Started in 2002 and having performed over 3,500 surgeries to-date, a healthy weight is within your reach when you collaborate with the compassionate medical team at Cape Fear Valley Health.

What is Weight Loss Surgery?

Weight loss surgery, or bariatric surgery, is for patients who have exhausted all other weight loss options and those with health problems that are a direct result of carrying excess weight.

Bariatric surgery involves changes to the stomach or to the stomach and small bowel. By reducing your stomach size and the associated hormones linked to food intake and hunger, you are now more apt to lose a significant amount of weight. These procedures can be expected to result in a 40 to 70% loss of excess body weight that is sustained for years.

What Are the Steps to Weight Loss Surgery?

Most insurance companies and health systems require steps to be completed before bariatric surgery. At Cape Fear Valley Health, we walk alongside you and help you navigate this process. You can count on our bariatric team for personal support and expert guidance during your weight loss journey.

Your commitment is crucial to the program’s success. You can expect the process to take three to six months to complete, on average, prior to a medical procedure.

View this as an opportunity to complete all necessary medical clearances, develop new habits, prepare yourself mentally and establish a support system. Your preparation will ensure you achieve the most successful long-term outcome.

We’re here to support you as you work toward a healthier body.

Our Approach to Weight Loss Services

National and medical societies recognize obesity as a chronic disease. Weight gain is caused by multiple factors beyond exercise and diet. It’s a medical issue, not a lack of willpower.

When a patient with severe obesity has tried to treat this disease on their own, they often struggle. Some people have success, but it’s short-lived. They regain the weight and put on more pounds. Then they try again. The cycle of yo-yo dieting continues.

Ready to learn a more effective approach?

If you are more than 100 pounds overweight, or have a BMI over 35, bariatric surgery may be an option for you. Weight loss surgery doesn’t just treat morbid obesity. It also cuts the risk of life-threatening health conditions, such as:

  • Acid reflux
  • Cancer
  • Hypertension
  • Obstructive sleep apnea
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Type 2 diabetes

How your journey with us begins

At Cape Fear Valley Health, you can get the help you need to reach your long-term weight loss goals. The first step is to view our online educational seminar to completion. Register for the video here. Then, you’ll be contacted to schedule your first appointment. Allow two to four weeks if you prefer to meet with a specific surgeon. Otherwise, you can ask to be scheduled with the first appointment available.

How long does the process take?

The process may take three to six months, depending on several factors. Different insurance carriers have distinct mandatory requirements prior to surgical intervention.

Patients need to allow time between referrals and follow-up appointments with specialists. Allow one to two weeks following each subsequent specialist appointment. This timeline ensures surgeons have adequate time to receive and review the specialists’ documentation. 

How soon can you return to work?

Depending on the occupation, you may return to work two to three weeks after laparoscopic surgery and three to six weeks after open surgery. 

Your care team

You’ll have a team of multidisciplinary specialists working together to ensure you reach your healthy weight goals. Your care team may include:

  • Bariatric surgeons
  • Behavioral health specialists
  • Dietitians
  • Nurse practitioners
  • Nutritionists
  • Psychologists
  • Therapists

At Cape Fear Valley Health, we cover every aspect of your health, not just your numbers on a scale. This holistic approach means you’re more likely to live a longer, healthier life.

Why Choose Cape Fear Valley Health for Weight Loss Services?

  • Convenient, compassionate, advanced care

    Cape Fear Valley Health does an excellent job of caring for and treating our patients, beginning from the initial phone call. We demonstrate compassionate care at every step, from medical consultations to surgery to supportive services. At the core, our dedicated coordinators set us apart. They are passionate to ensure each patient is treated with kindness and respect. You receive support and encouragement throughout the path to a healthier you. You don’t need to travel far because we’re here for you in North Carolina.

  • Experienced surgeons and staff

    You can rely on the expertise of our providers to guide you before, during, and after your weight loss surgical procedure. Our bariatric care team is widely regarded as highly trained and experienced.

  • Bariatric Weight Loss Program Support Group

    Many studies show weight loss surgery patients often experience physical and psychosocial stressors. They may also have periods of difficulty adjusting to significant lifestyle changes. Belonging to a social group provides patients with support, ideas, skills, and nutritional information – all valuable components of complete care. Our program offers a way to stay connected with a community of fellow patients, healthcare professionals, and guest speakers monthly.

  • All supportive services in one place

    At Cape Fear Valley Health, we offer a variety of programs and support services under one health system. By participating in collaboration across healthcare providers, we consistently improve patient satisfaction and health outcomes.

Weight Loss Services
View All Doctors
Cape Fear Valley General Surgery - Village Surgical

Cape Fear Valley General Surgery - Village Surgical

1841 Quiet Cove
Fayetteville, NC 28304
United States

Get Directions
(910) 323-2626
Cape Fear Valley General Surgery - Ferncreek

Cape Fear Valley General Surgery - Ferncreek

4140 Ferncreek Drive
Suite 601
Fayetteville, NC 28314
United States

Get Directions
(910) 485-3880
Cape Fear Valley Medical Center
Open
24 Hours / 7 Days

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center

1638 Owen Drive
Fayetteville, NC 28304
United States

Get Directions
(910) 615-4000
View All Locations

Next Steps for Weight Loss

Please join us for an information session to learn how weight loss surgery may help you improve your health.
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Quick Links

Weight Loss Resources

Contact Our Support Group
Emotional and social support is an important part of complete weight loss care. We offer a monthly support group for Weight Loss Program patients to receive support ideas, skills, and information you they need.
Patient Handbook
Here you will find information for the time leading up to surgery and beyond.

Related Media

“The bariatric team was awesome. They walked me through every step of the way. The team was very supportive throughout the whole process. They let me know exactly what I needed to do with diet, exercise, and especially with the mental health part.” Tameka Griffin, bariatric surgery patient