---
title: "Bariatric Surgery"
description: "Sutter Health provides expert bariatric surgery options, including gastric bypass & sleeve. Achieve lasting weight loss & better health with our comprehensive care."
url: "https://www.sutterhealth.org/services/bariatric-surgery"
---

1.  [Home](https://www.sutterhealth.org/) /
2.  [Services](https://www.sutterhealth.org/services) /
3.  Bariatric surgery programs

# Bariatric surgery

Bariatric surgery can be life-changing but it's only one part of the weight loss journey. Our teams perform the latest minimally invasive weight loss procedures and provide support before, during and after surgery.   

[Find a Doctor](https://www.sutterhealth.org/find-provider-results?facets=%5B%7B%22i%22%3A%22acceptingNewPatients%22%2C%22v%22%3A%5Btrue%5D%7D%2C%7B%22i%22%3A%22c_providerSpecialties.specialty.name%22%2C%22v%22%3A%5B%22Bariatric+%28Weight+Loss%29+Surgery%22%5D%7D%5D&query=%22Bariatric+%28Weight+Loss%29+Surgery%22&verticalKey=healthcare_professionals)

[Find a Location](https://www.sutterhealth.org/find-location-results?query=%22facets=%5B%7B%22i%22%3A%22c_relatedServices.name%22%2C%22v%22%3A%5B%22Bariatric+Surgery%22%5D%7D%5D&limit=10&verticalKey=healthcare_facilities)

Why choose Sutter?

Bariatric surgery can significantly improve your health by helping reduce the severity of obesity-related conditions like Type 2 diabetes. It’s important to remember that surgery is just one step toward better health. Sustainable weight loss involves a lifelong commitment to lifestyle changes. That’s why our specialist-led programs focus on the physical and emotional aspects of obesity and offer ongoing support. We integrate surgical technology with dietary and nutritional counseling, emotional support and long-term follow-up care.

Our dedicated teams perform the latest minimally invasive procedures, including Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy and LAP-BAND® surgery as well as non-surgical endoscopic options. We also offer bariatric revision surgery if complications arise, or past procedures stop working. With our support groups and nutrition guidance, we’re here to help you succeed for the long haul. 

By the numbers

### 30+

Sutter doctors

specialize in bariatric surgery and medical weight management.

### 48

locations

mean you’ll find weight management care close to home.

### 7

comprehensive bariatric centers

designated by The American College of Surgeon Surgical Quality Partner and MBSAQIP Accreditation.

### 15

classes and support groups

provide support before and after bariatric surgery and weight loss.

## Need a referral?

Chat live with our team Monday through Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, or call us at [888-834-1788](tel:+18888341788).

[Chat with a referral agent](https://www.sutterhealth.org/referrals)

## Conditions

-   Gastrojejunal ulcer
-   Obesity
-   Solid tumors
-   Type 2 diabetes

## Treatments

-   Bariatric Revision Surgery
-   Duodenal Switch
-   Gastrectomy
-   Gastric Band
-   Intragastric Balloon
-   Lap band adjustment and care
-   Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy
-   Roux en Y Gastric Bypass Surgery
-   Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy

## Frequently asked questions

**What are the benefits of bariatric surgery?**

The benefits of achieving a healthy weight with bariatric surgery are significant, and can include:

-   Effectively treating Type 2 diabetes, with many patients no longer requiring medication
-   Improvement or disappearance of acid reflux symptoms
-   Improved quality of life after surgery
-   Increased energy levels, endurance and ability to enjoy physical activities
-   Marked improvement in obstructive sleep apnea or respiratory problems
-   Resolution of skin problems related to obesity
-   Significant decrease in the risk of heart disease and improved blood pressure
-   Significant improvement in back and joint pain

**Am I eligible for bariatric surgery?**

Bariatric surgery may be an option if you:

-   Are between ages 18–65, though we’ll consider patients over age 65 on a case-by-case basis
-   Have a BMI of at least 40 or a BMI of 35 plus two obesity-related medical conditions
-   Have been unsuccessful at losing weight through other methods

**What are the differences between traditional and minimally invasive approaches for surgery?**

Research shows that minimally invasive surgeries lead to less pain, more minor scars, shorter hospital stays and a quicker return to daily activities and work than open surgeries with larger incisions. However, not everyone qualifies for minimally invasive surgery. Your surgeon will collaborate with you to determine the best surgical approach based on your body and medical needs.

**Can I become pregnant after weight loss surgery?**

We recommended waiting 1–2 years after surgery before trying to get pregnant, and some may need to wait longer depending on any nutritional concerns. When the time is right, nutritional counseling will help ensure you and your baby get the best possible care.

