Flushing Hospital Medical Center is further expanding its list of clinical services to include bariatric surgery. The new program will be headed by Dr. Sanjeev Rajpal, a pioneer and expert in weight loss surgery, as well as Dr. Paul Thodiyil, who has many years of experience.
The availability of this service is timely- as the demand for bariatric surgery has increased due to the rise in obesity rates. It is estimated that more than one third (35%) of adults in the United States are obese. Overcoming obesity by way of exercise and diet alone can be difficult for some people. Bariatric surgery is often the only option for individuals who have tried several weight loss treatments or methods to lose weight, but were unsuccessful.
Flushing Hospital will offer patients a unique approach and experience in weight loss surgery. Clients’ success will not only be measured by pounds shed but include a complete lifestyle change that embodies mental and physical wellness.
The bariatric surgery program will offer patients a range of minimally invasive surgical procedures that will include:
- Gastric bypass surgery
- Lap band surgery
- Sleeve gastrectomy
- Bariatric revisions
Doctors will work with each patient to decide which procedure is best suited for their lifestyle or health condition.
In order to foster this multi-level model of treatment, support services will be available to patients in addition to the surgical procedures.
Support services will include:
- Close physician monitoring- Flushing Hospital’s team of bariatric experts, will closely monitor each patient throughout their weight loss journey.
- Pre and post-surgery psychological evaluations- Assessments will aid patients in understanding their eating behaviors.
- Personalized diet and nutrition counseling- Registered dietitians will be available to assess clients’ eating habits and create a nutrition plan to support a new and healthy lifestyle.
- Ongoing education and support groups- Support groups and education seminars will be facilitated by trained professionals. These meetings are helpful in aiding patients to transition into a new way of life.
Flushing Hospital’s Chairman of Surgery, Dr. Neil Mandava is looking forward to the launch of the bariatric services. Dr. Mandava stated, “The goal for the new bariatric surgery program is to solidify Flushing Hospital as the go-to and premiere facility for weight loss surgery in the area.” “Residents will no longer have to venture outside of the communities served by the hospital to obtain assistance in achieving their weight loss objectives,” added Dr. Mandava.
For more Information about bariatric services at Flushing Hospital please call the department of Surgery at 718-670-3135.