Am I a candidate for weight loss surgery?
Our Program uses the NIH guidelines to determine whether a person is a potential candidate for surgery.
- A body mass index (BMI) 40 or greater, or those with a BMI between 35 and 40 with at least one obesity-related health condition, such as type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, or another high-risk condition that requires medical treatment.
- 100 pounds overweight
- Documented ineffective weight loss attempts in the past
Why do some people have weight loss surgery instead of using traditional weight loss measures of diet and exercise alone?
When obesity becomes so severe that it has negative effect on the person's health and quality of life, they may look to proven method of weight loss such as surgery. While most morbidly obese people are able to lose weight in the short term, the percentage of people that successfully keep the weight off over two years is less than five percent. Bariatric surgery has been shown to produce long term weight loss, and improve or resolve numerous health risks such as hypertension diabetes, sleep apnea, and elevated lipid levels.
How will I need to change the way I eat after surgery?
Diet changes are dependent on each procedure. However, all surgeries will result in a decrease caloric intake resulting in weight loss. An individualized meal plan will be developed by a registered dietitian for each patient to maximize healthy weight loss.
Will my insurance cover the surgery?
Health insurance coverage depends on many things and each insurance plan is different. Please call the office for more information, at 337-289-8484
Do I have to exercise after surgery?
Yes. You will be given information on a variety of exercises that will help to maximize your weight loss and improve your overall health.
Do I take vitamins forever?
Yes. You will need to take a multiple vitamin and calcium daily for the remainder of your life after surgery. You may also need to take additional supplements depending upon the operation you choose.
How long will I need to be out of work after weight loss surgery?
Most patients are well enough to return to work within two weeks of surgery, but you will discuss your job requirements with the surgeon and base your return to work date accordingly.
How much weight loss can I expect after weight loss surgery?
National statistics state that Lap Band patients typically lose 45-55% of excess body weight, while Roux-en-Y and Sleeve Gastrectomy surgery offers 70-75% loss if excess body weight.
What does your program do to ensure success?
Our bariatric program believes that knowledgeable and well trained health care providers as well as proper patient selection and patient education are the keys to success and good outcomes.
What if I want to get pregnant after weight loss surgery?
Pregnancy after weight loss surgery is safe. We strongly suggest that you wait at least 18 months after surgery to have a child. Once you conceive please make sure your obstetrician is aware that you had weight loss surgery as well as notifying your bariatric team that you are pregnant.
Is there an age limit for weight loss surgery?
There is no definite age limit, as long as you are physically able to withstand an operation and you fulfill the other criteria for surgery.
