9

YEARS IN PARTNERSHIP

1000+

PATIENTS SUPPORTED

100%

OHIP COVERED

Considering Bariatric Surgery?

Learn more about our parnership with the Ottawa Hospital and if you qualify‍

Since 2016 the Bariatric Medical Institute has partnered with The Ottawa Hospital to provide comprehensive pre- and post-surgical care, a service that is fully covered by the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long Term Care. From your first assessment to your final follow-up, our medical doctors, registered dietitians, and trainers work alongside The Ottawa Hospital surgeons to help you achieve safe, lasting results.

Over the past 9 years, we've supported more than 1,000patients through their bariatric surgery journey. Our partnership with The Ottawa Hospital reflects a shared commitment to evidence-based care, comprehensive support, and long-term success.

‍Our Team:
• Led by Dr. Yoni Freedhoff and a team of medical doctors specializing in obesity medicine
• Registered dietitians trained in behavioral support and medical nutrition therapy
• Personal trainers specializing in pre- and post-surgical movement
• Psychology referrals when needed

Do I qualify for Bariatric Surgery

To qualify for bariatric surgery you need to:

• Be 18 years or older
• Have a body mass index of 40 kg/m² or higher

You also may qualify if your body mass index is 35 kg/m² or higher and you are living with at least one of the following:

• Heartburn
• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Sleep apnea

How do I get started

Just click the Get Started button below and fill in the required information. The team at the Ottawa Hospital will review it and determine the best pathway for your care. Depending on your medical needs, you may be connected with our team for comprehensive pre- and post-surgical support, or you may work directly with TOH's surgical program

Get Started

What to Expect: Your Bariatric Surgery Journey with BMI

Phase 1: Pre-Surgical Preparation (4-8 months)
‍You'll meet with our team to ensure you're medically readyand set up for success: Medical doctors confirm your safety for surgery andmanage any health conditions Registered dietitians help you develop eating habitsthat protect against weight regain (one in four patients regain weight withoutproper preparation) Personal trainers (optional) work with you onmovement goals and home programs Psychological assessment if needed to address anybehavioral or mental health considerations We'll also complete any necessary blood work, imaging, andtesting to make sure surgery is safe for you.

‍Phase 2: Surgical Consultation & SurgeryOnce you're medically cleared and ready from both a medicaland nutrition/behavioral standpoint, you'll meet with TOH surgeons at the CivicCampus to discuss which procedure is right for you:
Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG): Removes about 90%of your stomach, creating a smaller, banana-shaped stomach.
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB): Creates a smallstomach pouch and reroutes your intestinesDuodenal Switch (DS): A two-stage procedure (lesscommon, higher nutritional risk) Your surgeon will prescribe a pre-surgical liquid diet(Medimeal) for 3+ weeks to prepare your liver for surgery.

‍Phase 3: Post-Surgical Recovery & SupportAfter surgery, you'll return to BMI for ongoing support as your body adjusts. Our dietitians and medical team help you:
• Manage your recovery safely • Address any challenges that come up along the way
• Navigate nutritional changes and supplementation • Build sustainable habits that support long-term success

Not ready for Surgery?

We can help you explore your other options

Not everyone who qualifies for surgery chooses it. If you're looking for medical weight management support without surgery, BMI offers a22-week program combining behavioural coaching, medical nutrition therapy, and pharmacological support when appropriate.

Click here to learn more about our Adult Weight Management Program.

Please note that while your consult is fully covered by OHIP, should you wish to participate in the 22-week program, there are fees for the non-OHIP covered services.

Ready to get started?

Complete The Ottawa Hospital's form to begin your assessment. You'll hear back about next steps and whether you qualify for surgical or medical weight management.

Get Started

Life is Good!

Utilizing the latest research, our staff of health professionals work with you one-on-one to guide you using the most effective methods of weight management

9

1000+

100%

Considering Bariatric Surgery?

Do I qualify for Bariatric Surgery

How do I get started

What to Expect: Your Bariatric Surgery Journey with BMI

Not ready for Surgery?

Ready to get started?

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