**Will my insurance pay for bariatric surgery?**

Most healthcare plans cover weight loss surgery if you meet specific requirements, but coverage for different parts of the program varies by plan. We recommend contacting your insurance provider before scheduling a consultation with a surgeon. Medicare has stricter coverage rules, and Medi-Cal only covers surgery in specific counties, so it's important to verify what’s included if you have Medicare or Medi-Cal.

**Will I have excess skin after my surgery?**

Loose skin on the face, neck, arms and legs is common after weight loss. You can choose to remove it with cosmetic surgery, but most health plans won’t cover these surgeries unless you can prove they’re needed for issues like recurring skin infections. The amount of excess skin, particularly in the abdominal area, depends on several factors.

-   Age: Younger patients often have better skin elasticity compared to older patients.
-   Exercise: Patients who follow an intense abdominal exercise routine may notice less excess skin due to muscle toning.
-   Genetics: Some individuals are genetically more prone to loose skin.
-   Weight loss amount: The more weight you’ve lost, the more excess skin you may have.

Specialty programs

**Bariatric surgery in Oakland**

Bariatric surgery alone doesn't guarantee weight loss success. It's just one tool among many. Alta Bates Summit’s Bariatric Surgery program in Oakland provides the necessary cares and support for long-term weight loss. Recognized as a Comprehensive Center by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program, we help you prepare for bariatric surgery. Support groups are an essential part of the program, offering community, guidance and encouragement. Attending one support group before surgery is required, and regular participation afterward is highly recommended.

For more information about Alta Bates Summit’s Bariatric Surgery program, please call [510- 869-8972](<tel:510- 869-8972>).

**Bariatric surgery in Santa Rosa**

Our comprehensive bariatric surgery programs in Napa and Sonoma are proven to achieve lasting weight loss for those with morbid obesity. Our minimally invasive surgeries come with personalized support, including nutritional, emotional and exercise guidance. After surgery, we offer long-term follow-up, support groups, and programs like cooking classes. We're accredited for excellence by the Bariatric Surgery Center Network and recognized by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program.

Talk with your care team about participating in this program and attending a [free information session](https://feedback.sutterhealth.org/f/133665/3928/).

**Bariatric surgery in San Francisco and Marin**

Sutter Pacific’s Bariatric program, led by Dr. Gregg Jossart in San Francisco and Marin, provides comprehensive care and long-term support for weight loss. With over 20 years of experience and more than 2,700 successful patients, Dr. Jossart focuses on a strong doctor-patient relationship, ensuring you fully understand your options.

He offers all four major weight loss procedures: duodenal switch, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, vertical sleeve gastrectomy and adjustable gastric banding, using minimally invasive techniques for better results and less discomfort. The program and CPMC are nationally recognized, holding honors from Healthgrades, accreditation from the ASMBS, and Center of Excellence status with top insurance providers.

Talk with your care team to learn more about Sutter Pacific’s Bariatric program.

**Sutter Sansum Clinic’s Bariatric Surgery Center**

Weight loss surgery is the start of a lifelong commitment to wellness — and we’re with you every step of the way. Led by [Marc Zerey, M.D.](https://www.sutterhealth.org/find-provider/dr-marc-zerey-2025577507), our award-winning bariatric surgery team  offers extensive education prior to surgery, as well as post-operative monitoring, nutritional counseling and weight loss support groups to help ensure lasting success.  

Dr. Zerey specializes in minimally invasive procedures, like laparoscopic gastric sleeve, gastric bypass and LAP-BAND® surgery. He and his team of bariatric specialists — including a hands-on dietitian, program coordinator, nurse specialist and more work closely with you and your primary care provider. Together, they’ll create a personalized plan that promotes positive change, inside and out.

Call bariatric surgery program coordinator, Jessica Orozco, at [805-898-3472](tel:805-898-3472) for more information and to sign up for a free orientation with Dr. Zerey. 

