Stephen Rich, MD, Bariatric Surgeon at Ascension St. Thomas Nashville examines a female patient.

Weight loss options in Tennessee

Weight management care teams at Ascension Saint Thomas provide both bariatric surgery and medically supervised weight-loss options.

Our team offers a comprehensive approach to weight loss, working with you to determine the best path for your health and lifestyle. Whether through bariatric surgery or a medically guided weight-loss program, we provide personalized care, including FDA-approved medications, nutritional counseling from registered dietitians, and customized fitness plans. We are committed to supporting you every step of the way to achieve lasting, sustainable results.

Surgical and non-surgical weight-loss options

Bariatric surgery helps with weight loss by reducing the size of your stomach and changing how your body absorbs nutrients. However, not everyone is a candidate for surgery—or you may prefer a non-surgical approach. Our care teams also offer medically supervised weight-loss programs that include nutrition counseling, exercise guidance, and behavioral health support.

Talk with your doctor about your answers to these questions:

  • Does my current weight cause any other chronic health conditions?
  • Can I commit to documented weight-loss efforts required by my insurance plan?
  • Am I willing to re-evaluate my diet and exercise regimen to live a healthier life?

Choosing a weight-loss program—surgical or non-surgical—is a deeply personal, life-changing decision. Our doctors and nurses listen to understand you and your health concerns. Then, we work with you to create a weight-loss plan that’s right for you.

What to expect at a weight-loss consultation

Weight management is a step-by-step process. At Ascension Saint Thomas, we help guide and support you through every step of your journey. Our weight-loss team includes:

  • Surgeons specializing in bariatric procedures
  • Medical weight management specialists providing non-surgical weight-loss solutions
  • Nurse patient navigators to guide you through your options
  • Bariatric dietitians and exercise physiologists to support lifestyle changes
  • Behavioral health professionals to address emotional well-being
  • Insurance coordinators to help explain coverage and pre-approval requirements

Our care team helps you understand both surgical and non-surgical treatment options and the lifestyle changes needed for success.

Types of weight-loss treatments

At Ascension Saint Thomas, we provide a range of weight-loss solutions tailored to your individual needs, including:

  • Surgical weight-loss
    • Roux-en-Y gastric bypass
    • Sleeve gastrectomy
    • Minimally invasive surgical options for shorter recovery times
  • Non-surgical medical weight loss
    • Medical nutrition therapy
    • Physician-guided weight management plans
    • Lifestyle and behavioral counseling

Support before and after your weight-loss journey

Regardless of the weight-loss path you choose, you will have a network of support before, during, and after your journey. Our care teams provide:

  • Follow-up visits with your doctor and care team
  • Bariatric and medical weight-loss support groups
  • Exercise and fitness programs tailored to your abilities
  • Nutrition counseling to support long-term success

Real patient stories

Weight-loss treatment—whether surgical or non-surgical—has helped many people achieve their health goals. Here are real-life success stories from patients who have followed our program.

Weight-loss results may vary depending on the individual. There is no guarantee of specific results.