Financing
In Georgia, weight loss surgery has become the most effective way to treat obesity and related health conditions. Are you also struggling with obesity related health conditions and looking for an effective solution? Dr. Will Johnson offers a wide selection of weight-loss surgeries in Georgia, including gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and revision bariatric procedures, with optimal results and faster recovery. Here, we will provide you with everything you need to know about the Weight Loss Surgical Options Dr. Johnson offers in Georgia.
In the US, around 270,000 bariatric procedures were performed in 2023, according to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS). Within 12 to 18 months after surgery, patients typically lose 60% to 80% of their excess body weight. Although around 30 million Americans are eligible for bariatric surgery, only about 0.5% undergo these life-changing procedures each year.
Understanding Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery comprises a group of surgical procedures that change the digestive system to help people lose weight. It is typically considered for those with severe obesity who have not had success with other weight loss options. Bariatric surgery also works by decreasing the amount of food the stomach holds and/or reducing nutrient absorption.
Who is a Good Candidate for Weight Loss Surgery?
Individuals must typically meet the following criteria to be considered a candidate for weight loss surgery:
Body Mass Index (BMI)
-
- BMI of 40 or greater
- BMI of 35 or greater with at least one obesity-related health condition:
- Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Sleep apnea
- Heart disease
Age: The majority of surgeons prefer that patients be between 18 and 65 years of age.
Lifestyle
- Commit to making lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise.
- Understand the reasonable risks and benefits of surgery.
Medical History
- Be in good medical health aside from obesity-related diseases.
- Have no active infections or serious medical issues that would prevent surgery.
Psychological Evaluation
- Show strong motivation for weight loss and willingness to follow all post-surgical instructions.
- Be without major psychological disorders that may interfere with recovery.
What are the Weight Loss Surgical Options Available in Georgia?
Here are the surgical options for weight loss available in Georgia:
Gastric Sleeve Surgery (Sleeve Gastrectomy)
Gastric sleeve surgery is a popular option for weight-loss surgery throughout Georgia. During surgery, 75% to 80% of the stomach will be removed, leaving an elongated stomach pouch (sleeve). The new, smaller stomach allows patients to feel full and eat less food. Patients will lose weight due to their reduced caloric intake and the sleeve’s improved ability to regulate hunger.
Benefits: Shorter recovery time; minimum risk of developing nutrient deficiencies; long-term effective weight loss.
Average weight loss: 12 to 18 months, 60-70% excess weight loss.
Gastric Bypass Surgery (Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass)
The gastric bypass procedure involves creating a small stomach pouch and bypassing a significant portion of the small intestine, which is done to prevent the absorption of calories. This dual effect allows patients to restrict their food intake and reduce the absorption of food, leading to effective and sustained weight loss.
Best Candidates: Patients with severe obesity and obesity-related conditions (e.g., Type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, etc.).
Benefits: Effective rapid weight loss, long-term diabetes control, and improved cardiovascular risk.
Revision Bariatric Surgery
Dr. Will Johnson offers revision bariatric surgery to patients who have had previous bariatric surgery but did not achieve the expected results. Revision bariatric surgery is a type of procedure that can either correct or improve a previous bariatric procedure to enhance weight loss or resolve complications.
Common types of revisions: Patients may want to convert lap-band to sleeve or bypass, resize the pouch, or correct anatomical problems.
Goals of revision surgery include returning the patient to their previous ability to lose weight and improving their overall long-term health and quality of life.
What are the Key Benefits of Weight Loss Surgery?
Some of the key benefits of weight loss surgery include the following:
Significant and sustained weight loss: Patients will usually lose between 50-75% of their excess body weight and successfully keep it off long-term, far exceeding the results of dieting alone.
Resolution of health conditions: The procedure can resolve or significantly improve many obesity-related comorbidities, including multiple health conditions, like Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, sleep apnea, and high cholesterol.
Increased life expectancy: Studies show that bariatric surgery reduces a person’s risk of premature death from all causes by 30-50%.
