Obesity levels continue to climb in America, so many are turning to weight loss surgery for help. For a lot of people surgery is their last resort to stay alive. So all this month we're taking an in-depth look into Weight Loss Surgery beginning with Gastric Bypass.

 5 years ago Registered Nurse Karin Lerew turned to weight loss surgery for help. Karin chose Gastric Bypass and since the surgery, has lost 150 lbs.

All weight loss procedures, also include un-believable health benefits! But as Bariatric Surgeon Doctor Kenneth Warnock explains gastric bypass is more successful long term, with extra advantages.  That's because the size of your stomach is dramatically reduced.

"It also involves re routing a portion of intestinal track that results in change in intestinal hormones." said Doctor Kenneth Warnock.

 And be prepared to say goodbye to rich or greasy foods, Warnock says you won't be able to tolerate them.

"For instance if they were incline to eat cheese cake, ice cream, or something greasy because of the side effects they are going to say I don't think I'll have that today. So it gives them extra control many patients feel they need." said Warnock.

 That's because most people are emotional eaters, so the surgery helps them learn to eat food for what it's intended.

"And you learn to deal with things because foods not there to put a band-aid on it for ya." said Karin Lerew.

Doctor Warnock says the surgery is a life long commitment to change, but the outcome often means a longer, happier and healthier life.

The cost of gastric bypass is around $25,000.  Most medical insurance companies do help pay for the procedure, so be sure to contact your provider.