About Weight Loss Surgery

Do you have a question about what you can expect as you embark on your weight-loss journey at Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center?

Our expert team of surgeons and staff answer some of the most common questions about weight loss surgery in the video clips below.

Dr. Strand

David A. Strand, MD physician bio What can I expect after having surgery? How did you get interested in Bariatrics? What is the patient experience and what can I expect? What is the surgical procedure? What kinds of lifestyle changes can I expect?

Dr. Thaemert

Bradley C. Thaemert, MD physician bio Tell me about my follow up. How much can I expect to lose? What will my expected lifestyle changes be? What should I know about obesity? What should I expect at my inital consult? What kind of surgery do you do? How do I know if I am a candidate for this surgery?

Darcie Schmidt

Darcie Schmidt, RN, RSN, CBN

• How do I get more information about this surgery?
• Are there other options if my insurance company will not cover this procedure?
• How do I start the process to get weight loss surgery?
• Is there support after I've had surgery?
• What if I'm anxious about this surgery?

Melanie Rosa

Melanie Rosa, LPN

• How long until surgery is scheduled?
• What do I need to bring?

Melissa Townsend

Melissa Townsend, RD

• Are there foods I have to avoid after weight loss surgery?
• How long will I have to follow food rules?
• How much food will I be able to eat at one time? Will that change over time?
• What do I do when I go out to eat?
• What will I eat the 1st week?
• Will I feel full or will I still feel hungry?

Bariatric Surgery and Weight Loss Team

The bariatric program at Avera McKennan includes many different team members: physicians, nurses, dieticians, pharmacists, physical therapists/exercise professionals, psychologists, and the bariatric coordinator. All of these team members work together to assist patients in long-term weight loss success. Avera McKennan is a Level 1B Accredited Bariatric Center, Adult and Pediatric by the American College of Surgeons.