The Center for Bariatric Surgery
IMPORTANT: Changes Due to COVID-19 Preparedness and Response
We are carefully monitoring news about coronavirus COVID-19. As proactive steps:
- All pre-op teaching classes, support groups and orientations are cancelled for April.
- In-person nutrition appointments will be converted to telephone visits.
- We are also creating video-based appointments for group nutrition appointments and support groups. Please continue to check this website or the private WLS Facebook page for updates. Learn more about Lifespan Telehealth »
We will call you with needed information for your specific case.
Please read these guidelines if you have an appointment scheduled at any Lifespan clinic »
Health Care Personalized for You
Many obese patients struggle daily with their weight and related medical conditions such as high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and diabetes, as well as with the stigma of obesity.
The Center for Bariatric Surgery, a program of Rhode Island and The Miriam hospitals, offers a long-term solution. Bariatrics is the field of medicine that specializes in treating obesity, and bariatric surgery refers to surgery that promotes weight loss.
Our specialists make sure that patients are prepared for surgery, both physically and psychologically, from pre-surgery assessment and education through treatment, follow-up care, and ongoing support to help patients maintain their nutritional health and lifestyle changes for optimal success.
- Bariatric surgeons
- Physicians
- Nurse practitioners
- Behavioral therapists
- Nutritionists
- Physical therapists
- Nurses with expertise in weight loss surgery
What Is Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery is not a cure. It is a tool. Treatments are personalized for you and your needs. The team will help you consider the questions that help you decide whether weight-loss surgery is right for you.
Bariatric Surgery Before and After
From the initial evaluation, through the testing, the surgery and recovery, bariatric surgery is a journey.
Attend a Weight Loss Surgery Orientation Session
Completion of our patient orientation is the first step in our program. Patients can now attend this from the comfort of home.
- Click through the the online orientation below
- Complete a quiz following the orientation
After your successful completion, a member of the Center for Bariatric Surgery team will contact you with next steps.
Adolescent Bariatric Surgery
To learn about adolescent bariatric surgery at Lifespan call 401-228-0555.
Award-Winning Care
Center Achieves Blue Distinction+ Recognition
Blue Cross Blue Shield has named The Miriam Hospital a Blue Distinction Center+ for bariatric surgery, for its expertise and cost-efficiency in delivery of specialty care. Blue Distinction Specialty Care is a national designation program that recognizes health care providers who demonstrate expertise in particular specialties, so that patients seeking treatment can find the quality and value they desire.
Center Meets Highest Safety and Quality Standards
Once again, the Center for Bariatric Surgery has been accredited by the American College of Surgeons in conjunction with the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. The Lifespan Center for Bariatric Surgery has been noted for its long-term successes as well as outstanding care that is designed specifically for each patient. This patient-centric approach has led, once again, to the center achieving dual re-accreditation in 2017 for both adult and adolescent surgery. It was also previously certified in 2015.
Optum Center of Excellence Accreditation
Centers of Excellence accreditation was given to the Center for Bariatric Surgery in 2019, because the center achieves positive patient outcomes as well as cost effectiveness.
