Performing weight loss surgery on adolescents since 2008, Connecticut Children’s Bariatric Surgery Program offers the adjustable gastric banding procedure and sleeve gastrectomy to select youth ages 10 and older who have a BMI of 40 or greater, or have a BMI of 35 with a medical co-morbidity.
Led by Surgeon-in-Chief Christine Finck, MD, bariatric surgery is handled by a multidisciplinary team of surgeons, endocrinologists, dietitians, physical therapists, and psychologists. Comprehensive care is provided at every stage of the process, from pre-operative consultation through post-operative follow-up care.
Pre-op Phase
Patients must go through an online information session and a multidisciplinary evaluation before undergoing bariatric surgery. Our team works with patients and families to help them decide if surgery is the right option. Patients are required to attend bariatric surgery support group meetings prior to surgery. Bariatric surgery is not an option for everyone and should only be considered when other methods for weight loss are exhausted.
Post-op Phase
The specialists who perform bariatric surgery are committed to following patients for a minimum of five years following surgery. During this time, patients have appointments with the entire team, less frequently as signs of successful surgery emerge. Support group meeting attendance remains a requirement throughout the post-op phase.
Support Group Meetings
The bariatric surgery support group meets at 4 pm on the fourth Wednesday of each month. Discussions are led by the program’s psychologist and registered dietitian.
For more information about bariatric surgery, including frequently asked questions, please download our brochure.
