Frequently Asked Questions
Why consider weight loss surgery?
Obesity increases your risk of potentially life-threatening diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. These diseases may make normal daily activities difficult, can be expensive to treat and could significantly decrease life expectancy.
Weight loss surgery is the most effective method for helping people who have been unsuccessful at losing weight using diet and exercise alone. Bariatric surgery enables patients to lose a significant amount of weight and maintain that loss over the long term.
If you are 50 to 100 percent over your ideal body weight, diet and exercise have only a five percent success rate for long term weight loss. Our program is a proven way to not just help you succeed at weight loss, but live a healthier more active life.
Watch this video to learn more.
Is bariatric surgery the right choice for you?
Undergoing weight loss surgery is a major decision that will permanently alter your life. To be successful, you must be prepared to make permanent changes to many of your present behaviors. People who make these lifestyle changes achieve significant weight loss and experience better health, greater mobility and improved self-esteem and self-confidence.
Find out if you are a candidate for weight loss surgery.
How much weight can you expect to lose?
Your final weight loss depends on multiple factors including your starting weight, the current state of your health and your ability to adhere to lifestyle changes. The more effort you put in, the more successful you will be at achieving and maintaining optimal weight loss.
Which surgery is better for me?
This is a common question. Each surgical approach has different weight loss profiles and the amount of data available on long term weight loss varies. Many factors go into making a decision about which surgery is best suited for you. Your preferences and goals for weight and restoration of health are important factors in helping you make the correct decision. During your initial consultation, we would be happy to discuss all surgery options with you in more detail and recommend the best option for your individual health needs.
What if surgery doesn't work?
If you are committed to making it work, our dedicated bariatric program is proven to work. We help you physically and emotionally prepare for the changes before and after surgery. We don't just give you a new body; we give you the tools to make your new body realistic, sustainable and enjoyable.
How long does the program last?
Technically, for one year after your surgery, you will have a number of follow-up appointments with your surgeon, nurse and dietitian. Plus, we offer individual and group support with others on the weight loss journey. And, even as years pass and you meet goals, we'll still be here when you need us.
How long does surgery take? How long am I in the hospital?
Surgery takes about two hours for the average patient, but some procedures may take longer. For most people, the average hospital stay is two days.
Will I have a scar?
Most patients have minimally-invasive surgery, which can be performed through as few as one or several quarter-inch incisions on your abdomen. In some cases, patient-specific risks do require the use of standard open surgery.
How long will I be out of work?
While most patients go back to work within two weeks, the actual length of time will be determined by your surgeon. There are also some restrictions that apply.
Will I have to eat special food?
After your body has time to adjust to the surgical changes, you can look forward to eating normal healthy everyday foods again. The difference? You'll approach food with the knowledge to make better choices about what and how much food you eat.
Watch this video to learn more.
If my health insurance doesn't cover surgery, can I self-pay?
Yes. For those who must private-pay or self-pay, the cost of bariatric surgery can be as low as $14,300. 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. There are third-party options for affordable financing. Or, rather than investing in new furniture or a vacation this year, consider investing that money in something far more important: you.
If your health insurance does not cover your surgery, payments are tax deductible since these operations are deemed medically necessary. In the year you finance or pay cash for your weight loss surgery, you may be eligible to receive thousands of dollars back in potential tax savings. IRS Publication 502 states you can deduct your medical expenses when they total more than 7.5% of your Adjusted Gross Income. Please consult your tax advisor to learn more about this before making any financial decisions.
How can I get started?
Our team is ready to answer any questions you may have, please give us a call at (850) 626-5121. We look forward to your new beginning!