Why Is MIIS Weight Loss Institute Different

Center of Excellence

We are the only MBSAQIP program in St. Petersburg. This means that not only are our clinical outcomes ranked among the top in the nation, but we have proven our dedication to safe, top quality patient care over the years. To earn this designation, one must show consistent high standards of care, alongside documented positive patient outcomes and prove commitment to high quality patient care- all of which and more we are proud to offer here at MIIS WLI.

The Most Experience

We are the most experienced center in the region. Dr. Huguet established our bariatric program in 2007 when he began practicing in St. Petersburg. When it comes to your health- you want to choose the best, and we have the experience to help you reach and potentially even surpass your goals.

The BEST Outcomes

We compared our outcomes to the Top Hospitals Median Rate Benchmark and found these results.

Patient Support

We offer the most comprehensive preoperative and postoperative patient support in the region.

Preparation for Surgery: Pre-education Is the Key to Success

• A Bariatric Patient Advocate offering concierge-style support to order testing and guide patients through their journey.
• Our Unique Bariatric Buddy Mentorship Program matching a mentor to patients who need support in their journey.
• A Bariatric Dietitian to help identify nutrition and lifestyle changes prior to surgery. The dietitian will provide a Nutrition Advancement Guide book, details on your post-surgery diet, daily nutrition goals, vitamin and mineral recommendations, recipes, and sample menus.

WLI Success After Surgery Program

• Ongoing support after surgery: Bariatric surgery is not a quick fix or magic bullet. Obesity should be viewed as a chronic relapsing medical condition or addiction. In order to succeed, patients need continued support and accountability forever.
• Body Fat Composition Analysis: the INBODY Scanner provides body composition analysis to determine the amount of fat and muscle. We track a patient’s body fat composition before and after surgery to provide actionable data to guide patients.
• Our Exercise Physiologist teaches patients what exercises they can safely do as a component of an entire lifestyle change. We specialize in teaching patients with limitations due to pain and arthritis.
• Coaching: Accountability is the key to success for any goal. We provide accountability, coaching, and support for follow-up care. We track your weight and celebrate your wins!
• Our Certified bariatric medicine specialist (Kelly Range, RN)  provides routine follow-up visits to monitor progress and provide support. We provide support and accountability after surgery with routine follow-up visits 5 times in the first year and annually (or more frequently if needed).
• Mental Health Support with a Bariatric Mental Health Practitioner:  permanent weight loss requires mental health support and coaching before and after surgery.
• Rehydration therapy. For patients who need hydration after surgery, we have an IV infusion center with your bariatric team and also offer home IV fluid infusions.