Improved quality of life: The majority of patients will experience improved mood and increased self-esteem, decreased depression, improved mobility, and more social engagement.
Increased physical energy: As excess weight is lost, joint pain reduces, and energy levels increase, making it easier to remain active and improve overall function.
What to Expect: The Patient Weight Loss Journey
Initial consultation and evaluation:
- Thorough assessment of medical history, prior attempts to lose weight, and weight loss targets.
- Medical, psychological, and nutritional assessments to determine appropriateness of surgery as a solution.
Pre-operative preparation and counseling:
- Following a pre bariatric surgery diet, typically liquid, in preparation for surgery.
- Life and behavioral counseling by a dietitian and mental health professional.
Surgery day:
- Once checked in, an IV is placed, and the patient meets with the surgical and anesthetic teams.
- The surgeon will then perform the procedure, which can take 1 to 3 hours.
Post-operative care, recovery, and follow-up:
- The patient will spend 1 to 2 days recovering in the hospital, generally progressing from clear liquids to solid food.
- Recovery then includes increasing activities, pain management, and regular follow-up appointments.
- To be successful, a long-term commitment to a changed diet, exercise, and vitamin regimen is required.
How Much is the Average Cost of Weight Loss Surgery in Georgia?
In Georgia, the average cost of weight-loss surgery ranges from $9,500 to over $30,000, depending on the type of procedure and its complexity. The exact cost varies widely depending on numerous factors.
Estimated costs by procedure
- Sleeve Gastrectomy: Approximately $17,913
- Gastric Bypass: $20,000 to $30,000
- Gastric Banding: Around $15,500
- Greater Curvature Plication: $10,000 to $15,000
Factors Influencing the Cost of Weight Loss Surgery
- Type of Surgery
- Insurance Coverage
- Provider and Location
- Included Services
Why Choose Dr. Johnson for Weight Loss Surgery in Georgia?
There are a variety of reasons why you should choose Dr. Johnson for weight loss surgery in Georgia. Some of the key reasons include the following:
- Personalized surgical plans based on patient health
- Advanced minimally invasive techniques
- Supportive aftercare, like nutrition & exercise guidance
- Years of experience and expertise
- Greater precision and quicker recovery
For Review Section on Pages
What Our Customers Say
Schedule a Consultation With Dr. Will Johnson Today!
If you are considering bariatric surgery in Georgia for effective weight loss. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Will Johnson today through the given contact details:
Bodiatrics – Johns Creek Office
Office Locations: 6920 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 340, Suwanee, GA 30024 Conveniently located near Emory Johns Creek Hospital
Phone Number: (404) 854-4123
Office Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Closed Saturday & Sunday
FAQs About Weight Loss Surgical Options in Georgia
The different types of weight-loss surgeries available in Georgia include gastric sleeve (sleeve gastrectomy), gastric bypass (Roux-en-Y), and adjustable gastric banding.
The safest and most popular weight-loss surgical option is the gastric sleeve (sleeve gastrectomy) because of its minimally invasive nature and effective long-term results.
You are a candidate for weight loss surgery if you have a BMI of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or above with an obesity-related condition such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea.
After bariatric surgery, patients should expect to lose 60% to 80% of their excess body weight within 12 to 18 months.
Medically Reviewed By
William Johnson
I’m Dr. Will Johnson, a board-certified surgeon with over two decades of experience specializing in bariatric and vein procedures. After earning my medical degree from the Medical University of South Carolina, I completed my general surgery residency at the University of Florida, where I served as Chief Resident, and later trained at Duke University in advanced minimally invasive and bariatric surgery. As Medical Director of the Atlanta General & Bariatric Surgery Center and the Vein Center at Johns Creek, I’m deeply committed to helping patients achieve long-term wellness through personalized, evidence-based care. Over the years, I’ve introduced advanced single-incision and laparoscopic techniques that minimize pain and recovery time. Beyond surgery, I take pride in educating patients about their health and mentoring fellow surgeons on the latest innovations in surgical care — because I believe great outcomes start with trust, compassion, and continuous learning.