Dr. William H. Johnson, a bariatric surgeon from Atlanta Bariatrics, discusses the permanent solution that weight loss surgery offers and the advantages of their state-of-the-art outpatient center during an interview with ATL Live, and insight into how modern weight loss surgery can provide a realistic chance to get out of that struggle.
Managing weight loss is a constant, unending struggle for millions of Americans. Many have tried dieting—a cycle Dr. Johnson describes as trying to 'eat a little bit of food and go pretend you're full'—which is rarely sustainable long-term.
Want to see the full interview? Watch it here:
Bariatric Surgery: A Realistic Chance for Change
Bariatric surgery (also called weight loss surgery) is designed to make a fundamental change in your body. It is for those who find weight loss to be a constant struggle and are at risk for, or already dealing with, serious health issues.
The Surgical Advantage:
Changes the Mechanism: The surgery makes it so you eat a very small amount of food but feel very full while doing it. This is a powerful, long-term tool against hunger that diets simply can't match.
The Patient Profile: This surgery is ideal for people whose weight is starting to cause health problems or for those 'barreling towards bad health.'
Preventative & Restorative: For some, the surgery is preventative, stopping the negative effects of weight (which 'ages you' and makes you 'feel terrible'). For others, it’s restorative, helping to get rid of existing health problems.
The Center of Excellence: Outpatient Surgery Benefits
Atlanta Bariatrics is distinguished by its state-of-the-art surgery center, which offers significant advantages over traditional hospital settings.
Opened in 2013, the center was the first in Georgia to be designated a Center of Excellence and was among the top 10 in the country.
Advantages of the Outpatient Surgery Center:
Quality and Outcomes: It offers the same high quality of surgery as a hospital but with better outcomes, lower costs, and less infections.
Convenience & Speed: The surgery is done laparoscopically (with tiny incisions) and the recovery is very fast. You are up walking an hour after surgery and often walking to your car to go home.
Comprehensive Options: Both main weight loss procedures—the Sleeve Gastrectomy and the Gastric Bypass—can be performed at the surgery center. (Note: Some complex patient cases may still require an overnight hospital stay, which is also an available option.)
The Path to Success: Education and Preparation
Dr. Johnson stresses that this is not a surgery you simply 'walk in, sign up, and get out.' It is a big step, and the team is committed to ensuring every patient is successful. This is why the preparation process is so extensive and resource-rich.
What Preparation Looks Like:
Education is Key: The process involves a lot of education to help you understand what you are getting into and the changes required for the next phase of your life.
Team of Experts: Every patient works with a team, including dietitians and a psychologist, to ensure your mind and body are ready.
Peer Support: Resources like support group meetings are available so you can hear directly from people who have been through the process, not just the medical team.
FAQs: Your Questions on Surgery and Success
If you're considering a permanent solution to your weight struggle, here are answers to key questions about the process at Atlanta Bariatrics:
Q: What is the main benefit of bariatric surgery compared to dieting? A: Dieting forces you to ignore hunger long-term, which is extremely difficult. Surgery creates a permanent physical change, making you full on a small amount of food, giving you a realistic chance to lose significant weight and keep it off.
Q: Can all types of bariatric surgery be done at the outpatient center? A: Yes, all the surgeries offered, including the Sleeve Gastrectomy and Gastric Bypass, can be done at the state-of-the-art outpatient surgery center. We evaluate each patient's weight and health issues to determine if an overnight stay at the hospital is necessary, but the surgery itself is available at the center.
Q: How fast is the recovery? A: Recovery is very fast. Surgeries are done laparoscopically (small incisions). Patients are up walking soon after surgery and often go home the same day. Most are back to work in about a week.
Q: Why is Atlanta Bariatrics' surgery center considered a Center of Excellence? A: The center was the first in Georgia to receive this designation, highlighting its commitment to the highest quality surgical standards. The center offers advantages like lower cost, better outcomes, and more convenience than a traditional hospital setting.
Q: How should I prepare for weight loss surgery? A: Preparation involves getting educated on the necessary changes. You will work with the Atlanta Bariatrics team, including dietitians and a psychologist, to get your mind and body ready. We provide resources, including support groups, to maximize your success.
For those who are struggling with weight and ready to break the cycle, Dr. Johnson and the Atlanta Bariatrics team are here to guide you to a life of better health. For more information, please visit AtlantaBariatrics.com.
