Washington University weight-loss specialists are dedicated to the management of excessive weight. Through the latest therapies, we help patients manage their weight and reduce the medical risks linked with being obese. Weight management is a challenge for everyone. An individualized approach to weight loss is essential because we are all different in genetic make-up, lifestyle, behaviors and physical activity.


Endoscopic nonsurgical weight loss

Take the first step and learn more. This program is offered at Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital. 

The Washington University Endoscopic Nonsurgical Weight Loss Program offers you the latest endoscopic therapies and lifestyle intervention for safe and effective weight loss. Each physician in our program is a board-certified and fellowship-trained gastroenterologist—which means you receive compassionate care from knowledgeable and trustworthy experts. In our 12-month program, we support you every step of the way through monthly registered dietitian visits and monthly lifestyle therapy sessions. Physical therapy evaluations are available for patients with barriers to movement. 

Candidates for nonsurgical weight loss include those who:

  • Are at least 30 pounds overweight
  • Have attempted weight loss through diet and exercise without success
  • Are willing to participate in a medically supervised program, including nutritional counseling and lifestyle behavior coaching
  • Are 22 years old or older
  • Are not pregnant or breastfeeding

Click here to learn more or call 314-362-2652.


Weight-loss (bariatric) surgery

To make an appointment, call 314-454-7224.

Surgery may be an option for people who are severely obese and have been unable to lose weight through diet or other means. Those who have serious obesity-related health problems may also be candidates. Generally, the various procedures—gastric bypass surgery, gastric banding and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy—promote weight loss and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes by limiting food intake. Some also interrupt the digestive process to prevent the absorption of some calories and nutrients. For the surgery to be a success, patients must be committed to lifelong healthy eating and exercise habits, medical follow-up, and supplementation of vitamins and minerals.

In order to qualify for weight loss surgery you must:

  • Be between the ages of 18-70
  • Have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or greater, or a BMI of 35 or greater if you have diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure or sleep apnea; or a BMI of 30 or greater for laparoscopic gastric banding surgery
  • Have attempted a structured dietary weight loss program without success
  • Be evaluated and approved by a behavioral therapist, a dietician and physical therapist
  • Have labs and EKG to evaluate your general condition

Take the first step and sign up for a free informational session. 

Or visit WeightLossSurgery.wustl.edu for more information. 


Medical weight management

To make an appointment, call 314-286-2080.

The Medical Weight Management Program combines the expertise of physicians, psychologists, registered dietitians and physical therapists to provide a comprehensive approach to the medical management of obesity. The program includes medical monitoring, lifestyle modification, nutrition education and increased physical activity—all guided by weight-loss experts.

Michael C. Bennett

Michael C. Bennett, MD

Gastroenterology
Weight Loss

Locations:
Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital – Medical Office Building 4
Center for Advanced Medicine – South County

J. Christopher Eagon

J. Christopher Eagon, MD

Minimally Invasive Surgery
Weight Loss

Locations:
Center for Advanced Medicine Gastrointestinal Center
Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital – Medical Office Building 4

Dayna S. Early

Dayna S. Early, MD

Gastroenterology
Interventional Endoscopy
Weight Loss

Locations:
Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital – Medical Office Building 4
Barnes-Jewish Hospital
Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital
Missouri Baptist Medical Center

Julia Esswein, MD

Weight Loss

Locations:
Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital – Medical Office Building 4

Vladimir M Kushnir

Vladimir M. Kushnir, MD, FASGE, AGAF

Gastroenterology
Interventional Endoscopy
Weight Loss

Locations:
Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital – Medical Office Building 4
Barnes-Jewish Hospital
Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital
Missouri Baptist Medical Center – Building D

Rachel E. Maday

Rachel E. Maday, FNP

Gastroenterology
Interventional Endoscopy
Weight Loss

Locations:
Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital – Medical Office Building 4
Barnes-Jewish Hospital
Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital
Missouri Baptist Medical Center

Susan Robinson Reeds, MD

Susan Robinson Reeds, MD

Weight Loss

Locations:
Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital – Medical Office Building 4