At the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center, we know that many factors can influence a person’s weight, from genetics and medications to access to healthy food. Being obese is a complex medical condition that requires individualized medical care.
We’ve been providing that care to patients since we performed our first weight loss surgeries more than 40 years ago. A recognized leader in bariatric surgery, Ohio State was the first in central Ohio to develop a comprehensive, multidisciplinary program using a team of experts in psychology, nutrition, exercise physiology and endocrinology to ensure your long-term success.
But we’re not only concerned with helping you lose weight. We also focus on your overall health to help lower your risk of associated medical conditions, from type 2 diabetes to sleep apnea.
In every stage of your journey to lose weight, we’re non-judgmental and compassionate, fully dedicated to your long-term success as a healthier, happier individual.
At Ohio State, you can be confident that you’re being cared for at the right place and by the right people.
Find out if bariatrics is the right weight loss option for you by viewing our informational video.
Bariatric surgery is a weight-loss technique that changes the anatomy of the gastrointestinal tract (the stomach and digestive system) and creates physiological changes in the body that alter energy balance and fat metabolism. In Ohio State’s Comprehensive Weight Management Program, bariatric surgery is combined with guidance on nutrition, exercise regimens and behavior changes tailored to each individual to help them reach long-term success.
Bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment for weight loss in people who have a BMI of 35 or above. Many people in this group may have temporary success with changes in diet and exercise and/or by using diet pills, but research shows that much of the weight lost is likely to return over the years.
Bariatrics has been shown to help improve or resolve many obesity-related medical conditions, such as Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. Often, those who reduce their weight to a healthier level are able to take fewer medications to treat their obesity-related conditions.
If you're interested in pursuing bariatric surgery as a weight loss tool, the first step is to watch our informational video. After viewing, download and complete the bariatric surgery application.
In the information session, you will learn:
Our free patient guide will walk you through all the steps in the surgical weight-loss journey at Ohio State and help you decide if bariatric surgery is right for you. Our guide for parents having bariatric surgery will provide valuable tips for talking about bariatric surgery and healthy lifestyles with kids.
Patient Guide (PDF) Program Steps (PDF) Application Form (PDF) Guide for parents having bariatric surgery (PDF)
A recent report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions—including obesity—may be at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19.
Experts at The Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center say that partnering with your pet when implementing healthy habits can be a great way to find motivation and make you both happier and healthier.
While being overweight is a precursor to obesity and, like obesity, can increase the risk of diabetes, heart attack and stroke, it’s also possible to be overweight and still healthy, especially if you’re free from chronic diseases like hypertension or diabetes.