The American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery and the Surgical Review Corporation have designated WellStar Kennestone Hospital, in conjunction with Dr. Dennis Smith, Jr. of Advanced Obesity Surgery, as a Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence (BSCOE). Center of Excellence programs demonstrate excellent surgical outcomes, ongoing staff education, a complete compliment of consultants and a full line of equipment necessary for quality surgical care.
Bariatric surgery is a weight-loss option for people who are morbidly obese and have been unable to sustain lasting weight loss with conventional weight loss methods. The National Institute of Health 's criteria for weight-loss surgery includes patients with a body mass index, or BMI, greater than 40. Patients who have a BMI greater than 35 may also be surgical candidates if they require medical treatment for significant obesity-related medical problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, or disabling osteoarthritis.
The WellStar Bariatric Surgery Program is considered one of the top-tier programs in the country. The skill of board certified physicians and a comprehensive team approach to care contribute to the program's outstanding patient outcomes and safety records.
Support group meetings and free informational seminars are offered each month. Click on the calendar tab for upcoming dates. Support group meetings do not require a reservation; contact Sue Wood, RN,CBN at 404-617-9948 for more information about support groups. Information seminar attendance is based on space availability; contact Advanced Obesity Surgery at 770-919-7050 to reserve a date and time for an information seminar. For a brochure about our program please contact our Wellstar Referral Center at 770-956-STAR (7827).