Frequently Asked Questions

Drs. Andrew Averbach, Isam Hamdallah and Kuldeep Singh are the surgeons who perform bariatric surgery at Saint Agnes Hospital. Together, our highly experienced surgeons have performed more bariatric surgeries than any other hospital in Maryland, helping their patients to lose more than 400,000 pounds.

Obesity brings with it a plethora of health issues that, if left untreated, will substantially shorten life expectancy. The following criteria are characteristic of a morbidly obese individual and could qualify you for weight-loss surgery: (1) BMI (Body Mass Index) of over 40, (2) BMI of 35-40 accompanied by significant life-threatening medical conditions such as type II diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and severe sleep apnea, (3) Inability to maintain a healthy body weight after numerous attempts to achieve weight loss with diet, exercise, medication, hypnosis, therapy, (4) or a combination of methods. It’s important to note that weight-loss surgery is not the answer for everyone who suffers from obesity. The operation is an elective procedure, so it’s imperative that you are well informed on the potential risks and benefits involved. Also, the surgery is not a guarantee to produce and maintain long-term weight loss. It’s only the beginning of a lifelong commitment to healthy living that is essential if you are to succeed. Even prior to your operation, you will begin the process of making important lifestyle and behavior changes to increase your chances of experiencing lasting weight loss and continued good health.

Psychological evaluations are a recommendation of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, as well as most insurance companies. This helps evaluate your emotional health and preparedness for surgery. At Saint Agnes, we will not operate on patients who do not fill this requirement.

We require all patients see one of our bariatric dietitians before their procedures, as well as attend nutrition classes. Your diet will change dramatically after surgery, and these specialized dietitians will give you the information and the tools to help make your surgery successful.

Your length of stay is determined by how well you’re progressing after surgery. Gastric band patients may go home the same day or early the next day, while sleeve and bypass patients typically stay up to two nights.

Your surgeon must medically supervise any surgical weight-loss procedure. We see our patients frequently after surgery to monitor your progress. After your weight-loss goals are met, we will see you once per year for the rest of your life.