Bariatric (Weight Loss) Surgery for Teens Is Not a Quick Fix

First published September 2013
Updated March 2026

The vast attention on the obesity epidemic in the U.S. is nothing less than staggering. Obesity and its related illnesses (including high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, liver problems and impaired quality of life to name a few) – is a considered one of the most significant and preventable causes of death worldwide, and it’s increasing in adults and children.

Here in Ohio, 16.6% of children are obese. Nationally, 21% of children and adolescents ages 2-19 years old are obese, and 9% of adolescents from 12-19 years old are considered severely obese. (National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2021-2023)

In an effort to fight obesity, the Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition at Nationwide Children’s Hospital has developed a number of comprehensive family-based approaches to weight management. The Center uses a multidisciplinary approach to address the treatment needs of children and adolescents with severe forms of obesity. One of these options is bariatric or weight loss surgery, Since 2004, Nationwide Children’s we have offered various bariatric surgery procedures including Gastric Sleeve and Gastric Bypass.

As a surgeon who specializes in the treatment of severe childhood obesity, it has always been apparent that surgical weight loss procedures, are not for everyone. Despite many public misconceptions, bariatric surgery is not a cosmetic procedure or “quick fix” but rather, presents a safe and effective option for individuals who have been unable to maintain weight loss and control their health through dieting, exercise and behavior modifications alone.

To qualify for bariatric surgery, patients must be at least 100 pounds over their ideal body weight and undergo a complete medical evaluation. This includes a physical exam, nutrition, activity and social work evaluations and psychological testing. This process can take 6 months or more.

As with any surgery, there are risks. But the benefits – weight loss, improvement in obesity-related conditions – are significant. In my experience, in many cases, bariatric surgery is a life saver.