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700 Geipe Road #274 Catonsville MD 21228
Phone 667-234-8725

Advanced Weight Loss/Bariatric Surgery in Baltimore and Columbia, Maryland

It always takes a team to help you reach your goals. Ascension Saint Agnes bariatric surgeons and team members form strong bonds with our patients that begin with your first seminar, continue into all of your appointments preparing you for your procedure, and provide support over the years to come. Our patients tell us they value the special ongoing relationship that comes from having a surgeon who knows you, your history, what causes you to struggle, and what makes you come alive.

MBSAQIP Seal
The Surgical Program is an Accredited Center by the American College of Surgeons’ Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program.

Health care facilities recognized for expertise and cost efficiency in delivering specialty care.

Bariatrics 20th Anniversary

Over 20 years of changing lives

aetna
BlueCross BlueShield
optum
United Healthcare
Cigna
Saint Agnes Hospital Bariatric Program is designated by these major insurance companies as a Center of Excellence and designated provider.

Watch our video testimonial
on how Keith lost over 100lbs
with the bariatric program at Ascension Saint Agnes

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Meet Your Bariatric Surgeons in Maryland

DR. AVERBACH - Board Certified General & Bariatric Surgeon

Dr. Averbach

Dr. Andrew Averbach is a board-certified general and bariatric surgeon with more than 30 years of experience. He has performed more than 4,500 weight loss procedures since 2002, and they have been safe, effective, and helped people change and transform their lives for good.

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DR. HAMDALLAH - Bariatic & General Surgeon

Dr. Hamdallah

Dr. Isam Hamdallah earned his medical degree at the Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST) School of Medicine in 2000. A native of Amman, Jordan, he continued his education and training as a surgical resident in various rotations in the United Kingdom.
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Dr. Swift

Dr. Swift

Dr. Catriona Swift is trained in laparoscopic, robotic, and endoscopic techniques and offers duodenal switch, gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, revisional bariatric surgery, endoscopic weight loss procedures, and surgical treatment of GERD, hiatal hernia, and achalasia.

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“As bariatric surgeons and your neighbors in the Baltimore community, we encourage you to just start a conversation with one of us as a first step and remind you we are here to support you through the journey.”

Bariatric surgical procedures include those that cause weight loss by restricting the amount of food the stomach can hold, those that cause weight loss primarily as a result of malabsorption of nutrients, and those that cause weight loss both by gastric restriction and malabsorption. Most bariatric procedures today are performed using minimally invasive techniques (laparoscopic surgery).

We offer the safest and most effective primary bariatric surgical procedures, as well as revision bariatric surgery

  • Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

  • Sleeve Gastrectomy

  • Bilio-Pancreatic Diversion

  • Bariatric Revision Surgery

  • Endoscopic Bariatric Procedures

Register For Our Free Online Weight Loss Seminar To Compare Your Options!

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Why Choose Us

  • 5-Star Reviews on Google, Healthgrades.com, Facebook & Yelp

  • Most major commercial plans are accepted

  • Unparalleled Surgical Expertise

  • MBSAQIP National Accreditation

  • Offer one-on-one guidance to keep you on the road to success

Try Our BMI Calculator

BMI Classification Health Risk
Under 18.5 Underweight Minimal
18.5 – 24.9 Normal Weight Minimal
25 – 29.9 Overweight Increased
30 – 34.9 Obese High
35 – 39.9 Severely Obese Very High
40 and Over Morbidly Obese Extremely High
*Note that these are approximate values, and are intended to be used only as a rough guide.

What is BMI

BMI is the most widely used measurement for obesity. The BMI approximates body mass using a mathematical ratio of weight and height [(weight in kg ÷ height in meters2) or (weight in pounds ÷ height in inches2 x 703)].
A BMI of 30 or more is regarded by most health agencies as the threshold for obesity. A BMI of 40 or more generally qualifies as morbid obesity. However, note that BMI measurements in body-builders and athletes may not be accurate determinants of obesity because the BMI does not distinguish between muscle and fat.

Federal Guidelines for Healthy Weight

  • Underweight. Your BMI is less than 18.5.
  • Ideal Weight for Your Height. Your BMI is between 18.5 and 24.9.
  • Overweight. Your BMI is between 25 and 29.9.
  • Obese. Your BMI is 30 or greater.
Can You Safely Exercise With a Hernia?

Can You Safely Exercise With a Hernia?

Hernias often emerge as an unwelcome surprise during physical activities. Whether it’s a sharp pain during a heavy squat or a noticeable bulge after a sneezing fit, hernias can be both alarming and confusing. The question many ask is: Can you work out with a hernia? And if so, how can you do it safely? […]
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Overcoming Post-Surgery Fatigue: A Guide to Regaining Strength After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Overcoming Post-Surgery Fatigue: A Guide to Regaining Strength After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Gastric sleeve surgery, a transformative weight loss procedure, has transformed countless lives. However, the journey to a healthier self doesn’t end in the operating room. Many patients report experiencing weakness after gastric sleeve surgery, a common post-operative challenge. This article delves into the reasons behind this weakness and offers actionable solutions to help patients regain […]
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Weight Loss Medication Vs Surgery: Comparing The Two

Weight Loss Medication Vs Surgery: Comparing The Two

When it comes to losing weight, you have several options that you can select from. One is to get weight loss surgery as many people choose to do. The other common option is to take medications. However, many people often have the question of whether weight loss surgery vs. medication is the best option for […]
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bariatric Surgery in Baltimore, Maryland

How long do I need to take off work for Bariatric Surgery?
This will depend entirely on the type of work you do and the results of the surgery. Most patients who work jobs that involve minimal movement and minimal manual labor can usually return to work in two weeks. However, patients who do perform manual labor or have jobs that require a great deal of movement may need to take more time off work (up to four weeks).

When can I start exercising again after Bariatric Surgery?
Exercise is an important part of any weight loss regimen, and this includes weight loss induced by bariatric surgery. We recommend patients start walking as soon as they’re comfortably able to, however exercise will need to be limited to brisk walks and exercise biking on low settings. Patients can start swimming as soon as the surgeon has assessed that the wounds have healed. Distance running and weight training should be held off until at least four weeks after surgery, and even then should be held off until the patient gets the doctor’s approval.

Will I have to take vitamins or supplements after surgery? Does my insurance pay for vitamins and supplements?

Patients will be advised to take a multivitamin, which includes both vitamin and mineral supplements. Patients are also advised to take protein supplements in order to meet protein goals. Insurance typically will not cover supplement costs, however, you can elect to pay for them out of a Flex or HAS medical account. Flex and HAS medical accounts are accounts taken from your pre-tax income that can be used to pay for medical expenses.

Will I have to diet or exercise after the procedure?

The answer is yes. After surgery, you will be put on a highly restrictive post-op diet, which slowly reintroduces foods as it becomes safe for your body to digest them. After the post-op diet, you will be given support in order to help you eat the right foods. Although surgery makes it hard to overeat while reducing the body’s ability to absorb calories, there is a risk that the patient will fall back into old behaviors. For this reason, we provide support including a monthly in-person support group, online support, and help from dietitians who are knowledgeable about the nutritional needs of bariatric surgery patients.

An exercise regimen is highly recommended, and patients who exercise are much more likely to be satisfied with their results.