A type of obesity surgery, known as lap band surgery, is now being offered to teens in Colorado, according to a recent news release.

The Bariatric Surgery Center at Rose, one of the top lap band providers in Colorado, recently launched the Teen Obesity Weight Loss Program — a program aimed at improving the health of obese teens.

“This program’s main goal is to improve the health of young people who need help,” Dr. Michael A. Snyder, medical director for the Bariatric Surgery Center at Rose, said in the news release. “This isn’t just about having surgery, and it’s not some quick fix. Teens and their families go through months of counseling and classes before any surgical options are considered.”

Teen Obesity Weight Loss Program is a comprehensive, medical weight loss management program available for any young person wanting to improve weight and overall health.

“Being a teenager is never easy. Being a teenager in high school who’s had bariatric surgery isn’t easy, either, but going through high school overweight is a nightmare,” said Dr. Snyder. “We want to help these kids. We want to improve their health, extend their lives, and boost their self-esteem at the same time. That’s why this program is so important.”

The program’s team includes a nutritionist, an exercise therapist, and a pediatrician — all of whom have experience with patients receiving the gastric sleeve in Colorado. A psychology group with vast pediatric experience is also part of the team. Additionally, the program partners with pediatric specialists in pulmonary medicine, cardiac medicine and endocrinology, who can provide any specialized care the patient may need.

Obesity Surgery Now Available to Teens in Colorado | ThirdAge