Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) offers one of the region’s most experienced bariatric surgery teams, delivering safe, effective solutions for adults and adolescents seeking long‑term weight loss. Our comprehensive approach focuses on proven surgical procedures designed to help you improve your health and quality of life.


NGMC’s Comprehensive Bariatric Surgery Program

Gastric Bypass

Gastric bypass is a minimally invasive surgical option that helps patients lose weight by both restricting stomach capacity and reducing calorie absorption. The procedure reroutes a portion of the small intestine, limiting how much food your body processes. It also produces hormonal changes that help control appetite and maintain a feeling of fullness longer.

Ideal for patients who:

  • Have a BMI of 40+, or
  • Have a BMI of 35+ with serious obesity‑related conditions (such as diabetes, sleep apnea, or heart disease).

Sleeve Gastrectomy (Gastric Sleeve)

Sleeve gastrectomy involves removing approximately two‑thirds of the stomach, leaving behind a narrow tube-like “sleeve.” This limits how much a patient can eat while still allowing normal digestion and nutrient absorption. The procedure also significantly reduces hunger hormones to support long‑term weight control.

Intragastric Balloon (Weight-Loss Balloon)

The intragastric balloon is a non‑surgical, temporary procedure ideal for patients who want significant weight loss without undergoing surgery. A soft balloon is placed in the stomach to occupy space and act as built‑in portion control. Patients typically report feeling full with less food and may lose up to three times more weight compared to diet and exercise alone.

Adolescent Weight-Loss Surgery (Ages 15+)

NGMC offers specialized bariatric options for adolescents struggling with obesity. Gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy are available for patients ages 15 and older who meet surgical criteria and are determined to be good candidates. These procedures are delivered in a dedicated bariatric unit with specially designed equipment.

Adolescent candidates undergo several months of preparation, including monthly check‑ins with a multidisciplinary team—surgeons, psychologists, dietitians and physical specialists—to ensure safety and maximize long‑term success. Family involvement is required and plays a critical role in supporting healthy habits after surgery.


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Our surgeons have performed more than 9,000 bariatric surgical procedures and the first robotic gastric bypass surgery in the region. As a leader in innovative techniques and complex cases, we offer the most advanced treatment options and support services that ensure safe and effective results.  

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