Support Services
Weight loss surgery requires serious consideration and a long-term commitment to a major change in lifestyle. Patients should realize that they — and their family and friends — must be prepared to adjust to a substantial reduction in their weight as well as drastic changes in their lifestyle.
Our surgeons treat bariatric patients by using the combined expertise of many health care professionals. They work closely with registered dietitians, psychiatrists, psychologists, and physical therapists to meet your individual needs.
Our surgeons help patients through the evaluation and approval process required by medical insurers. They will also help to transition your care to other areas after surgery, which may include plastic surgery through the UPMC Life After Weight Loss Program, or joint replacement surgery.
Support groups are open to all patients and family members pursuing bariatric surgery, or who have already had a bariatric, gastric bypass or adjustable gastric band procedure.
Bariatric Support Group
Second Wednesday of the Month
6 to 7:30 p.m.
Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC, Auditorium, Zero Level
Get directions
2012 SupPort Groups
“Virtual Grocery Store Tour”
David Hinzman, RD, RN
Wednesday, January 11
"A Patient's Story”
Lisa Streb, RN
Wednesday, February 8
Open Discussion
Vicki March, MD, Internal Medicine
Wednesday, March 14
"Dispelling the Myths about Bariatric Surgery"
Giselle Hamad, MD, Minimally Invasive Bariatric & General Surgery
Wednesday, April 11
Ask the Doctor Open Discussion
Carol McCloskey, MD Minimally Invasive Bariatric & General Surgery
Wednesday, May 9
To Be Announced
Wednesday, June 13
Ask the Doctor Open Discussion
Anita Courcoulas, MD, MPH, Director, Minimally Invasive Bariatric & General Surgery
Wednesday, July 11
To Be Announced
Wednesday, August 8
Open Discussion
William Gourash, CRNP
Wednesday, September 12
"Life After Weight Loss Surgery - Body Contouring"
J. Peter Rubin, MD, Chief, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Wednesday, October 10
Open Discussion
Barbara C. Penner, MS, Lifestyle Behaviorist
Wednesday, November 14
2012 Behaviorist Sessions
Whether you have experienced weight regain after your surgery, or you have obstacles preventing you from having a healthy lifestyle, a behaviorist can help you to get back on track pre- or post- surgery.
Sessions will be held in Suite 5600 at 7 p.m. on the following dates:
- Jan. 10
- Feb. 7
- March 3
- April 10
Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC
Suite 5600
300 Halket St.
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Classes are $20 and you must register by clicking here or calling 412-802-8299.
2012 classes
Cooking Demonstration
Judith Balk, MD, Guest Chef
Thursday, January 26
Demonstration: 5 to 7 p.m.
Magee-Womens Hosptial of UPMC, Room 2131
Cost: free, but space is limited to 10 people.
Sponsored by: Bariatric Lifestyle Program & Dietary Department at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC.
Exercise Classes
Fridays from 6 to 7 p.m.
Magee-Womens Hosptial of UPMC, Room 2131
Cost: $30 per month, or $10 per class.
For more information, please call 412-641-3632.
Sponsored by: Bariatric Lifestyle Program at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC.