Nearly one in three adults in Arizona is dealing with obesity, a condition that contributes $10.2 billion every year to our state’s healthcare costs. But what many fail to realize is that behind the numbers are real people. People who feel frustrated after another failed diet, avoid social events, or feel invisible in their own lives.
At Pivot Weight Loss, we hear you and have committed ourselves to helping you rebuild your life. As the best medical weight loss center for Arizona residents, we offer real, lasting solutions through surgical and non-surgical programs.
With weight loss clinics in Tucson, Phoenix, Mesa, Tempe, Sedona, Surprise, and Queen Creek, we’re here to help you find what actually works for your body and your life.
We understand this journey is personal. Let us show you the comprehensive support you’ve been searching for.
Schedule Your Consultation & Find Your PathHope, Support, and Lasting Results Through Bariatric Surgery in Arizona
For many people, trying to lose weight feels like an endless uphill battle. Diets fail, exercise routines fall short, and the frustration can take a toll on your confidence and overall health.
That’s why bariatric surgery can be life-changing.
Bariatric surgery has an 80% long-term success rate for keeping weight off beyond five years. Compare that to the 6% success rate with diet and exercise alone, and you can see why so many people are exploring medical weight loss in Phoenix.
Did You Know?
A major NIH-supported study tracking patients for 7 to 12 years found:
- 54% of those who had bariatric surgery maintained blood sugar levels below the diabetic range, compared to just 27% relying on medications and lifestyle changes.
- 18% achieved complete diabetes remission, versus only 6% in the non-surgical group.
But at Pivot, you’re getting way more than a surgical procedure. You’re getting a complete care solution that’s backed by science, powered by technology, and most importantly, overseen by people who genuinely care about your success.
Our team of bariatric surgeons has more than 35 years of combined experience helping people throughout Arizona transform their lives. Dr. John DeBarros and Dr. Rob Schuster have performed thousands of successful procedures, and they’re known for bringing both expertise and innovation to every patient’s care.
Multiple Surgical Options Tailored to You
Every body is different. This is why we offer a range of proven bariatric procedures to fit your unique needs:
- Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy: Removes 80-90% of the stomach, creating a smaller stomach that helps you feel full faster while reducing hunger hormones.
- Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y): Creates a smaller stomach pouch and bypasses part of the small intestine to limit both food intake and calorie absorption.
- Adjustable Gastric Banding: A minimally invasive, reversible option that places an adjustable band around the upper stomach to help you feel full sooner.
- SADI-S (Single Anastomosis Duodenal Switch): A less invasive version of the traditional duodenal switch that combines stomach reduction with intestinal bypass for significant weight loss.
- SASI Bypass: Can be performed as a standalone procedure or after sleeve gastrectomy to promote additional weight loss and reduce gastric reflux.
We understand that choosing surgery can feel overwhelming, and it’s normal to be scared, whether it’s fear of the procedure, judgment, cost, or even feeling “too late.” Our surgeons and care team are here to listen, guide, and reassure you. We take the time to explain each option clearly, help you understand the risks and benefits, and support you so that every decision feels safe, informed, and right for you.
The Pivot Difference: Your Complete Support System
Bariatric surgery is often the most effective way to address severe obesity and maintain long-term weight loss. But it’s just one part of the journey.
At Pivot, what truly sets us apart as the best medical weight loss center in Arizona is the full support we provide every step of the way.
- Before You Even Have Your Procedure: You’ll go through a straightforward, informative education program that helps you make the right decision for you. Bonus: it can actually speed up insurance approvals.
- Your Personalized Ongoing Support: We’ll build a supporting team around you who will ensure tracking your progress. Food journal, surgery prep checklist, guidelines, resources. We’ll provide them to keep you motivated and on track.
- One-on-One Attention When You Need It: You’ll work directly with our surgeons, medical assistants, and certified bariatric dietitians to create a weight loss plan that fits your actual lifestyle. Not some cookie-cutter approach; something tailored specifically to you.
- A Community That Gets It: Through I-Pivot, you can connect with others who understand exactly what you’re going through. Our community is moderated by surgeons, dietitians, and guest experts, and we even organize local meet-ups so you can build real friendships.
Quick Fact
Research shows that bariatric surgery leads to significant positive improvements in quality of life, with patients reporting better physical functioning, reduced pain, improved mobility, and enhanced emotional well-being after their procedure.
Costs Are The Last Of Your Worries With Our Flexible Payment Options
We know cost is a real concern. You’re wondering whether your insurance will cover this, or how you’ll afford it if it doesn’t. These questions are normal, and we hear them every single day.
Pivot works with multiple insurance companies, financing partners, and workplace wellness programs to make treatment accessible. If you’re an employee from one of our 350+ partner companies, you may even be eligible for free bariatric surgery.
Whichever payment method you’re using, we’ll help you figure out your options. Money shouldn’t be the reason you don’t get the help you need.
We’ve Seen Plenty of Lives Change for the Better
Bariatric surgery is about reclaiming your health, confidence, and joy. Research shows that people who undergo surgery lose 60–70% of their excess weight, and the ripple effects touch nearly every part of life.
Many of our patients see their type 2 diabetes improve or completely resolve. Same with high blood pressure and high cholesterol. The long-term success rate for bariatric surgery ranges from 68% to 74%, with benefits lasting up to 20 years.
At Pivot, we’ve combined proven science with modern technology and genuinely personalized care. Your care doesn’t end after surgery. We provide ongoing follow-ups, nutrition guidance, and support even after the process, so you never feel like we left you hanging.
At the end of the day, this is your journey. We’re just the stepping stones towards your best path forward.
Ready to Take the First Step Toward a Healthier You?
We know how overwhelming it can feel to face weight-loss challenges, and we’re proud of you for being brave. If you’d like to know more about Pivot’s surgical and medical weight loss in Phoenix, let’s start the conversation.
Take our 60-second assessment to see if you’re a candidate for weight-loss surgery, or contact us to schedule your consultation. Let’s transform your future together.
Frequently Asked Questions
The exact pace varies per person. Most patients notice weight loss within the first few weeks, and it often accelerates over the first 3–6 months.
Bariatric surgery can help patients lose 60–70% of their weight over the first year. At Pivot, we focus on long-term results, so we don’t just help you lose weight but maintain it for years to come.
Like any surgery, you can expect some discomfort for the first 24–72 hours, but it typically improves quickly. Our surgeons use advanced techniques to minimize pain, and our care team supports you with recovery guidance and pain management so you can focus on healing and getting back to your life.
There are no permanent bans, but your diet will change to support healing and long-term success. Pivot’s dietitians guide you on portion sizes, protein intake, and nutrient-rich foods. While you may need to limit high-sugar, high-fat, or carbonated foods, most patients can still enjoy favorites like lean meats, fruits, vegetables, and even occasional treats in moderation.
Many employer insurance plans do cover bariatric surgery. Pivot’s team helps you navigate insurance requirements and options, so you can understand your benefits and make informed choices. Talk to one of our experts today.
Pivot combines medical expertise, personalized care, and modern tools to guide every step of your weight-loss journey. With multiple locations, an experienced surgical team, supportive dietitians, and a strong community, we create a program designed for real life.
Absolutely. Pivot offers medically supervised non-surgical programs that include coaching, nutrition guidance, and modern tools to help you reach your goals safely and effectively, whether or not surgery is part of your plan.
About the Author
Dr. John DeBarros is a board-certified bariatric surgeon with more than 25 years of experience and thousands of successful bariatric procedures performed, helping patients across Arizona achieve long-term metabolic health and sustainable weight loss.
