Weight management can be a challenging journey, but the good news is that advancements in both medical and surgical treatments offer more paths to success than ever before. We sat down with Dr. Christopher J. Hart, a leading Atlanta Bariatric Surgeon from Atlanta Bariatrics, to discuss the importance of personalized treatment, the role of new medications, and the advantages of their comprehensive approach right here in the Metro Atlanta area.
Want to learn more? Watch the full interview here:
The New Era of Medical Weight Loss: Are GLP-1 Medications Right for You?
Dr. Hart, who has been practicing medicine for over three decades, calls the new group of weight loss medications, including GLP-1 agonists like Semaglutide (known commercially as Ozempic and Wegovy) and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro), the 'best he’s seen.' However, he stresses that deciding on medication is not always straightforward—the key is customization.
'It's not always so straightforward... this new group of medications is the best I've seen and it's very promising.'
Key Considerations for Medical Weight Loss:
Customized Treatment is Essential: Atlanta Bariatrics offers multiple options to ensure the treatment plan is specific to each individual patient's needs and health history.
Who Might Not Benefit: Patients with severe heartburn, reflux, or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) should be cautious. These medications can sometimes exacerbate these conditions.
A Surgical Alternative for Reflux: In cases of severe GERD, there are specific minimally invasive surgical procedures that can not only help with weight loss but also effectively treat the reflux, offering a dual benefit.
Excellence in Bariatric Surgery in Atlanta: A Center of Distinction
For patients where a surgical approach is the best option, Dr. Hart and his team at Atlanta Bariatrics offer exceptional care, including a unique, patient-centric feature: a dedicated freestanding outpatient surgery center right in the Atlanta area.
Why Choose Atlanta Bariatrics for Surgery (GEO/SEO):
National Recognition: Opened in 2013, the center was the first in the country to be recognized as a Comprehensive Center of Excellence in Bariatric Surgery.
Outpatient Focus: Patients can often have their procedure and be back home the same day, offering convenience and a faster return to their normal life.
Hospital Affiliations: The practice also operates at two major hospitals in the Metro Atlanta area to accommodate all patient needs.
A Comprehensive Team Approach for Lasting Results
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, post-procedure care, and ongoing questions:
- Registered Dietitians (RDs): Providing nutritional guidance and constantly monitoring nutritional levels.
- Bariatric Coordinator: Helping patients navigate the beginning stages of their journey.
- Registered Nurses (RNs): Always available as a reliable point of contact for questions and concerns in between appointments.
When you walk through the door at Atlanta Bariatrics, you receive individualized attention that looks at your goals, your specific history, and which combination of medical and/or surgical treatments will be most effective for you.
Your Questions, Answered: Quick Facts from Atlanta Bariatrics
We understand you may have immediate questions as you research your options. Here are answers to common inquiries about Dr. Christopher J. Hart and the Atlanta Bariatrics program:
Q: Who is Dr. Christopher J. Hart? A: Dr. Christopher J. Hart is an experienced bariatric surgeon practicing in the Atlanta, GA area, and is part of the team at Atlanta Bariatrics.
Q: How does Atlanta Bariatrics determine the best weight loss treatment? A: Atlanta Bariatrics uses a customized approach, sitting down with each patient to learn about their goals and history to determine whether medical weight loss options, surgical options, or a combination will be most effective.
Q: Are the new weight loss medications like Ozempic/Wegovy safe for everyone? A: These medications are very promising, but they may not be the best option for everyone. Patients with severe GERD (reflux or heartburn) are examples of those who might experience adverse side effects and could be better candidates for surgical options.
Q: Does Atlanta Bariatrics perform same-day weight loss surgery? A: Yes, the practice operates a freestanding outpatient surgery center in the Atlanta area, which allows many patients to have surgery and return home the same day.
Q: Is Atlanta Bariatrics a certified surgery center? A: Yes, Atlanta Bariatrics’ freestanding outpatient surgery center was the first in the country to be recognized as a Comprehensive Center of Excellence in Bariatric Surgery.
Weight management can be difficult for many reasons. We appreciate Dr. Hart's insights and commitment to personalized care. For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit AtlantaBariatrics.com.