## Awards and accreditations

[View all Awards and accreditations](https://www.sutterhealth.org/about-us/awards?verticalKey=awards&facets=%5B%7B%22i%22%3A%22c_awardServices.name%22%2C%22v%22%3A%5B%22Bariatric+surgery%22%5D%7D%5D)

Aetna Health Networks

Multi-Year Recognition

Institute of Quality in Bariatric Surgery

American College of Surgeons Surgical Quality Partner

Multi-Year Recognition

MBSAQIP Accredited Center

Aetna, Cigna, United Health Care and The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services

MBSAQIP Accredited Center

Blue Cross Blue Shield Association

Multi-Year Recognition

Blue Plus Distinction Center for Bariatric Surgery

Optum Health Networks

Multi-Year Recognition

MBSAQIP Accredited Center in Bariatric Surgery

Blue Cross Blue Shield Association

Multi-Year Recognition

Blue Distinction Center for Bariatric Surgery

[View all Awards and accreditations](https://www.sutterhealth.org/about-us/awards?verticalKey=awards&facets=%5B%7B%22i%22%3A%22c_awardServices.name%22%2C%22v%22%3A%5B%22Bariatric+surgery%22%5D%7D%5D)

![teenage-girl-and-the-doctor](https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/sutterhealt962c-sutterhealt8fce-production57cc-4860/media/Project/SutterHealth/SutterHealth/Images/people/women/teenage-girl-and-the-doctor.jpg?h=1414&iar=0&w=2121)

## Bariatric surgery outcomes

Explore Palo Alto Medical Foundation's bariatric surgery outcomes, where patients experience safe, long-term weight loss along with improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

[View bariatric surgery outcomes](https://www.sutterhealth.org/about-us/quality-care/service-outcomes)

![teenage-girl-and-the-doctor](https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/sutterhealt962c-sutterhealt8fce-production57cc-4860/media/Project/SutterHealth/SutterHealth/Images/people/women/teenage-girl-and-the-doctor.jpg?h=1414&iar=0&w=2121)

![health-research](https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/sutterhealt962c-sutterhealt8fce-production57cc-4860/media/Project/SutterHealth/SutterHealth/Images/GME/Residency/Sutter-Health-Family-Medicine-Residency/Family-Medicine-Residency-Educational-Highlights-_-Sutter-Health/health-research.jpg?h=1414&iar=0&w=2121)

## Obesity research

Over 1/3 of Americans are obese, which increases their risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and some cancers. Research into prevention and treatment is key to improving public health.

[View research](https://www.sutterhealth.org/research-search-results?query=%22Obesity%22&verticalKey=clinical_trial)

## Classes & events

[View all classes & events](https://www.sutterhealth.org/patient-resources/find-event-results?limit=10&query=%22%5C%22Nutrition%5C%22+%5C%22Weight+management%5C%22%22&verticalKey=events)

-   Webinar
    
    ### [Bariatric Surgery Orientation for Peninsula and Fremont](https://ewp.seatrobot.com/66f32bee33ea82483f1ddb0b/69431faba62697eaf596cb5b/)
    
    Thursday, November 19, 2026
    
    Please join us to learn about the program, bariatric surgery and nutrition and diet recommendations.
    
-   Class
    
    ### [Mito Food Plan: The Energy Diet (Online)](https://ewp.seatrobot.com/66f32bee33ea82483f1ddb0b/6a921e8dac196e21131b72a2/)
    
    Wednesday, November 18, 2026
    
    In this 90-minute class, learn the low glycemic, anti-inflammatory food plan to improve your blood sugar levels and body composition, as well as heart and neurological health. $50
    
-   Class
    
    ### [Elimination Diet: Understanding Food Sensitivities (Online)](https://ewp.seatrobot.com/66f32bee33ea82483f1ddb0b/6a921b2b27cdeeef5db3474c/)
    
    Monday, November 9, 2026
    
    This training on the Elimination Diet protocol is designed to help people with a variety of gastrointestinal and systemic conditions that can often be improved by food elimination and gut health. $50
    

[View all classes & events](https://www.sutterhealth.org/patient-resources/find-event-results?limit=10&query=%22%5C%22Nutrition%5C%22+%5C%22Weight+management%5C%22%22&verticalKey=events)

## Patient stories

[View all stories](https://www.sutterhealth.org/patient-stories)

-   [Patient story
    
    ### Santa Rosa Woman Finds New Life After Bariatric Care
    
    ](https://www.sutterhealth.org/patient-stories/santa-rosa-woman-finds-new-life-after-bariatric-care-2028236714)

[View all stories](https://www.sutterhealth.org/patient-stories)

## Bariatric surgery and weight loss care

Get care at Sutter, where specialists help you lose weight and improve conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.

[Find a bariatric care specialist](https://www.sutterhealth.org/find-provider-results?https://www.sutterhealth.org/find-provider-results?facets=[{%22i%22:%22acceptingNewPatients%22,%22v%22:[true]},{%22i%22:%22c_providerSpecialties.specialty.name%22,%22v%22:[%22Bariatric%20\(Weight%20Loss\)%20Surgery%22]}]&query=%22Bariatric%20\(Weight%20Loss\)%20Surgery%22&verticalKey=healthcare_professionals)

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