Bariatric surgery (also known as weight loss surgery) is a procedure used to treat morbid obesity, which is generally defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more.

Lap banding is the bariatric surgery procedure performed at Long Prairie Memorial Hospital.

How does bariatric surgery work?
Bariatric surgery works by making the stomach smaller, which makes a person feel full sooner after eating. This, in turn, helps to control a person’s appetite, which can result in significant weight loss while maintaining adequate nutrition. Overall goals of bariatric surgery are to improve health, increase quality of life, build self-esteem and help patients lose weight.

Am I a candidate for bariatric surgery?
You will need to consult with your physician to determine whether you are a candidate for bariatric surgery. However, some general guidelines for bariatric surgery candidates include:

• a desire to make necessary changes in eating and healthy lifestyle activities
• a BMI of 40 (or more)
• or a BMI of 35 (or more) with serious health problems other weight-loss methods under professional supervision have not worked.

Does insurance cover bariatric surgery?
Many insurance plans do cover bariatric surgery, however, you should check with your insurance provider to determine your specific coverage.

What are the risks of bariatric surgery?
Some people who have bariatric surgery develop gallstones. Minor infections and lung congestion may occur as well. It is important that you discuss possible risks with your physician or surgeon.

Where can I get more information about bariatric surgery?
Each month Long Prairie Memorial Hospital provides a free Bariatric Surgery Informational Seminar. To learn more about the seminar, please call (320) 749-2607.

Bariatric Surgeon
At Long Prairie Memorial Hospital George Fortier IV, M.D., FACS from Upper Mississippi Surgical, performs bariatric surgery. Learn more about Dr. Fortier.

Number of surgeries performed
Since April 2005, more than 300 lap banding surgery procedures have been performed by Dr. George Fortier IV, with over 200 of them done at Long Prairie Memorial Hospital.

For questions related to bariatric surgery please call the Long Prairie Memorial Hospital Bariatric Coordinator at (320) 732-7003.

Helpful Resources
Upper Mississippi Surgical
ObesityHelp.com
American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
Lap-Band® System