The desire to look and, most importantly, feel your best is a goal that's relevant any time of year. If you’ve been struggling with the cycle of weight loss and regain, or feel frustrated by fad diets, you are not alone.
Dr. Christopher J. Hart, a leading bariatric surgeon and winner of a 'Best in Georgia' award, was invited to ATL Live to discuss the unique, customized approach offered by Atlanta Bariatrics in the Metro Atlanta area.
Ready to see the full interview? Watch it here:
Rejecting the 'Hammer': A Tool for Every Goal
Dr. Hart and the team at Atlanta Bariatrics understand that for lasting success, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. As Dr. Hart puts it, they have a 'lot of tools' to help patients achieve better health, ensuring that the treatment plan is customized to the individual.
This approach is crucial, especially for patients who have experienced the frustration of 'yo-yo dieting'—losing and gaining weight repeatedly.
The Spectrum of Customized Options:
Medical Weight Loss: For patients who are, for example, 30 to 40 pounds overweight and need to reach a healthier spot, the newer weight loss medications may be the right answer.
Surgical Options: For others, minimally invasive surgery offers a proven path.
Combination Approach: Sometimes, the most effective plan involves a blend of both medical and surgical care, supported by expert guidance.
Minimally Invasive Surgery: Outpatient Options
Many people still have an outdated image of weight loss surgery, involving large incisions and long hospital stays. Dr. Hart, who has been practicing in Atlanta since 1997 and founded Atlanta Bariatrics in 2001, pioneered the shift toward modern, minimally invasive techniques.
The Evolution of Bariatric Surgery:
Advancements: Atlanta Bariatrics was on the forefront of laparoscopic surgery and robotic surgery, using tiny incisions.
Outpatient Comfort: Today, many surgical patients can go home the same day, offering a much faster recovery.
Variety of Procedures: Even within surgery, the approach is customized. Options include Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy, with the choice based on your goals and medical history.
The Team Approach: Personalized Care and Support
Dr. Hart emphasizes a fundamental principle: no treatment works in isolation. Success comes from a multidisciplinary team approach that supports the patient through every step of their weight loss journey. The team at Atlanta Bariatrics ensures patients have constant support for nutrition and post-procedure care.
To ensure success, every patient is supported by dedicated professionals:
Registered Dietitians (RDs): You are assigned your own personal RD who works with you. The focus is not on 'diet' (deprivation), but on creating healthy, sustainable eating habits.
Registered Nurses (RNs): Always available as a reliable contact point for questions and concerns between visits.
Bariatric Coordinator: Provides personal guidance and support throughout the process.
This entire team is dedicated to providing personalized care, turning decades of frustration into a focused plan for lasting health and vitality.
FAQs: Your First Step to a Healthier You
If you're reading this and feel ready to take the first step toward a new, healthier you, here is what you can expect from Atlanta Bariatrics:
Q: I want to give Atlanta Bariatrics a try. What is the first step?
A: The first thing you will notice is our team approach. After your initial call, you will typically come in for a comprehensive consultation with either Dr. Hart or Dr. Johnson. We will discuss your goals, comfort level, and medical history to create the best plan.
Q: What happens after the initial consultation?
A: Following your consultation, you will meet with one of our registered dietitians and our bariatric coordinator, who will guide you through the process. We will then proceed with any necessary medical testing to ensure the plan is appropriate for you before moving forward with medical or surgical treatment.
Q: Who is Dr. Christopher J. Hart?
A: Dr. Christopher J. Hart is an experienced, award-winning bariatric surgeon practicing in the Atlanta area. He has been helping patients lose weight for decades and is a pioneer in minimally invasive weight loss surgery techniques.
Q: What makes Atlanta Bariatrics unique compared to other programs?
A: We offer a wide variety of medical and surgical options, ensuring we can customize a plan specific to your unique health history and goals. We use a comprehensive team approach, providing support from in-house registered dietitians, registered nurses, and coordinators throughout your entire journey.
Q: Are all bariatric surgeries done in the hospital?
A: No. Many of our modern, minimally invasive surgical options (like gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy) are now done on an outpatient basis, meaning many patients can safely go home the same day.
For those who have struggled to achieve their goals, we are committed to guiding you toward a life of better health and renewed confidence. For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit AtlantaBariatrics.com.
