body mass index greater than 40 or a body mass index greater than 35 and other health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure or sleep apnea.
Weight loss isn’t the only benefit
In addition to weight loss, patients who undergo weight-loss surgery may also experience an array of health improvements, including improved heart health, reduced insulin resistance, better sleep quality and reduced joint pain.
“One of the best rewards is watching patients gain a better quality of life through this process,” says Tidelands Health bariatric surgeon Dr. Sara Shields Tarwater. “They feel confident in their body and are doing things to improve their health that they may have not been able to do before.”
Insurance coverage
Many insurance plans cover weight-loss surgery. Our team will verify your insurance coverage as you begin your weight-loss surgery journey.
Understand the risk and benefits
Like any surgical procedure, weight-loss surgery carries risks and potential complications.
“Most of the time, the risk of obesity far outweighs the risk of surgery,” says Dr. Shields Tarwater. “We will work closely with you to find the best approach given your unique needs and goals.”
Weight-loss surgery will change your relationship with food
Weight-loss surgery changes the way your body metabolizes food and the actions of hormones that signal hunger.
“You will not be hungry as often, and you will reach satiety faster,” says Dr. Shields Tarwater. “That’s why many patients find success with weight-loss surgery when other more conservative options have failed.”
You will need support
Weight-loss surgery isn’t just about physical transformation but also emotional and mental adjustments to improve overall health. Tidelands Health offers a comprehensive program with guidance from a team of specialists, including board-certified surgeons, a dietitian and behavioral health counselors who will be with you through every step of the process – before, during and after surgery.
Weight-loss surgery can be a life-changing decision for individuals struggling with obesity. Learn more at tidelandshealth.org or call 1-866-TIDELANDS.
Dr. Sara Shields Tarwater
Board-certified bariatric surgeon
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Bio
Dr. Sara Shields Tarwater provides surgical care and bariatric surgery including laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass, hernia repair and anti-reflux surgery.
Learn MoreMedical Education
Education
University of South Alabama
Residency
East Tennessee State University
Fellowship
University of Nebraska, MIS/Bariatrics
Awards
Board certification:
American Board of Surgery
Meet the Expert
Dr. Sara Shields Tarwater
Call to Schedule
Dr. Sara Shields Tarwater provides surgical care and bariatric surgery including laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass, hernia repair and anti-reflux surgery.