By: Kelsey Staudinger, DO | General surgery physician and fellowship-trained bariatric surgeon

Kelsey Staudinger, DO

September marked National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, a timely reminder of the growing prevalence of obesity across all age groups. Obesity is a chronic, complex disease that affects nearly 40% of U.S. adults, with rates expected to climb above 50% by 2030.

Beyond the numbers, obesity contributes to a range of health issues, including hypertension, hyperlipidemia, cardiac disease, diabetes, sleep apnea, fatty liver disease, chronic kidney disease, polycystic ovarian syndrome, infertility and several types of cancer. It also affects emotional well-being, quality of life and longevity, underscoring the importance of early, sustained intervention.

Medical management

In recent years, GLP-1 medications have become a popular tool for weight management. While they can be highly effective in improving weight and related conditions, they’re not a long-term solution for everyone. Cost and insurance coverage often present barriers, and side effects such as nausea, constipation or abdominal discomfort can limit use. When discontinued, most patients regain much of the weight they lost.

Surgical options

For patients who meet clinical criteria and have not achieved success through medical therapy or lifestyle changes, bariatric surgery remains an effective and durable treatment option. Using minimally invasive and robotic-assisted techniques, bariatric surgeons can tailor procedures to each patient’s needs.

Surgery impacts hormonal and metabolic pathways, including satiety, insulin resistance and gastric emptying, leading to sustained weight loss, improved comorbidities and better quality of life. Studies consistently demonstrate the safety, long-term success and low complication rates of bariatric surgery for appropriate candidates.

Collaborative care

Obesity management works best when it’s multidisciplinary and patient-centered. Through coordinated efforts in nutrition, physical activity, behavioral health, medications and surgery when indicated, we can help patients achieve lasting improvements in health and confidence.

Your partner for advanced general and bariatric surgery

At HonorHealth General Surgery – Tempe, our experts provide comprehensive weight management options through both surgical and nonsurgical methods for eligible patients.  Our surgeons are also expert general surgeons offering a variety of surgical procedures such as appendix and gallbladder surgery, colorectal surgery, hernia repairs, GERD and hiatal hernia management, among so many more.

We offer same-day or next-day consultation availability and ensure seamless communication with referring physicians and APPs. Our team uses the latest minimally invasive and robotic-assisted techniques to deliver optimal outcomes for our East Valley community.

To refer a patient: Call 602-507-4458 or fax patient information to 602-507-4459.

Our team will contact your patient within 24 to 48 hours to schedule their consultation.