Frequently Asked Questions

There are specific insurance requirements for weight loss surgery. The National Institutes of Health set criteria to determine who will qualify for weight loss surgery. Patients with a BMI greater than 40 qualify for surgery, and patients with a BMI from 35-39.9 with weight related health conditions may also qualify for surgery. Patients also have had to try losing weight by other methods before pursuing surgery.

We have surgeons who perform the Sleeve Gastrectomy and the Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass. Our surgeons will also perform revisions and conversions of prior weight loss surgery as necessary.

Laparoscopic surgery involves small incisions. This makes it a less invasive procedure. It limits certain complications such as wound infections and hernias. It can also shorten the hospital stay and get you back to your usual activities faster.

You can get started by attending any of our free seminars. Our seminars will give you a better understanding of your options. If you are ready to learn more about weight loss surgery, register for one of our free weight loss seminars.

The surgeon’s office will contact you for your initial appointment. Preparation for surgery includes: surgeon evaluation, dietitian evaluation and classes, medical weight management, behavioral evaluation, Fitness 101 classes, pre- and post-support groups (find dates and times on our website), and clearances from cardiac, pulmonary, diabetes and other specialties if needed.

Many insurance companies cover weight loss surgery, but insurance coverage depends on your insurance plan. We highly recommend contacting your insurance provider to verify your bariatric surgery coverage and any plan limitations.

Every person is different and responds differently to treatment. Weight loss surgery is a tool to help you lose weight. No matter which procedure a person chooses, each of them requires a lifestyle change in order to be successful. This includes following a healthy diet, exercising regularly, following-up regularly with a weight loss provider, attending support group meetings, and one-on-one psychological support as needed. There have been cases where patients do not lose the amount of weight they expected or have gained some of their weight back. Typically, a person’s success is directly related to their commitment to the post-surgical program and recommendations. The surgical process is only part of the overall equation. It is the long-term lifestyle changes that keep patients at a healthy weight. We have a dedicated team to help you stay committed to your new lifestyle.

Yes. When you come in to your consultation, you will meet with one of our surgeons and our patient navigator. Your patient navigator will let you know what you need to complete before surgery.

Absolutely. We encourage you to bring a support person with you. Having weight loss surgery requires a lifestyle change, so having a support person over 18 years old with you through the process is very helpful. Please, no children.

We have support groups monthly. These are helpful for patients both before and after surgery. You are welcome to bring a friend or support person with you to these groups.

You will meet with a registered dietitian and attend education classes prior to surgery. The special diets will be discussed during these visits. Every patient follows a diet progression of liquid, pureed, soft and solid foods

Every person’s journey is different. We will provide you with tools, resources and education to help make sure that your journey is comfortable and successful.

Post-surgical pain is to be expected. Our care teams will individualize your pain management based on your post-surgical needs.

All procedures require a lifetime vitamin supplementation. Our dietitians will help customize your vitamin regimen.