Blogs

Preparing for Bariatric Surgery

Considering weight loss surgery but don’t know where to start? Ian from the UT Health Tyler Bariatric Center gives an overview of the preparation process.

Bariatric surgery can help you regain your freedom and live a longer, healthier life. These procedures also can improve and in some cases resolve health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, joint pain and more.

Ian Graeter, LVN, is a nurse at the UT Health Tyler Bariatric Center. He helps patients with scheduling appointments, when they arrive for their appointments and... Read More »

What is BMI and how is it used?

BMI is a term that gets used quite a bit in discussions about weight, obesity and bariatric surgery. The term has been the source of a lot of confusion.

BMI is short for “Body Mass Index.” It is simply a number calculated from a person’s height and weight. The more a person weighs in relation to their height, the higher their BMl. The formula used to calculate BMI is weight divided by height squared, and it is usually calculated in kg/meter². Most times the units are not listed but assumed. For example... Read More »

Suzanne Strickland

Why did you decide to have bariatric surgery?

I made my decision to have bariatric surgery after being put on three different medications for weight-related health issues and gaining even more weight. I made this decision not because of vanity but because of health issues and daily fatigue.

What is the best feeling of accomplishment you have experienced since your surgery?

Since my surgery over 4... Read More »

Johnny Brown

Procedure Type: Gastric Bypass

Why did you decide to have bariatric surgery?

Before the surgery I had all types of medical problems. High blood pressure, sleep apnea, acid reflux and the list goes on. I had to do something to improve my health or the alternative was not a pleasant one to think about.

How much weight have you lost since the beginning of the process?... Read More »

Cathy Brown

Procedure Type: Lap Band Surgery

Procedure Date: July, 2018

Why did you decide to have bariatric surgery?

I wanted to be healthier and feel better. I tried every diet there was with some success, but would gain the weight back and then some. It became a never-ending battle to try and lose the weight.

How much weight have you lost since... Read More »

Michael Dickerson

Procedure Type: Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy

Procedure Date: November, 2013

Why did you decide to have bariatric surgery?

My health was getting worse due to being morbidly obese which affected my knees and heart. I tried other weight-loss methods but was not successful.

How much weight have you lost since the beginning of the process?... Read More »

Jared Butler

Procedure Type: Gastric Sleeve Procedure

Procedure Date: September, 2016

Why did you decide to have bariatric surgery?

I had trouble climbing stairs at work and stayed out of breath.

How much weight have you lost since the beginning of the process?

80 pounds.

What has been the hardest thing to... Read More »