Each year weight loss surgery is performed on numerous people who weigh in over 600 pounds. My 600 Pound Life airs on the TLC channel and it follows the year long journey of various people in their attempt to lose weight and qualify for weight loss surgery. Each episode is 2 hours long and begins with narration from the person who is trying to lose weight. (Viewer discretion is advised as graphic procedures are sometimes showed.)

The series stars Dr. Nowzaradan Younan. Dr. Now is a weight loss surgeon who works with each person on a plan to lose weight with the eventual goal of qualifying for weight loss surgery. Generally Dr. Now has the patient come to his office in Houston, Texas for an initial meeting and weigh-in. If the patient is immobile, Dr. Now will have a medical transport service come and pick the person up.

At the initial meeting, Dr. Now sets an initial weight loss goal and a restricted diet. At the subsequent follow up appointment, if the patient has hit the weight loss goal, Dr. Now may approve him or her for weight loss surgery. If the person doesn't hit the initial target, Dr. Now usually gives them another chance and has them come back in another month.

If the patient is immobile, then Dr. Now sets the patient up with physical therapy. If the person is deathly ill, Dr. Now will generally admit the patient to the hospital to better manage his or her weight loss. If and when the weight loss surgery is approved, Dr. Now performs the procedure. After the procedure, Dr. Now sends the patient home with a plan to continue to lose weight. If there are other issues in play, Dr. Now will also arrange for psychotherapy.

It's inspiring to see the courage that so many people display in their quest to lose weight and get healthy. Conversely, some patients cheat on their diets, become resentful, and aren't approved for weight loss surgery. Although Dr. Now tries many tactics and provides many opportunities, every person isn't ready because it's so hard.

You can catch up on past episodes on TLC on Demand or the TLC Go app.