Discover the inspiring journey of Dr. Matthew Ricks as he shares his path from rural roots to transforming lives through weight loss surgeries. In this episode, Dr. Ricks walks us through the intricacies of sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass, and duodenal switch, detailing how these procedures help patients achieve true satiety and effective weight loss. Learn about the strict criteria for candidates, including the pivotal roles of BMI and comorbidities such as diabetes and heart disease, and understand the profound impact these surgeries have on patients who have exhausted traditional methods.
Join us as we delve into Dr. Ricks' vast experience, performing over 5,000 surgeries alongside his esteemed colleague, Dr. Darin Minkin. We explore the robust support system they offer, featuring dieticians, psychologists, and nurses, as well as insights into the debated effectiveness of medications like Ozempic. Beyond the operating room, get a glimpse into Dr. Ricks' personal life, from his love of football and occasional golf to his devotion as a father of five. We also touch on the vibrant regional sports loyalties in Utah and the burgeoning community of St. George, underscoring the dedication of medical professionals in enhancing community health. Don't miss this heartfelt conversation highlighting the life-changing work of bariatric surgeons.