At UTMB Health’s Bariatric Surgery Department, patients embark on a journey toward better health that goes beyond weight loss. Through a carefully tailored, patient-centered approach, the department offers a range of surgical options, addresses common misconceptions and provides ongoing support to ensure long-term success.

Surgical options: more than one path to weight loss

Bariatric surgery is not one-size-fits-all. UTMB Health’s Bariatric Surgery team offers several surgical procedures, each designed to cater to the unique needs and goals of the patient.

The four surgical options include:
  • Sleeve Gastrectomy: About 80% of the stomach is removed, limiting food intake and reducing hunger hormones, which impacts metabolism.
  • Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: A small stomach pouch is created and connected to a rerouted portion of the small intestine, reducing food intake and nutrient absorption.
  • Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch: This procedure creates a smaller stomach pouch and bypasses 75% of the small intestine, reducing calorie absorption and affecting hormones to control hunger, fullness and blood sugar.
  • Single Anastomosis Duodenal-Ileal Bypass with Sleeve Gastrectomy: The procedure starts with a sleeve gastrectomy to create a smaller stomach, then bypasses part of the small intestine by connecting it to a loop further along the digestive tract.
"Choosing the right bariatric procedure involves a variety of factors, including the amount of weight a patient needs to lose, any prior health concerns they may have, and ultimately, the patient’s own preferences," UTMB Family Nurse Practitioner Dr. Tamika Scott said.

Why patients might choose bariatric surgery

Patients who pursue bariatric surgery often face challenges that go beyond weight loss. Many struggle with conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension and sleep apnea—issues that can improve significantly with surgery.

"Bariatric surgery is not just about losing weight; it’s about improving overall health," Dr. Sarah Samreen, UTMB Health Director of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery said. "For many of our patients, it’s life saving."

Many of these patients have tried various methods, such as diet and exercise, but found no lasting results.

"Being overweight is a medical condition, and for some, it requires a medical intervention such as surgery to truly make a difference,” said Dr. Samreen, who also serves as an assistant professor with the UTMB Department of Surgery.

Common myths and misconceptions

Bariatric surgery is often misunderstood, with many perceiving it as a quick, easy fix.

"It’s not the lazy way out," Dr. Samreen said. "Bariatric surgery is a serious medical procedure that requires a long-term commitment to lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise."

Prior to surgery, patients undergo a thorough pre-operative assessment.

The pre-operative assessment can include:
  • Psychological evaluations
  • Lab work
  • Physical therapy
  • Cardiological evaluations
  • Upper GI scans and testing
  • Radiological evaluations
  • Sleep apnea testing
"We want to ensure our patients are physically and mentally prepared for this life-changing procedure," Dr. Scott said.

Additionally, patients meet with a dietitian before and after surgery to understand the significant nutritional changes they’ll need to make.

Importantly, bariatric surgery is not a one-time fix—it requires ongoing care and a lifelong commitment to health.

"It’s about a comprehensive approach to health," Dr. Samreen said. "We don’t just perform surgery and send patients on their way: we’re with them every step of the journey, providing support and guidance to ensure lasting success."

Another common misconception is that bariatric surgery is high-risk. However, thanks to advances in minimally invasive techniques, such as robotic surgery, the risks associated with bariatric procedures have significantly decreased.

"Bariatric surgery today is as safe as many routine procedures, such as gallbladder removals, which are one of the most commonly done surgeries to date,” Dr. Lauren McTaggart, UTMB Assistant Professor and Surgeon with the UTMB Department of Surgery said.

Patient testimony - Felicity Cunningham

UTMB’s Bariatric Surgery patient Felicity Cunningham reflected on her experience, which shows the transformative impact of bariatric surgery.

Initially referred by another doctor, Cunningham went to the clinic seeking help with weight loss, but surgery was not an option she was ready to pursue. However, after a consultation with Dr. Samreen, her perspective shifted.

“Dr. Samreen helped me realize that obesity is a medical condition, not a personal failing,” Cunningham said. “That understanding gave me the confidence to see surgery as a legitimate path to better health.”

Choosing the Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass procedure, Cunningham has not only lost significant weight but also experienced improvements in health conditions, such as blood sugar, blood pressure and fatty liver disease. More importantly, she’s reclaimed her mental and emotional well-being, shedding the stigma that often accompanies being overweight.

“For the first time in years, I feel like I’m not defined by my weight,” Cunningham said. “It’s been life changing to let go of the constant mental burden and focus on living a healthier, more confident life.”

Patient testimony - Timothy Bass

Timothy Bass, a UTMB Bariatric Surgery patient, shared his decision to pursue surgery after seeing friends with successful outcomes.

“Seeing friends and family get healthier made me realize it was time to take the step,” Bass said. “I chose the gastric sleeve because it felt like the best option for me—it’s less invasive than others.”

Bass has seen remarkable improvements in his health.

“I’ve gotten my youth back. My back and leg pain have disappeared, and my blood work is the best it’s ever been, all within just 12 months post-op,” Bass said.

He credited the UTMB team for his success, praising their constant support and his commitment to following their guidance.

“I followed everything—from liquid diets to post-op guidelines—and because of that, I’ve had no issues or complications. The UTMB staff is top-notch. Anytime I had questions, they answered quickly. There are no dumb questions.”

Bass encouraged others considering bariatric surgery, saying, “Don’t wait! I wish I’d done this years ago—it saved my life!”

The importance of ongoing support

Surgical success doesn’t stop in the operating room. After the procedure, patients are encouraged to attend regular follow-up appointments to track their progress and address any concerns. UTMB Health offers a comprehensive support system, including monthly support group meetings, one-on-one sessions with dietitians and access to a new social worker dedicated to helping patients navigate their emotional health throughout their weight loss journey.

"We offer not just surgery, but a support network," Dr. Samreen said. "Patients need compassion and understanding as they adjust to new ways of living. The support group is critical for building community and for keeping patients motivated and informed."

The department also emphasizes the importance of ongoing mental health support, noting that weight loss surgery is as much a psychological journey as it is a physical one.

Learn more

To schedule an appointment or learn more about the Bariatric Surgery Department, visit the bariatric surgery page on the UTMB Health website.

The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Chloe Chapel with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.