Weight-loss Surgery

Taking the first steps in weight loss surgery weight loss surgery video If you are reading this page, it probably means you or someone you care about is significantly overweight and has tried virtually every imaginable method to become healthier. Too often, despite years of diets, exercise programs, and pills, Americans find the extra pounds and associated illnesses continue to affect their lives. weight-loss surgery may be the answer.

Studies have shown that weight-loss surgery can lead to better health, which in turn leads to a higher quality of life and increased lifespan. So, please let us tell you about the options for weight-loss surgery and the benefits of UNC's highly personalized approach.

Is weight-loss surgery for me? What are the benefits of surgery?

If you've tried but can't lose the excess weight that's causing health problems, weight-loss surgery may be right for you. Find out if you are a CANDIDATE for weight-loss surgery.

Severe obesity can lead to many life-threatening health problems and a shorter life span. Learn about the BENEFITS of weight-loss surgery.
What procedures are available? What can I expect?

Once you and your doctor have determined that weight-loss surgery is right for you, UNC Health Care offers different PROCEDURES to fit your individual needs.

For many, surgery is an exciting end to a long wait. Learn more about:
» Taking the first steps
» Getting prepared
» The day of surgery
» Life after weight-loss surgery

Meet the Team:

Timothy Farrell, MD, FACS, Professor, Director, Minimally Invasive Surgery

Wayne Overby, MD, FACS, Assistant Professor

Tara Zychowicz, NP

Lisa Prestia, RN, Certified Bariatric Nurse, Clinical Program Director-OP, 919-966-8436

Susannah Southern, Clinical Dietitian

Maureen Dymek-Valentine, PhD, Psychologist.

 

Patient Stories:

Bill Biggers of Chapel Hill recounts how weight-loss surgery has given him a new lease on life. Phyllis Thomas, Pittsboro, North Carolina, describes how she came to undergo gastric-bypass weight-loss surgery and the health benefits it’s provided her.

 

A Change for the Better

"Burlington Times News"
After further consultation at UNC Hospitals, Sharon Catlett, 56, moved forward with her Gastric Bypass Surgery in August 2010.

 

Weight-loss Information Seminar:

Please join us for a monthly information session to learn how weight-loss surgeries can help you or someone you care about. In the sessions, members of UNC Health Care's team—one of the nation’s leading Bariatric groups—provide details on the options for weight-loss surgery and on the benefits of UNC's personalized approach.

Wellness Center -Located at Meadowmont, 100 Sprunt St. Chapel Hill, NC . Led by either Dr. Timothy Farrell or Dr. Wayne Overby. Seminars are held:

  • January 15, February 19th, March 19th, and April 9th from 6-7pm.
  • May - December 2013 will be held 1st Tuesday of the month from 6-7pm.
  • Please call to register at: 919-966-8436.

 

    Support Group - Held 2nd Wednesday of each month from 6-7pm at the new Aesthetic Center, 151 Old University Station Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27514. For questions, please call Bariatric Coordinator, Lisa Prestia, RN, CBN, at 919-966-8436.

    • Guest speaker for February: Chris Parker, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, General Psychotherapy, will be speaking "Surgical Journey" from her perspective.
    • March 13, 2013, Patient Led Group.
    • April 10, 2013, Patient Led Group.
    • May 15, 2013, Patient Let Group
    • June 12, 2013, Patient Led Group

        UNC bariatric surgery program receives two important distinctions:

        The program has been accredited as a Level 1b facility by the Bariatric Surgery Center Network (BSCN) Accreditation Program of the American College of Surgeons (ACS). In addition, the program was named a Blue Distinction Center for Bariatric Surgery by Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina. Read more