Adolescent Weight Loss Surgery

At the Adolescent Healthy Weight Program, we provide gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, for people ages 13 to 17 who have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher and at least one accompanying risk factor, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, severe sleep apnea, or gallbladder disease. This procedure reduces the size of the stomach, which helps people eat less and feel full faster. It can also reduce insulin resistance, a condition that can lead to increased hunger and weight gain.

Research shows that bariatric, meaning weight loss, surgery helps teenagers lower their BMI and reverse or significantly reduce their risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. By reducing the risk of these obesity-related disorders earlier in life, surgical treatment can help prevent illness in teens and lead to better health as adults.

We have a strong commitment to patient safety. Our program is accredited by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) as a comprehensive center providing high-quality, patient-centered care. We are also designated as an Optum Center of Excellence for adolescent bariatric surgery. Weight loss surgery for teens is performed by Dr. Jun Tashiro, a pediatric general surgeon who specializes in bariatric surgery.

Surgical Care Focused on Teens

All teens in our program start with medical weight loss interventions, including nutritional counseling and an evaluation for weight loss medications. If those efforts prove unsuccessful, your child’s doctor may recommend surgery. This process starts with an evaluation by our child and adolescent psychologist, who determines if your child is ready for the procedure. We want to be sure your child understands how it will impact their life and is committed to making lifelong changes to maintain weight loss.

Weight loss surgery for teens takes place at Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital—34th Street, which is one of the most technologically advanced children’s hospitals in the country. Our team members specialize in pediatric care, including child life specialists, nutritionists, mental health experts, social workers, and other specialists in pediatric care provide support and education for your entire family. We give you the tools you need to support your child during postsurgical weight loss and then maintaining a healthy weight.