Bariatric services at Aurora Sinai Medical Center

A Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence

Regaining confidence

• Leading the way to help patients with the fight against obesity
• The first in Milwaukee to offer both traditional bariatric surgery and the new Lap-Band system – a minimally invasive alternative
• By combining surgery with psychological and nutritional support, the center's medical professionals are increasing the chances of weight loss success – and changing lives every day

All happening next to the Marquette campus, near the heart of downtown Milwaukee.

To attend a free bariatric surgery information seminar at Aurora Sinai Medical Center, please call (414) 219-3008. Registration is required.

Breakthrough surgical options for the treatment of severe obesity

• Experienced hospital: Aurora Sinai is a leader in bariatric surgery, performing a high number of procedures each year. Research shows that patients can expect better results from programs with high volumes of related procedures – including fewer complications from surgery and faster recovery times.
• Experienced physician: Our medical director, Dr. Thomas Chua, is a pioneer in the field and is often asked to speak as a "thought leader" on bariatric surgery at medical conferences around the world. He is also an academic leader, teaching other surgeons in the field of bariatrics.
• A comprehensive program: Our program offers patients the benefits of an entire team of experts. The bariatric surgeon works closely with clinical coordinators, nutritionists, psychologists and physician assistants to develop personalized treatment plans for each patient.
• Research: Aurora Sinai has opened new doors in the field of bariatric surgery. It was the first hospital in Milwaukee to offer gastric bypass and the first facility in Wisconsin to offer the LAP-BAND® System, an FDA-approved, minimally invasive surgical treatment for severe obesity.

To learn more about the Bariatric Surgery Program, call (414) 219-3008.

You may consider bariatric surgery if you are more than 80 pounds overweight.

About the Aurora Sinai Bariatric Surgery Program

If you are considering weight loss surgery, your first step is to attend a free information session at Aurora Sinai. During this session you will learn more about our expert medical team, the bariatric procedures we offer, the risks and benefits of surgery, and results you may expect. You will also have the opportunity to ask any questions.

Bariatric surgery is only a tool. Success after surgery depends upon your commitment to proper nutrition, exercise and lifestyle changes. This must include a support system, nutritional education and behavioral and emotional counseling, all of which are provided by the Aurora Sinai Medical Center Bariatric Surgery Program. Our team is here to help you every step of the way.

At the end of the information session you will receive a packet of information and application forms to be filled out if you decide to pursue surgical options.

Your next step is to attend a psychological and nutritional consultation. After these consultations you will meet with the surgeon. The decision to move forward with a procedure is made only after the medical team has reached consensus. We will then request prior-authorization from your insurance company. Expect this process to take about 6-8 weeks.

After we receive authorization, we will schedule a history and physical appointment. You will be asked to make a commitment to surgical care and your new lifestyle. Before you leave the office, we will schedule your pre-operative testing which includes blood work, EKG, Upper GI, gall bladder ultrasound and any other tests needed to assure surgical safety. Surgery will also be scheduled at this time.

Expect the entire process, from your information session to the point of undergoing surgery, to take between 3-6 months.

We ask patients to please remember that this process takes time. Our program requirements are in place to assure your commitment to, and safety during, surgery.

Information sessions are held the first Wednesday of each month in the 1st Floor Auditorium at Aurora Sinai (945 N. 12th St., Milwaukee). You must register to attend.

To make a reservation or to learn more about the Aurora Sinai Medical Center Bariatric Surgery Program, please call (414) 219-3008.

About your surgical team

Aurora Sinai was the first hospital in Milwaukee to offer gastric bypass in the mid-1970's. They were also the first facility in Wisconsin to offer the LAP-BAND® System, a FDA approved, minimally invasive, long-term surgical treatment for severe obesity.

For each case, a highly skilled team is assembled that best suits the patient's unique needs. Our team of surgeons, clinical coordinators, nutritionists, psychologists and physician assistants work together to develop a personalized treatment plan for each patient. As experts in bariatric medicine, the team shares their knowledge with the community through support groups, seminars and outreach events, as well as trains physicians and medical professionals.

Dr. Thomas Chua specializes in general, vascular and laparoscopic surgeries. Dr. Chua serves as the Medical Director of the Aurora Sinai Medical Center Bariatric Surgery Program and was the first surgeon in Wisconsin to perform the LAP-BAND® procedure. He is also a member of the American Society for Bariatric Surgery and a fellow to the American College of Surgeons.

Insurance coverage

There is such an improvement in the health of people who need and undergo weight loss surgery, that many insurance companies now cover the surgery. However, each insurance policy differs.

Check with your insurance provider prior to treatment to determine whether you meet their criteria. If surgical treatment of morbid obesity is an "excluded benefit," you must either change insurance coverage, self-finance, or work with your employer/insurance provider to obtain coverage. Other exclusions, such as issues of medical necessity or considering the Lap Band® investigational are issues that we can help you appeal.

Contact us/attend an information session

If you are considering bariatric surgery, your next step is to attend a mandatory information session. During this session, you will learn more about the surgery and the steps required.

Information sessions are held the first Wednesday of each month in the 1st Floor Auditorium at Aurora Sinai (945 N. 12th St., Milwaukee). You must register to attend.

To make a reservation or to learn more about the Aurora Sinai Medical Center Bariatric Surgery Program, please call (414) 219-3008.

Attend a support group meeting

Support groups are designed for those considering bariatric surgery, those who are scheduled for surgery, and those who have already undergone a procedure. The groups are patient led and sometimes include an outside speaker.

Support group meetings are held the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. in the 1st Floor Auditorium at 945 N 12th St.

Location

The Bariatric Surgery Program is on the 1st floor of Aurora Sinai Medical Center and is easily accessed from all major highways. Free valet parking is available at the hospital main entrance.