Frequently Asked Questions
For more information, contact the Phelps Health Weight Loss and Bariatric Center.
What is bariatric surgery?
Bariatric surgery is the medical term for a group of operations that help you lose weight by changing your digestive system. These procedures are also known as metabolic surgery and weight loss surgery.
Certain types of bariatric surgery reduce the size of your stomach, limiting how much you can eat and drink at once, so you feel full sooner. Other weight loss surgeries alter your small intestine, the part of your digestive system that absorbs nutrients and energy from food and drinks, lowering the number of calories your body can absorb. Bariatric surgery can also impact hormones or gut bacteria, which may decrease appetite and hunger, and improve how your body metabolizes fat and uses insulin.
Why should someone consider having bariatric surgery?
Obesity can seriously harm your health. Being 40% overweight doubles your risk of dying prematurely compared to an average-weight person. In the US, about 300,000 deaths each year are linked to obesity. Obesity increases the risk for many serious diseases, including:
- Diabetes
- Cancer
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Heart disease
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Stroke
Studies show that weight loss can return your risk of death from these conditions to normal levels. Within the first 6 months of having weight-loss surgery, patients usually no longer need to take medications for these conditions. In addition, women who were struggling with infertility before surgery may find that conception is possible after surgery.
Obesity is expensive. The George Washington University School of Public Health and Health Services reports that the annual medical costs of being obese are significantly higher than those for average-weight individuals. For women, the cost of obesity is about $4,879 per year, and for men, it’s about $2,646. These costs mostly go toward medical bills for obesity-related illnesses like heart disease and type 2 diabetes, which require expensive medications.
Hidden costs include paying higher prices for clothes, shoes, travel and job-related costs, like lost wages and opportunities. Statistics show that women are disproportionately affected by these job-related costs.
Who is eligible for bariatric surgery?
At the Phelps Health Weight Loss and Bariatric Center, we carefully evaluate all patients for bariatric surgery.
To be eligible, you must be at least 18 years old and morbidly obese (weighing at least 100 pounds over your ideal body weight and having a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or higher). A BMI of 30 or higher may also qualify you if you have certain preexisting health conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure or sleep apnea.
If you are a woman of childbearing age and planning a pregnancy, you must avoid pregnancy for the first 18 months to 2 years after surgery. The rapid weight loss and nutritional deficiencies associated with bariatric surgery make pregnancy dangerous for you and a developing fetus.
A consultation with Dr. Roshan is required to determine your eligibility.
Will insurance cover bariatric surgery?
Many insurance companies now recognize obesity as a substantial health risk and do cover bariatric surgery. Check our list of accepted insurers or contact your insurance provider to find out if bariatric surgery is covered under your insurance plan. For more insurance questions, please call our office.
Can I Choose Self-Pay Even if I Have Insurance Coverage?
Yes! If you want to fast-track the process, we offer several payment plans and financing options to help you live a healthier life.
Self-pay is a great option, for the following reasons:
-You may be eligible for surgery with a lower BMI.
- Skip the wait and avoid any potential insurance hassles. Consider private pay.
What bariatric surgical procedures are performed at Phelps Health?
Phelps Health offers three surgical options:
Gastric bypass: This surgery involves creating a small pouch from the stomach and connecting it directly to the small intestine. Following this procedure, swallowed food will go into this small stomach pouch and then directly into the small intestine, bypassing most of your stomach and the first section of your small intestine. Gastric bypass is one of the most commonly performed types of bariatric surgery. This surgery is typically recommended when diet and exercise haven't worked or when you have serious health problems due to weight.
Gastric sleeve: This procedure is typically performed laparoscopically and involves inserting small instruments through multiple small incisions in the upper abdomen. During this surgery, about 80% of the stomach is removed, leaving a tube-shaped stomach about the size and shape of a banana. The surgery restricts food intake and prompts hormonal changes that aid weight loss and can alleviate conditions like high blood pressure and heart disease.
SADI-S: The SADI-S (Single Anastomosis Duodenal-Ileal Bypass with Sleeve) is a minimally invasive weight loss surgery performed laparoscopically. It involves creating a smaller, tube-like stomach through a sleeve gastrectomy and rerouting a portion of the small intestine to limit calorie and nutrient absorption. This procedure promotes significant weight loss and improves metabolic health, including better diabetes management and relief from other obesity-related conditions.
Which procedure is best for me?
Both gastric bypass and gastric sleeve surgeries are effective and provide long-term weight loss. Typically, gastric bypass results in more rapid weight loss. But gastric sleeve is less invasive and has a lower risk of complications. Our team will help you determine the best procedure based on your medical history.
What is the recovery time following weight-loss surgery?
Most patients recover from surgery quickly without complications. The average hospital stay for gastric bypass patients is typically 1 to 3 nights.
What are the restrictions after surgery?
Postoperative period restrictions include avoiding driving while on pain medication. Depending on your recovery, lifting, pulling or pushing may be restricted. Most patients avoid heavy lifting for the first 2 weeks and gradually resume normal activities as tolerated.
When can I return to normal activity?
Most patients can return to normal activity within 3 to 4 weeks after their surgery.
What is my ideal body weight?
The Phelps Health Weight Loss and Bariatric Center follows the guidelines set out by the BMI scale, which recommends a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9. Use the calculator here to determine your current and ideal BMI.
What support can I expect after my surgery?
Our team provides ongoing support after surgery. Regular follow-up visits during the first year monitor your overall physical and mental health, metabolism and nutritional status.
How much weight loss can be expected?
Most patients lose between 66% and 80% of their excess body weight, with most weight loss occurring 12 to 24 months after bariatric surgery.
What are the dietary restrictions following weight-loss surgery?
After surgery, you will need to follow specific eating guidelines. Our registered dietitians at Phelps Health work directly with bariatric surgery patients to plan healthful, appropriate meals.
Is it possible to gain the weight back after surgery?
Bariatric surgery has an excellent long-term track record for weight loss. However, success depends on your commitment to making lifelong lifestyle and dietary changes.
What are the risks for bariatric surgery?
All surgical procedures have risks, especially for morbidly obese patients. Risks vary by procedure and individual circumstances. Discuss potential risks with your surgeon to make an informed choice.
I’ve considered having weight-loss surgery in Mexico to save money. Is this a good idea?
While surgery in Mexico and outside of the US might be cheaper, it carries potential risks:
- Uncertain qualifications: Mexican bariatric surgery facilities may not have the same strict regulations as the US. The surgeon may not be board-certified or extensively trained in the latest techniques, increasing the risk of complications.
- Follow-up challenges: Bariatric surgery requires long-term support. Getting surgery in Mexico makes ongoing care difficult. You may lack the crucial follow-up appointments and support groups needed for successful weight loss and overall health.