At Surgical Associates, our commitment to patient-centered surgical care goes beyond the operating room. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped patients across Wisconsin regain control of their health through safe, effective, and compassionate surgical solutions. Bariatric surgery is one of the most transformative tools we offer—but its impact goes far beyond the number on a scale. When delivered by experienced, fellowship-trained surgeons in a supportive environment, bariatric surgery becomes a catalyst for better living, renewed energy, and long-term health.
Why Bariatric Surgery Is About More Than Weight Loss
Obesity is a chronic disease that affects nearly every system in the body. For many patients, it’s not just about extra weight—it’s about daily fatigue, joint pain, elevated blood pressure, insulin resistance, breathing problems, and the emotional toll of living in a body that doesn’t feel like home.
Bariatric surgery, when paired with ongoing medical support and lifestyle changes, can lead to improvements in:
- Type 2 diabetes management
- Cardiovascular health
- Sleep apnea symptoms
- Mobility and joint strain
- Reproductive health and fertility
- Mental health and self-image
In many cases, patients are able to reduce or even eliminate the need for medications related to blood pressure, blood sugar, or cholesterol. But perhaps just as meaningful are the everyday victories: walking upstairs without pain, playing with grandchildren, or fitting into clothes that haven’t zipped in years.
The Turning Point: When Diet and Exercise Aren’t Enough
Many people considering bariatric surgery have spent years—or even decades—trying to lose weight through traditional methods. They’ve counted calories, joined programs, followed meal plans, worked with personal trainers, and still seen the weight return. That’s because for individuals with severe obesity, the problem often goes deeper than willpower or habits.
Bariatric surgery changes how the body processes food and regulates hunger. It can reset the biological obstacles that make long-term weight loss nearly impossible for some people. When these physical changes are combined with guided support and education, patients finally gain the momentum needed for lasting change.
A Lifelong Journey—With a Team by Your Side
Choosing to pursue bariatric surgery is a big decision, and it doesn’t stop at the operating table. Success requires education, follow-through, and a care team that understands how to support you through setbacks, victories, and the transition to lifelong health. At Surgical Associates, we offer:
- Integrated care teams including dietitians, physical therapists, and behavioral health support
- Pre- and post-surgical education to set clear expectations
- Long-term follow-up and support groups so you’re never alone in your journey
- Surgeons with extensive experience in multiple bariatric procedures, including laparoscopic approaches for faster recovery
We treat bariatric surgery as the beginning of a new phase in your life—not a quick fix. Our goal is to help you achieve not only a healthier body but a better, fuller life.
When Is the Right Time to Consider Bariatric Surgery?
If you’ve been struggling with obesity and related health conditions, and diet and exercise haven’t led to lasting change, it may be time to explore surgical options. This doesn’t mean you’ve failed—it means you’re ready for a different approach, supported by medical science and a team who understands what you’re up against.
You may be a good candidate if:
- Your BMI is 35 or higher and you have weight-related health conditions
- You’re ready to make lasting dietary and lifestyle changes
- You’re seeking a path to better health—not just weight loss
For those who qualify, bariatric surgery can provide the reset your body needs to finally make sustainable progress.
Surgical Associates: A Trusted Partner in Transformation
As Wisconsin’s largest independent general and vascular surgical group, Surgical Associates brings together deep expertise, modern surgical innovation, and compassionate care. Our independence allows us to prioritize patient outcomes without unnecessary costs or corporate red tape. Our surgeons own the practice—and that means they’re personally invested in every patient’s success.
Whether you’re still gathering information or ready to take the next step, we’re here to listen, educate, and guide. Our bariatric program is designed to empower patients—not push procedures.
If you’re ready to reclaim your health and take the first step toward a more energized, confident life, we invite you to connect with us.
Your journey doesn’t have to be one more struggle. Let it be a turning point.


