With a new year comes resolutions and the promise to be a “new you.” If one of your resolutions is to lose weight, Valley LifeStart: The Center for Weight and Wellness™ can help you navigate the weight loss world and find the best approach for your success.
There are many options available to individuals looking to lose weight. Valley LifeStart works with patients to evaluate the many traditional and evolving treatments to determine the optimal approach based on medical history, family history, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Treatments may include bariatric surgery and medical management.
Bariatric Surgery
Valley’s program offers leading-edge surgical options, including robotic-assisted sleeve gastrectomy and robotic-assisted modified duodenal switch, for those for whom surgery is considered the best solution.
Patients who undergo surgery can lose anywhere from 50 to 80% of their initial excess weight, depending on the selected procedure. Weight loss varies depending on many factors.
Those eligible for bariatric surgery include individuals who have a body mass index (BMI) greater than 40; individuals who have a BMI greater than 35 and have weight-related conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea; and individuals who meet either of the previous BMI criteria and have also failed non-surgical attempt at weight loss, specifically a combined regimen of diet and exercise.
“Our vision is to create the most comprehensive weight and wellness program in the region: a one-stop shop offering all services tailored to patients’ needs, utilizing the latest technology and evidence-based care,” said Edward Yatco, MD, Medical Director of Robotic and Minimally Invasive Surgery for Valley Medical Group and Subspeciality Director of Bariatric Surgery at The Valley Hospital.
Medical Management
Valley LifeStart also offers medical weight management using the latest FDA-approved weight medications for individuals who do not qualify or are not interested in surgical treatment for obesity. Our team works with patients to find the right combination of strategies that will help them meet their weight-loss goals. Medical weight management includes dietary and lifestyle changes, exercise plans, and medications that are FDA-approved.
Patients typically lose approximately 10 to 15% of their total body weight with medical management. Current medications that are approved for weight loss act to suppress appetite, reduce cravings, decrease absorption of fats, and make you feel full.
Those eligible for medical management for weight loss include individuals who have a BMI greater than 30 and individuals who have a BMI greater than 27 and have weight-related complications.
“Weight loss is not about losing weight on the scale but rather a total change in physical and mental attitudes towards your health. At Valley, our comprehensive weight loss program helps you to regain control of your life, whether it is surgical or medical weight loss,” said Naser E. Gharaibeh, MD, Medical Director of the Metabolic Medicine and Weight Loss Program for Valley Medical Group.
The Valley LifeStart Approach
Valley LifeStart features a multidisciplinary team of professionals, including doctors, nurse practitioners, dietitians, social workers, and patient coordinators. Valley Health LifeStyles, Valley’s fitness center located in Mahwah, New Jersey, offers lifestyle modification and exercise support to patients.
Central to Valley’s program is its holistic, comprehensive approach. The program is not just about weight management but focuses on total health. Care can involve the patient’s family where appropriate. Through a personalized approach to care, Valley LifeStart provides patients with the tools to lose weight successfully, maintain success, and live healthier, fuller lives.
For more information about Valley LifeStart, please call 201-251-3480, or visit ValleyHealth.com/WeightLoss.
