Bariatric Surgery
At MercyOne, we understand that taking the first step toward bariatric surgery is a significant decision in your weight loss journey. Choosing the right program can make all the difference, which is why our nationally accredited Bariatric Surgery program stands out. We provide you with the highest standards for patient safety and care, giving you confidence in the exceptional quality we provide.
Our team of highly trained and experienced providers specializes in delivering safe and effective surgical solutions, tailored to your unique needs and health goals. With a commitment to proven methods and compassionate care, we help you achieve lasting results that go beyond weight loss — empowering you to live your best life, healthier and more vibrant than ever before.
Is bariatric surgery right for me?
Bariatric Surgery is so much more than weight loss
Weight loss surgeries – also known as bariatric surgery – impact your digestive system and hormones to help you lose weight. Research shows bariatric surgery is among the best methods for long term, sustained weight loss because many obesity-related medical conditions can be eliminated or significantly improved including:
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure (Hypertension)
- Pulmonary disease
- Sleep apnea
- Fatty liver
It’s not just about losing weight – it’s about good health and living your best life.
Some insurance companies have reduced Body Mass Index (BMI) thresholds for patients of Asian descent. This change recognizes that health risks can occur at lower BMI levels in Asian populations. Check with your insurance company to see if you qualify.
Download our bariatric surgery guide Schedule a consultation
Types of procedures
Laparoscopic gastric bypass
Gastric bypass works in two ways: by restricting large amounts of food and through the malabsorption (difficulty absorbing) of nutrients from food.
Patients simply can't eat as much as they did before surgery, because this new, small pouch has a lessened capacity to hold food. Because most of the stomach and some of the small intestine has been bypassed, some of the nutrients and calories in your foods will not be absorbed. Additionally, the stomach can now only hold a few ounces of food at a time, causing significant weight loss.
Gastric sleeve
The sleeve gastrectomy, also known as a gastric sleeve procedure, works to help reduce the size of the stomach and reduce the hormones that cause you to feel hunger. An estimated 70-80% of the stomach is removed, and no intestines are bypassed. This procedure avoids complications such as dumping syndrome and has less risk of intestinal obstructions and vitamin or mineral deficiencies. – I hope this might help.
Sleeve gastrectomy is the most common procedure with less risk of potential complications.
Bariatric robotic surgery
Although it’s called “robotic surgery,” your surgeon operates the surgical system which features surgical arms with tiny wristed instruments that bend and rotate 360 degrees, far greater than the human hand. With robotic surgery, you may have less pain, scarring, blood loss and risk of infection.
Revision and conversion surgery
For post-surgery patients who may have experienced poor weight loss, weight regain or complications, they may be a candidate for revision or conversion surgery to help them meet their weight loss goals.
For a successful second weight loss surgery, patients will explore and address barriers that prevented success with their original weight loss surgery. Through these conversations, we can help patients manage their routine, strategies and nutrition plans for a new lifestyle and long-term success.
*Bariatric surgery procedures available at MercyOne are location specific. Ask your surgeon what treatment option is right for you.
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Bariatric surgery resources
Questions about what bariatric surgery is and whether you qualify? Check out our Frequently Asked Questions to learn some basics about bariatric surgery.
At MercyOne, we pride ourselves in delivering coordinated and personalized compassionate care and are committed to guiding you through every step of the process. Meet with other candidates and bariatric surgery patients.
Become inspired by people who are living their best lives after bariatric surgery.
Non-surgical weight loss options
We are committed to your success. Surgery is not always the right option for your care. We also offer non-surgical weight loss options that require a combination diet of high protein, low fat and low carbohydrates, along with consistent exercise, and if needed, weight loss medication.
Insurance information
It’s important to fully understand your insurance benefits before making your final decision about bariatric surgery. Insurance varies by carrier and requires preauthorization. Many insurance companies offer coverage because of the health benefits enjoyed by many patients, reducing their dependencies on medication and in some cases, eliminating chronic conditions. Self-pay is an option, and unless you are paying cash for this elective procedure, we will help you gain prior authorization from your insurance company before scheduling your surgery. Learn more
Related Locations
Specialty Clinic
MercyOne Cedar Falls Weight Loss Center & Bariatric Surgery
515 College Street
Suite 2800
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
Phone: 319-268-3990
Clinic
MercyOne Des Moines Bariatric Surgery
5901 Westown Parkway
Suite 240
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Phone: 515-358-9300
Clinic
MercyOne North Iowa Bariatric Surgery
910 N Eisenhower Ave
Mason City, IA 50401
Phone: 641-428-2400
