MGH Weight Center

Weight Loss Clinic in Boston, Massachusetts

Call (617) 726-037350 Staniford St, Boston, MA 02114

3 (6 reviews)

About MGH Weight Center

The MGH Weight Center brings the renowned expertise of Massachusetts General Hospital to comprehensive weight management and bariatric care. As part of one of the nation's leading medical institutions, we provide evidence-based treatments backed by advanced research and clinical excellence. Our multidisciplinary team includes bariatric surgeons, endocrinologists, nutritionists, and mental health professionals.

We understand that obesity is a complex medical condition requiring sophisticated treatment approaches. Whether you're considering surgical options, medical management, or comprehensive lifestyle intervention, our team provides the expertise and support needed for long-term success. Our affiliation with Harvard Medical School ensures access to the latest research and treatment innovations.

Services Offered

Our comprehensive services span the full spectrum of weight management, from medical therapy to advanced surgical interventions. We offer non-surgical medical weight loss programs supervised by endocrinologists and obesity medicine specialists, including the latest FDA-approved medications and continuous glucose monitoring for diabetic patients. For patients who qualify, we provide complete bariatric surgery services including gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and revisional procedures. Our surgical team has extensive experience with minimally invasive techniques and complex cases. Pre and post-operative support includes nutritional counseling, psychological evaluation, support groups, and long-term follow-up care. We also offer specialized programs for adolescents and patients with complex medical conditions.

Weight Loss Centers

Treatment Options

Bariatric Surgery Program

Comprehensive surgical weight loss including gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and revisional procedures with extensive support services.

Lifetime follow-up careTypically covered by insurance

Medical Weight Management

Non-surgical program with obesity medicine specialists, including latest medications and continuous monitoring for complex cases.

Ongoing as neededUsually covered by insurance

Adolescent Weight Management

Specialized program for teenagers with obesity, including family involvement and age-appropriate interventions and support.

12-24 months initial programInsurance dependent

What to Expect

Your journey begins with a comprehensive medical evaluation by our multidisciplinary team. We'll assess your medical history, current health status, previous weight loss attempts, and psychosocial factors. For surgical candidates, this includes extensive testing and consultations with multiple specialists.

Based on this evaluation, we'll recommend the most appropriate treatment approach, whether medical management, lifestyle intervention, or surgical options. Pre-operative preparation for surgery includes nutritional counseling, psychological clearance, and medical optimization. Post-treatment follow-up is extensive, with regular appointments to monitor your progress and adjust treatments as needed.

Why Choose MGH Weight Center

The reputation and resources of Massachusetts General Hospital provide unmatched expertise in complex weight management cases. Our academic medical center environment means you have access to the latest research, clinical trials, and innovative treatments often before they're available elsewhere.

Our multidisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of obesity as a medical condition. The experience of our surgical team, combined with our extensive support services, leads to excellent outcomes and safety records. Our affiliation with Harvard Medical School attracts top specialists and ensures evidence-based care.

Insurance & Pricing

Most major insurance plans cover bariatric surgery and medical weight management services when medically necessary. Our financial counselors work with patients to verify coverage and obtain necessary authorizations. We accept Medicare and Medicaid, and have experience working with most commercial insurance providers.

For services not covered by insurance, we offer payment plans and financial assistance programs. Our financial counselors can help you understand costs and explore options to make treatment accessible.

First-Time Patient Tips

Success requires significant lifestyle changes and long-term commitment to follow-up care. Attend all pre-operative appointments and complete required testing and consultations. Follow dietary guidelines strictly, especially before and after surgery. Take recommended supplements and medications exactly as prescribed.

Expect the first year after surgery to involve frequent appointments and ongoing adjustments to your eating habits and lifestyle. Join support groups and maintain regular contact with our nutritionists and mental health professionals. Be patient with the process, sustainable weight loss and health improvements take time, but the long-term benefits are substantial.

Pros & Cons

Advantages

Renowned medical expertise and access to latest research and treatments.
Comprehensive multidisciplinary team approach to complex cases.
Most services covered by insurance when medically necessary.

Things to Consider

Long wait times due to high demand for services.
Can feel impersonal due to large academic medical center environment.

Service Area

The MGH Weight Center serves patients throughout New England and beyond, with many traveling from across the country for our specialized expertise. Located in Boston's Beacon Hill area, we're easily accessible by public transportation and major highways. We coordinate care with referring physicians throughout Massachusetts and have established referral relationships with healthcare providers across the region.

Local Insight

Boston's world-class medical community provides an ideal environment for comprehensive weight management care. The concentration of medical expertise, research institutions, and specialized services in the area supports our ability to provide advanced treatments. We're proud to serve not just local patients but also those who travel from across New England and beyond for our specialized expertise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a referral to be seen at the Weight Center?

Referrals are preferred and often required by insurance, though some services accept self-referrals. Contact us to discuss your specific situation and insurance requirements.

How long is the wait for bariatric surgery?

Wait times vary but typically range from 3-6 months from initial consultation to surgery, depending on insurance requirements and medical clearance needs.

What makes MGH different from other weight loss centers?

Our academic medical center resources, research involvement, and expertise in complex cases set us apart. We handle patients other centers might not accept.

Will my insurance cover bariatric surgery?

Most insurance plans cover bariatric surgery when medical criteria are met. Our financial counselors will verify your specific coverage and help with authorizations.

What if I've had previous weight loss surgery?

We specialize in revisional bariatric surgery and can evaluate whether additional procedures might help. Our experienced team handles complex revision cases regularly.

Do you treat adolescents?

Yes, we have a specialized adolescent bariatric program for teenagers who meet specific criteria. This includes family involvement and age-appropriate approaches.

What support is available after surgery?

Comprehensive lifelong follow-up includes regular appointments, nutritional counseling, support groups, and monitoring for complications or nutritional deficiencies.

Can I participate in research studies?

As an academic medical center, we conduct various research studies. Eligible patients may have opportunities to participate in clinical trials for new treatments.