Many people who are seriously overweight have tried different diets, medications and professional weight-loss services for years without long-term success.

Fortunately weight-loss surgery at The Center for Surgical Weight Loss at Desert Springs Hospital Medical Center in Las Vegas can help seriously overweight people get the long-term weight loss they need without having to travel far from home.

What is weight-loss surgery?

Weight-loss surgery helps people lose weight by reducing the size of the stomach or bypassing part of the patient's intestines. After surgery, patients eat less food to feel full and satisfied.

There is more to gastric bypass surgery than the procedure itself. To be successful, patients must make major changes in their lifestyle and eating habits. For example, following surgery patients must:

• Restrict the amount and types of food they eat
• Avoid drinking liquids with meals
• Stick with a regular exercise program
• Take vitamin and mineral supplements

Is weight-loss surgery right for me?

Weight-loss surgery may be right for you if:

• You are between 18 and 65 years of age.
• Your are at least 80 pounds overweight, depending on other health conditions.
• Your Body Mass Index (BMI) is greater than 35.
• You have tried other weight-loss methods without success.
• You are medically stable and physically able to withstand surgery.
• You pass a psychological screening test that helps ensure you are able to comply with post-surgical behavior modifications.
• You complete all required pre-operative testing.