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Bariatric Surgery

A journey to wellness

Our pediatric experts can explain a lot about bariatric surgery as a treatment option for severe obesity. One thing they can't tell them: how they will feel throughout the process.

That's why we connected a family who is about to go through bariatric surgery with a family who's been through it — to answer questions, to shed light and to offer hope — from the decision to have surgery to life after surgery. These conversations heal. Watch them on the following pages.

Meet the families

Our new family

Jessika has struggled with her weight for many years despite several weight loss efforts. Her weight struggles have affected her confidence and her health. Now, she's ready to have bariatric surgery and wants to know what to expect.

Our experienced family

Even with the help of dietitians and popular weight-loss programs, Mona couldn't seem to lose weight. Newly diagnosed problems, such as sleep apnea and prediabetes, prompted her to have bariatric surgery for the sake of improving her health.

The bariatric surgery journey

Making the decision

It's never easy to make the decision to have bariatric surgery. Learn how our families made the tough decision to move forward with this life-changing surgery.

Making the decision

Preparation and recovery

Bariatric surgery is a treatment option for severely obese teens that requires a big commitment before, during and after surgery. Mona shares what surgery and recovery were like for her.

Preparation and recovery

Life after surgery

Bariatric surgery is just the first step of the weight loss journey. Mona talks about the lifestyle changes Jessika will need to make for the rest of her life.

Life after surgery

Closeup of a Jessika smiling
"I want to be able to run when everyone else wants to and finish with everyone else."
Jessika, patient about to have bariatric surgery

Additional bariatric surgery resources

Partnership with the University of Colorado School of Medicine

Children's Hospital Colorado partners with the University of Colorado School of Medicine, where many of our physicians and care providers serve as faculty.