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Weight loss surgery

Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, is performed on patients with obesity. There are several types of bariatric procedures, but all focus on making modifications to the digestive system with the goal of significant weight loss.

Weight loss doctors in Ocala

Our accredited Weight Loss Surgery Center takes a comprehensive approach to managing obesity and the accompanying health-related issues.

Our experienced physicians, surgeons and specialist will create a customized plan to support your journey toward a healthier lifestyle. To take the first step on this journey, click the Get Started Button and complete the form so our program coordinator can connect with you to review next steps and answer your questions.

Get started with your weight loss journey

Complete this form so our program coordinator can review insurance information and answer your questions.

Complete this form so our program coordinator can review insurance information and answer your questions.

HCA Florida Healthcare weight loss surgery

Watch this informational video to learn more about what weight loss surgery is and how it can improve your overall health. You will learn about the causes and effects of obesity, types of surgeries and their benefits, as well as what you can expect before, during and after a procedure.

If you would like to speak with an experienced nurse to answer any questions you may have, you can call (844) 482-4823.

Our bariatric services

Our weight loss doctors offer multiple bariatric procedures using laparoscopy, a type of minimally invasive surgery.

Weight loss procedures we offer

Laparoscopic surgery uses a laparoscope, a small, slender fiber optic surgical tool with a light and tiny camera on the end.

Laparoscopic bariatric surgery means shorter healing times, reduced pain and less scarring.

Gastric bypass surgery

Our weight loss specialists were among the first in the country to offer this minimally invasive laparoscopic technique, which creates a smaller stomach pouch and bypasses the larger portion of the stomach and much of the small intestine.

Once you have lost 50 percent of your excess body weight and sustained that weight loss for five years, the procedure is deemed successful.

Sleeve gastrectomy

The sleeve gastrectomy is a procedure in which 80 percent of the stomach is removed, leaving a sleeve-shaped stomach. The new stomach holds about one-half to 1 cup of food at one time and involves stomach stapling which is not reversible.

Since the eliminates upper portion of the stomach is eliminated, which produces the hormones that stimulate hunger, the sensation of hunger is often decreased.

We recommend this type of surgery for morbidly obese patients with a BMI greater than 40 or a BMI between 35 to 40 with significant co-existing chronic conditions. Sleeve gastrectomy is performed laparoscopically and usually requires an overnight stay in the hospital.

On average, patients lose about 50 to 60 percent of their excess weight over two years with this procedure. However, individual weight loss results will vary based upon how well you follow the postoperative guidelines.

Are you a candidate for weight loss surgery?

Start your journey today by taking a free assessment.

Start your journey today by taking a free assessment.

More about weight loss surgery

If you're considering bariatric surgery, the best thing to do is talk to your doctor or one of our specialists. It's a very involved process that is personal to you. However, some of the common questions you may ask are answered below to help you get started.

What is bariatric surgery?

Bariatric surgery is an umbrella term for various weight loss surgical procedures. These procedures are not cosmetic and are only available to eligible candidates for bariatric surgery.


Who is eligible for weight loss surgery?

Bariatric surgery is an option if you:

  • Are 100 pounds or more over your healthy body weight
  • Have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or greater OR
  • Have a BMI of 35 to 39.9 with a diagnosed weight-related health problem, such as diabetes, high blood pressure or obstructive sleep apnea

Patients must also be willing to follow significant diet and lifestyle changes after bariatric surgery to ensure successful surgeries and long-term weight loss. You can discuss what to expect after your surgery with our surgeons.

Your BMI can reliably indicate how much body fat you have and is based on your weight and height. You can determine your BMI with a variety of online sources, including this BMI calculator from the CDC.

Patient Guide and Checklist


If you would like to learn more about weight loss surgery at HCA Florida Healthcare, please call us at (352) 291-6357.

Deaundre Guys Bariatric Surgery Journey

Learn more about Deaundre Guy's bariatric surgery experience with Ocala Hospital.

Our Weight loss surgery Locations

Oviedo Medical Center
8300 Red Bug Lake Rd
Oviedo, FL 32765
 (407) 890 - 2273

65.6 miles

Orange Park Hospital
2001 Kingsley Ave
Orange Park, FL 32073
 (904) 639 - 8500

72.5 miles

The Healthy Living Blog

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