At Surgical Associates, we have been advancing surgical care in Wisconsin for over 40 years. As the state’s largest independent general and vascular surgical group, our fellowship-trained surgeons bring a level of skill and dedication that has earned us the trust of patients across central and northern Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Bariatric surgery is one of the most transformative procedures we offer; not just for weight loss, but for improving overall health, mobility, and quality of life. By combining surgical expertise, personalized support, and a compassionate, patient-first approach, we help our patients achieve life-changing results.
Understanding Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery is a category of surgical procedures designed to help individuals with severe obesity lose weight and reduce or eliminate obesity-related health problems. While methods vary, the goal is the same: to create lasting changes in both physical health and lifestyle.
Unlike short-term diet programs, bariatric surgery addresses the underlying physiological and hormonal factors that make it difficult to maintain weight loss. For many, it’s not just about appearance—it’s about regaining control of their health and reducing risks for serious conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and sleep apnea.
When Weight Loss Becomes a Medical Necessity
Carrying excess weight can impact nearly every aspect of life—energy levels, mobility, joint health, self-esteem, and even life expectancy. For patients who meet certain criteria, bariatric surgery can be a powerful medical intervention.
Typical candidates may:
- Have a BMI over 35 with weight-related health concerns
- Be at least 100 pounds over their ideal weight
- Have conditions like diabetes, hypertension, GERD, or sleep apnea
- Be ready to commit to lifelong dietary and lifestyle changes
At Surgical Associates, our team carefully evaluates each patient to determine the safest and most effective surgical path forward.
The Health Benefits Go Beyond the Scale
While weight loss is the most visible change, the deeper benefits of bariatric surgery are medical and long-term. Many patients experience:
- Improved metabolic health and lower blood sugar levels
- Reduced or eliminated need for medications for chronic conditions
- Better mobility and joint relief from carrying less weight
- Improved sleep and breathing
- Enhanced mental well-being due to renewed physical confidence
Types of Bariatric Surgery We Offer
Our board-certified surgeons perform two leading bariatric procedures, each tailored to the patient’s unique needs:
- Gastric Bypass – Creates a smaller stomach pouch and reroutes part of the digestive tract, leading to reduced calorie absorption and altered hunger hormones.
- Sleeve Gastrectomy – Reduces the size of the stomach to limit food intake while positively impacting appetite regulation.
Both procedures are performed with a focus on minimally invasive techniques whenever possible, allowing for shorter hospital stays, smaller incisions, and faster recovery.
A Team Approach to Long-Term Success
At Surgical Associates, bariatric surgery is never just a procedure—it’s part of a comprehensive weight loss program. We provide:
- Pre-surgery evaluations, including dietitian and physical therapy visits
- Psychological support to prepare for life after surgery
- Post-surgical follow-ups to ensure safe, sustainable progress
- Access to support groups and long-term health monitoring
We understand that obesity is a complex disease, and we are committed to addressing both its physical and emotional aspects.
Your Partner in a Healthier Future
Choosing bariatric surgery is a deeply personal decision, and it’s important to have the right team guiding you. At Surgical Associates, you’re not just a patient—you’re part of our care family. Our independence as a surgical group allows us to focus solely on your best interests, using the most advanced techniques without unnecessary costs or delays.
If you are ready to take control of your health and explore whether bariatric surgery is right for you, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our team. Together, we can create a personalized plan for lasting health, energy, and confidence.
