Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Why consider weight loss surgery?
Answer: When diet and exercise alone have proven unsuccessful, weight loss surgery is the most effective method. Bariatric surgery enables patients to lose significant weight and maintain that loss long-term. It also reduces the risks of life-threatening conditions like diabetes and hypertension. And if you are 50 to 100% over your ideal body weight, diet and exercise alone only have a 5% success rate for long-term weight loss. Our program is proven to help you succeed at weight loss and live a healthier, more active life.
Question: Is bariatric surgery the right choice for you?
Answer: Undergoing weight loss surgery isn’t a decision you should take lightly—it will be a permanent transformation. You must be committed to lifestyle changes to be successful. That commitment will help you achieve significant weight loss and experience better health, greater mobility and improved confidence.
Question: How much weight can you expect to lose?
Answer: Final weight loss depends on many factors, including your starting weight, your current health and your commitment to lifestyle changes. If you stay motivated and put in the effort, the more likely it is you will achieve and maintain weight loss.
Question: What if surgery doesn’t work?
Answer: Our dedicated bariatric program is proven to work if you are committed to the plan. We physically and emotionally prepare you for lifestyle changes before and after surgery. We don’t just give you a new body. We also give you realistic, sustainable and enjoyable lifestyle goals.
Question: How long does the program last?
Answer: The year following your surgery, you will have several follow-up appointments with your surgeon, dietitian and other members of the bariatric team. We also encourage you to attend our support group meetings to gain insight and inspiration from weight loss surgery patients.
Question: How long will I be in the hospital?
Answer: Weight loss surgery typically requires you to spend at least one night in the hospital, but the length of your stay will depend on the type of procedure you have and your recovery.
Question: Will I have a scar?
Answer: Most patients have minimally-invasive surgery, such as laparoscopy. This can be performed through one or several quarter-inch incisions in the abdomen. Many scars fade and become very faint to nearly invisible over time. However, some patient-specific risks still require the use of standard open surgery.
Question: How long will I be out of work?
Answer: While most patients go back to work within two weeks, the actual length of time will be determined by your surgeon. Some restrictions apply.
Question: Will I have to eat special food?
Answer: You will likely be on a liquid diet for a few days to a few weeks, slowly adding in soft and pureed foods before returning to more regular food.
Question: If my health insurance doesn’t cover surgery, can I self-pay?
Answer: Yes. If you think the surgery could benefit your life but are concerned about affordability, we encourage you to explore your financial options before giving up. We partner with a program called MDSave, a third-party option for affordable financing.
For more information, please get in touch with us at (352) 513-4783.