What is Obesity?

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), an increase of 20% or more above your ideal body weight is the point at which excess weight becomes a health risk. Obesity becomes "morbid" when it reaches the point of significantly increasing the risk of one or more obesity-related health conditions or serious diseases (also known as co-morbidities) that result either in significant physical disability or even death. Source: NIH, Gastrointestinal Surgery for Severe Obesity, NIH Consensus Development Program. [Online] 25 March 1991.

Treating Obesity

At Mountain States Health Alliance, we recommend lifestyle changes and a wellness program as the first method of dealing with obesity. If clinically directed attempts at weight loss through such programs prove to have little success, those suffering from morbid obesity may then consider surgical options.

Medical Options

The program is supervised by a medical doctor who specializes in weight loss (bariatrician) and offers several options that are customized for the individual. Educational classes, support groups and long-term follow-up are offered to all patients.

To learn more, please attend a free informational session on the third Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. in the auditorium at Johnson City Medical Center or call us at 423-610-6268 or 423-431-1449.

Surgical Options

The options include both Laparoscopic Gastic Bypass and Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding. Our program includes assistance with insurance authorizaton, educational classes,
support groups and long-term follow-up.

Weight Loss Surgery Education Seminar