Our Program & Mission
Minimally Invasive Surgeons of North County Bariatric Program is a comprehensive program providing you with personalized attention as you work toward your weight loss goal. You will work with a team of professionals throughout the program including our board certified surgeon, registered dietitian, and marriage and family counselor. Our comprehensive program will provide you with the appropriate pre- and post-op counseling and education, which will help lead to long lasting weight loss.
Understanding Bariatric Surgery
Gastric Bypass
A small pouch is created by separating a small section of the stomach away from the rest of the stomach. The intestine is then connected to the newly formed pouch, preventing food from entering the larger part of the stomach. Thus, after gastric bypass, food travels into the pouch and then directly into the intestine. Weight loss occurs due to the decreased capacity of the stomach to hold food as well as mild malabsorption of food.
Sleeve Gastrectomy
A large portion of the stomach is removed, creating a smaller stomach the size of a banana. There is no manipulation to the intestines during this procedure. Weight loss occurs because of the decreased capacity of the stomach to hold food.
Gastric Band
An inflatable adjustable silicone band is placed around the top of the stomach creating a small pouch. Only a small amount of food can be eaten in one sitting as food first enters the small pouch, which fills up quickly. The food slowly flows from the pouch into the larger stomach, then into the intestine. There is no manipulation of the intestines.
Am I a Candidate for Surgery?
You are a candidate if you have a:
- Body Mass Index (BMI*) of 40 or greater.
- BMI of 35-39.9 with obesity related health problems such as diabetes, hypertension, heart conditions, sleep apnea and/or arthritis.
- Inability to achieve a healthy weight loss sustained for a period of time with prior weight loss efforts.
- You are willing to make the lifestyle changes necessary to successfully lose weight following surgery.
A Message From Our Surgeon, Karen Hanna, MD
Obesity is a disease, a difficult to treat disease.
Here at MISNC we are dedicated to providing proven long term weight loss with a team approach that provides education, medical and mental health support, nutrition, and exercise. This may be through our medical or surgical weight loss program. All of this occurs in a caring and supportive climate that is sensitive to each individuals needs.