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Let’s Talk About Bariatric Surgery: More Than Just Weight Loss

Written by: Lauren Strait

Did you know that obesity rates in the U.S. have skyrocketed from just 5% in the 1960s to over 45% today? It’s a staggering jump, and with it comes the need for better awareness about treatment options. On a recent episode of Health Futures with Bob Roth, Dr. David Podkameni, MD, FACS, FASMBS, Medical Director of Bariatrics at Banner Gateway Medical Center, shared some eye-opening insights about bariatric surgery and its role in treating obesity.

For the full episode, CLICK HERE.

You can also find this on any of the following podcasts:

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It’s Not Just About Surgery

When people hear “bariatric surgery,” they often think it’s just about shrinking the stomach. But Dr. Podkameni made it clear—it’s so much more than that. Bariatric surgery is part of a full, supportive approach to better health. Here’s what the process involves:

  • A detailed evaluation to see if surgery is the right fit for you
  • Support from a dedicated team including dietitians and psychologists
  • Access to ongoing support groups
  • Five years of follow-up care and monitoring

It’s all about setting patients up for long-term success, not just a quick fix.

The Different Types of Bariatric Surgery

Dr. Padkameni also broke down the three main types of bariatric surgery:

  • Sleeve Gastrectomy
  • Gastric Bypass
  • Duodenal Switch

And here’s something surprising—these procedures don’t just work by reducing how much you can eat. They actually change how your body produces gut hormones, which leads to metabolic changes that help with weight loss. It’s a total body shift, not just a smaller stomach.

Good News for Arizona Residents

If you’re in Arizona, here’s a win: bariatric surgery tends to be well-covered by insurance here, unlike in many other states. That matters because, despite its benefits, fewer than 1% of eligible patients worldwide actually get bariatric surgery. Increased coverage means more people can access life-changing care.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Obesity Treatment

Dr. Podkameni also touched on newer treatments like GLP-1 medications (think Ozempic). He doesn’t see these as competitors to surgery but rather complementary tools. Depending on the patient, these medications can be used before or after surgery to maximize results.

Obesity: A Disease, Not a Choice

One of the most powerful points Dr. Podkameni made was about changing the way we view obesity. Since 2013, the American Medical Association has recognized obesity as a disease, not just a lifestyle choice. This shift helps us understand that it often requires a medical approach, not just willpower, to manage it effectively.

If you’re curious about bariatric surgery or want to explore your options, you can reach Dr. Podkameni’s office at 480-543-6600. Taking that first step could be life-changing!

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Call (602) 264-8009 or contact us to learn more about home care services.

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