Proven Weight-Loss and Compassionate Support
At AdventHealth Port Charlotte, formerly ShorePoint Health Port Charlotte, we understand how challenging weight loss can be. We also know that it’s never too late to take control and change your life.
Our dedicated bariatric surgery program offers proven solutions and compassionate support when traditional options haven’t worked.
Our bariatric surgery and weight-loss program includes a highly trained team of professionals who will work closely with you and your primary care physician to create a personalized plan that promotes your physical and emotional well-being.
Of course, our support doesn’t end when your procedure does, and you’ll find peace of mind knowing that follow-up care is close to home. We offer education and support to encourage and empower you through every step of your journey.
We’re here to help you find the right weight-loss doctor or a location that’s convenient for you.
Comprehensive Weight-Loss Treatments
- Minimally Invasive Bariatric Surgery Procedures
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Weight-loss surgery can often be performed laparoscopically. In these procedures, several small incisions are made in the abdominal wall instead of one large incision, as with traditional surgery.
Because the procedure is less invasive, patients often experience less pain and a faster recovery.
Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
This procedure involves removing approximately 70% of the stomach, leaving a slender stomach “sleeve.” This new stomach has a total capacity of three to five ounces, meaning patients feel full or satisfied after eating only two to four ounces of food. This procedure permanently reduces the size of the stomach, limits the amount of food you can eat, and helps you feel full faster and longer.
Gastric Bypass
This procedure involves stapling an upper portion of the stomach to create a smaller stomach pouch. The surgeon then connects the pouch to a section of the lower intestine, bypassing most of the small intestine where calories and nutrients are absorbed. This surgery also causes changes in hormones that also work to promote a feeling of fullness.
- Revision and Conversion Surgery
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Patients may need revisions, corrections or conversions of their original operations for various reasons. We can evaluate your situation and recommend appropriate treatment.
Gastric Bypass Revision
If you had gastric bypass surgery and initially experienced weight loss but have begun to regain weight, there are other options for you to consider. The staff will review gastric bypass revision surgery with you.
Conversion Surgery
If your laparoscopic adjustable gastric band needs to be removed, weight regain is highly likely. After lap band removal, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is a surgical option for many patients who experienced problems with a gastric band or who did not reach their weight loss goals.
- Medical Weight Loss
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Our medical weight-loss program consists of four elements to create successful weight loss, including:
- Medical oversight like blood testing and screenings to assess your current health
- Nutritional guidance from a registered dietitian to help you understand how to lose weight and improve overall health
- Behavior counseling by a professional who helps manage your emotional needs and helps you through difficult times
- An exercise program with a fitness trainer to help you develop an exercise program for healthy, long-term lifestyle changes
Our Success Is Found in Their Results
Rebecca had been considering bariatric surgery for years. But after attending a seminar and feeling more comfortable about the procedure, she was ready to make the leap.
“I felt confident with the surgeon's knowledge . . . and was impressed that the program was so intensive,” Rebecca said. “I heard about the program through my interactions with the bariatric coordinator. She met with me several times and reassured me that this was a great option.”
Since the procedure, Rebecca has lost 80 pounds and feels transformed. She says her priorities and lifestyle have changed. She’s found support and friendship within the bariatric community.
“I am now able to shop in regular clothing stores, which feels amazing. People are always complimenting my weight loss and transformation,” Rebecca said. “My life no longer revolves around food. I fill each day with amazing friends and family.”
Jennifer first learned about the bariatric program at AdventHealth Port Charlotte through her new hire orientation at the hospital.
“For 10 years I tried every diet and exercise program known to man,” Jennifer said. “I would lose weight, but then I would regain what I lost plus some. My body was always aching; I began to have continual back pain and developed plantar fasciitis.”
But the more she learned about the process, the more it seemed like it could help her situation. Working side by side with her future surgeon in the operating room and in endoscopy helped her to be even more confident in his experience.
“I had firsthand knowledge of what a great surgeon he was,” she said.
Since her weight-loss surgery, Jennifer is down 117 pounds and has found other improvements in her life, saying she feels exhilarated.
“I have more energy, and the continual back pain, body aches and plantar fasciitis are gone. I can do things I couldn’t do before,” Jennifer said. “I can ride roller coasters now, climb 219 stairs to the top of a lighthouse. I feel like I genuinely enjoy life now.”
Karen is a single mom who works evenings. She’d tried exercising and a variety of fad diets. But after a weigh-in that scared her, she made an appointment with her primary care provider. After he prescribed a drug that helped her lose some weight, the process was slow going, and she knew she couldn't take it forever.
At her next visit, her doctor suggested she investigate weight-loss surgery.
"I was reluctant at first," Karen said. "But I did my research and went in prepared to ask questions.”
By the end of her consultation with the surgeon and bariatric coordinator, Karen was so comfortable with them and their plan that she proudly exclaimed, “Let's go!”
Karen had a procedure called a sleeve gastrectomy, which is commonly referred to as the sleeve. This procedure involves the removal of approximately 80% of the stomach.
Karen said that now she looks forward to every day. “There were many things that my weight prevented me from doing. Now, each and every day, I can do a bit more. And that is the most rewarding,” she said.
When asked what one thing she would like others to know, Karen replied, "Surgery isn't an easy out for weight loss. You have to be determined and put in the work."
Find a Weight-Loss Clinic Near You
A healthier, happier you awaits. Our multidisciplinary weight-loss team will cheer you on at every step. With expertise and compassion, we’ll remain committed to you as you commit to meaningful change and lifelong wellness.
A Connected Network of Whole-Person Care
You’re a connected system: body, mind and spirit. And so are we. With a multidisciplinary approach to weight-loss care, we reach across specialties and locations to give you the support you need to thrive.
Count on us to listen to you, respect your time, compare notes and make care decisions that meet your unique needs and goals. No matter what’s on your chart or your mind, we’re here for you every step of the way.
We’re here to help you feel whole again — in body, mind and spirit.