The following questions frequently come up during weight loss consultations. If your question is not answered here, feel free to email us. Our healthcare team will respond to you within a reasonable period of time.
The best way to get an overview of our program is to attend a free comprehensive seminar that covers numerous topics including:
- Am I a candidate?
- Medical treatment for obesity
- Surgical treatment for obesity
- and a specific overview of our individualized program
Q1. What’s the risk of surgery?
A1. Every surgical procedure, from heart bypass to knee replacement, has risk. Therefore, the decision to have weight loss surgery needs to be evaluated against your overall risk. We complete an extensive and comprehensive patient screening process to ensure the medical eligibility of each patient and the appropriateness of the surgery.
Q2. What real chance do obese patients have to lose and keep the weight off?
A2. On average, our patients lose as much as 80 percent of excess weight within one to two years after surgery, and studies show that more than 90 percent of patients in the U.S. who have surgery maintain long-term weight loss.
Q3. Can anyone who is overweight have weight loss surgery?
A3. Patients undergo a thorough screening process to identify whether they are appropriate candidates for surgery. Surgical candidates need to be at least 100 pounds overweight. A more accurate measurement is the Body Mass Index or BMI. Surgical candidates need to have a BMI above 40 or a BMI above 35 with other obesity-related conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. In addition, appropriate candidates are those who have tried and failed other weight loss options, including diet and exercise modification.
Q4. How experienced is the treatment team?
A4. The surgeon is board-certified in General Surgery and Fellowship trained in Bariatric Surgery.
Q5. What type of procedures are performed?
A5. NWI Center for Bariatric Surgery performs Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band, Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy and Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass procedures.
Q6. What should I look for in a treatment center?
A6. Surgery is not a quick fix. Successful long-term maintenance of weight loss requires physical and psychological adjustments to a healthier lifestyle.
Anyone who is considering weight loss surgery should ask these basic questions of the treatment center:
- How thorough is the screening process?
- Will a psychological or therapist, nutritional, exercise and behavioral professional be part of the program to support you before and after surgery?
- Are there patients from that particular practice you can speak with in advance?
- How much pre-operative teaching is involved?
- How much post-operative teaching is involved?
- How many surgeries are being performed monthly?
- How experienced are the surgeons? Is bariatric surgery the core of their practice?
Q7. How long is the surgery, and how many days will I be in the hospital?
A7. The length of stay for each case varies in length. The average hospital stay is two days.
Q8. Is the procedure covered by my insurance?
A8. Bariatric surgery is covered by most insurance companies, including Medicare and Medicaid.
Q9. Are there any limitations after surgery?
A9. Yes, some of them include:
- No lifting greater than 20lb for the first 8 weeks.
- No driving for 1-2 weeks.
- Return to work depends on your job and what it requires.
- All pills must be in liquid, crushable, or chewable form for a short time.
- You will need to take one multi-vitamin, B-complex, and calcium per day for 1-2 years.
- It is recommended that females do not get pregnant for two years after the surgery.
Q10. Will you work with my internist/family practitioner?
A10. Yes, we exchange information with your physician on a regular basis as you are going through our program. Of course, you can elect not to notify your physician for privacy reasons.
Q11. Are the surgeons members of a bariatric society?
A11. The surgeons from our team all are members of the American Bariatric Society.
Q12. What sets your program apart from the others?
A12. The Center for Bariatric Surgery offers an unparalleled combination of expertise, counseling and support, all key factors in achieving weight loss success. We have one of the most comprehensive programs because we provide extensive teaching and support for our patients: before, during and after surgery. Combine that with our well-rounded, experienced team and it is clear that we provide real options for those considering surgery to address their obesity.
Call us for more information 219-738-5617.