Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bariatric Surgery Right for Me?

Bariatric surgery is not right for everyone. We follow the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery guidelines to determine whether or not surgery may be effective in your particular circumstance. Bariatric surgery is a last resort when diet and exercise have not successfully resolved your obesity problem and may be a last option to control your medical conditions.

Do I Qualify for Bariatric Surgery?

Qualification for bariatric surgery depends on several markers that determine whether or not surgery represents an acceptable risk. Your BMI, any weight related diseases, your general health, the procedure being performed and your willingness and ability to change your life after surgery will all come into play when determining if you qualify. Please see the page dedicated to answering this question more thoroughly “Do you Qualify”

How Do I Pay for Bariatric Surgery?

If you qualify for surgery, the next question is how to pay for the procedure. Most insurance companies offer weight loss surgery in their policies as obesity is a recognized medical illness and disease which can lead to many serious medical conditions. It is recognized by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurances based on your employer health care designations. There are options for paying out of network and cash pay. (see page dedicated to cash pay option)

Why is a pre-operative diet required from some insurance companies?

The purpose of the pre-operative assessment and diet requirements are to make your diet second nature. You have practiced your diet over the entire pre-operative period. You are prepared to read labels and make proper food choices. Secondarily, we have a dietician and a nurse practitioner that can help you make appropriate choices along the way. Some insurances do not require a pre-operative diet.

Can The Procedures Be Reversed?

The gastric band is easily reversed by simply removing the band. While the stomach will return to its original preoperative condition,you will likely regain weight that has been lost.

The gastric bypass can also be reversed although this is a procedure that comes with significant risk and is not recommended. With the creation of the gastric bypass, the vagal nerves are generally cut and lead to a stomach that does not empty appropriately. In my opinion, this should only be performed in extreme circumstances. Vitamin deficiencies and nutrition can be replaced adequately without reversal of the original procedure.

The gastric sleeve cannot be reversed as part of the stomach is removed from the body. However, conversion from the gastric sleeve to the gastric bypass or the duodenal switch is becoming a popular option for established severe reflux or failed weight loss respectively.

What Is The Best Procedure For Me?

It is important that you watch the seminar and discuss with the physician which operation is best for you. There are many different options available because one operation has not been constructed to treat all associated medical conditions.

Gastric bypass may be most suitable for those with significant type 2 diabetes and chronic acid reflux (GERD).

Gastric sleeve may be best for those who have a high operative risk due to extreme BMI or patients with limited comorbid conditions.
Gastric Banding may be appropriate for those at a relatively lower BMI with less severe obesity related diseases.

The decision should be made only after your education and the discussion with the doctor.

COMPLICATIONS :

What Complications Can I Expect?

Ideally, we hope for no complications at all. In fact, over 99% of individuals have no complications post-operatively. However,every surgical procedure comes with risk. After surgery, we will monitor you closely to ensure complications, if any, are caught and treated quickly. The best way you can minimize complications is to follow your pre- and post-op instructions.

What Are The Most Common Complications?

Complications can range from mild blood loss, pain and infection to those that are more severe. Factors such as unexpected anatomy, prior operations, and the patient’s ability to heal go a long way to determining the eventual outcome of surgery.

Will Recovery Hurt?

Any surgical procedure involves a certain amount of pain after surgery and recovery. The incisions from a laparoscopic procedure are small, but they still involve ports being placed through three layers of muscle. Recovery and pain are limited to a few days to a few weeks based on the individual. While you’re in the hospital, our goal is to actively manage any discomfort you may have with appropriate pain medications that will be prescribed for you over a short term basis.

When Should I Call The Office ?

You will receive a postoperative instruction packet that will tell you what is normal after the procedure. You can also visit our When To Call the Office Page. We encourage you to contact our office anytime you suspect something is not right. If you believe you are having an emergency, do not delay in calling 911.