Rhode Island Adolescent Bariatric Surgery

There are two procedures commonly performed for teenagers: the sleeve and the gastric bypass. Both are done by minimally invasive procedures. The incisions are small, scarring is limited, and the healing time is relatively fast.

Both operations reduce the size of your stomach and limit the amount that you can eat. Gastric bypass also affects the way you absorb food. A conversation with your doctor will help to determine the best surgical approach for you. Learn more about the different types of bariatric surgery.

If you have not been able to lose weight by other methods, adolescent bariatric surgery might be an option for you if:

• You are between 15 and 18 years of age with a body mass index (BMI) over 40 and are experiencing problems with your health due to your weight (such as diabetes, sleep apnea, or arthritis).
• You are willing to make a lifelong commitment to a healthy lifestyle.
• You understand the risks and benefits of surgery for weight loss.

The sleeve and the bypass surgeries are usually performed with just 5 or 6 small incisions. This approach minimizes scarring and helps with pain after surgery.

No operation is foolproof. If you eat the wrong foods, or eat too often or too much, you will regain weight. The operation is a "tool" to help you lose weight and keep it off. Our preoperative program will help you learn how to use this tool effectively.

All participants must be in the program for at least 6 months prior to being considered for surgery. During this time, you will work with our dieticians and doctors to learn about your "tool" (the operation) and how to use it best.

We will also make sure you are medically prepared for surgery. Some patients may need a longer time before surgery in order to properly prepare for the operation and the way their lives will change after surgery. The team is available to help guide you through this process.

After surgery, you will need to adhere to the eating and behavioral changes you developed during the preoperative process. By continuing to monitor your relationship with food, you will be able to use your "tool" (the operation) to achieve your weight loss goals.

Studies show there is a reduction in the risk of developing cardiovascular disease later in adulthood. Patients also reduce their risks of other health conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Many report a reduction in sleep apnea symptoms, as well as improved quality of life and mobility.

Dr. Elizabeth Renaud of Brown Surgical Associates discusses its adolescent bariatric surgery program:

Pediatric surgeon joins CBS’s The Rhode Show to discuss treatment options for adolescent obesity:

Meet Jenna - a local teen who benefitted from weight loss surgery performed by surgeons at Brown Surgical Associates. She spoke with Channel 10 about how bariatric surgery is helping her live a healthier life. More »