University of Virginia Health System

Bariatric Surgery at UVa

The Bariatric (weight loss) Surgery program at UVa offers a combination of leading-edge technology, medical expertise and comprehensive support for patients and their families.

Nationally-recognized experts

The program is headed by two surgeons: Dr. Bruce Shirmer, a nationally-recognized expert in bariatric surgery and  Dr. C. Joe Northup. The bariatric surgery program is part of UVa's Digestive Health Center of Excellence, one of only 16 National Institutes of Health Digestive Disease centers in the country.

A comprehensive, team approach

Uva's bariatric team recognizes that no surgery, no matter how successful, can address the full range of issues facing individuals grappling with obesity. For that reason, the UVa team goes beyond the operation itself to provide individuals with the keys to life-long suc- cess, including complete nutritional services, counseling and access to a team of specialists who understand the personal and medical challenges fac- ing people with obesity. The University of Virginia Health System team even follows surgery patients throughout their life, seeing each patient at least once a year to monitor his or her progress.

Minimally-invasive surgery

UVa's leading surgical technolgoy makes it possible for most patients to undergo bariatric surgery through small incisions rather than through traditional open surgery. This commonly results in less bleeding, less discomfort and faster recovery.

Insurance coverage

Many insurance carriers cover bariatric surgery when deemed medically necessary. UVa offers a special package for patients whose insurance does not cover the procedure but who wish to pay for surgery directly.

Click here to meet our bariatric physicians

To find out more, please call (800) 251-DOCS (3627) and ask for the bariatric surgery program.