Obesity has become a national health crisis in the United States, which not only affects the lives of individuals who suffer from the health risks related to obesity, but also our country's economic productivity. In Texas alone, more than 64 percent of the state population is overweight or obese, and the numbers are rising every year. This may be why the number of weight loss surgery centers in the state is growing, as well.

Dr. Jason Harrison has a fast-growing practice for weight loss surgery in Arlington, Texas, about 20 miles West of Dallas. Dr. Harrison has practiced surgery for more than ten years, and is a member of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. He specializes in the Lap-Band procedure, which is a minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery designed to reduce the amount of food intake and promote rapid weight loss.

Scientifically speaking, obesity is measured by Body Mass Index. Individuals with a BMI of 30-35 are considered overweight, and those with a BMI of 35 or higher are considered severely or morbidly obese. Normally, obese people are advised to try an exercise and diet program to lose weight. Exercise can help burn excess fat, while diet aids in controlling the amount of calories eaten in a day. However, when these two methods of weight reduction prove ineffective, weight loss surgery may be needed.

There are several types of weight loss surgery procedures, including Lap-Band surgery, gastric bypass surgery, and the sleeve gastrectomy. Dr. Jason Harrison prefers the Lap-Band and sleeve gastrectomy procedures, and he has helped hundreds of Arlington-area patients achieve a healthy weight through weight loss surgery.  

Dr. Harrison conducts regular seminars at his Arlington, Texas, practice on the risks and benefits weight loss surgery, and on the type of care that patients can expect from Harrison Bariatrics. Because follow-up care is extremely important for weight loss surgery patients, particularly those who have had the Lap-Band procedure, Dr. Harrison also conducts regular support group meetings, where patients can get answers to their questions and connect with their peers.

Weight loss surgery is a life-changing event, and Dr. Harrison believes it is important for patients to understand the ongoing commitment required for long-term success. Patients who undergo the Lap-Band procedure are required to visit Harrison Bariatrics every few months for the necessary adjustments to the gastric band, and a routine consultation on the progress of their weight loss. Dr. Harrison and his staff also closely monitor his patients' diet and exercise programs, regardless of whether the patient underwent Lap-Band surgery or a sleeve gastrectomy. With appropriate follow-up care, the end result of either procedure is an effective reduction of weight and maintenance of healthy eating habits, both of which can dramatically minimize other health concerns.