Am I a candidate for bariatric surgery?
To qualify for bariatric surgery, you must have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or greater, or have a BMI of 35 with other health issues related to obesity, with obesity being defined as being 100 pounds or more overweight.

These health issues might include:

  • Congestive heart failure
  • Coronary artery disease
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Hypertension
  • Infertility/polycystic ovary syndrome
  • Lipid and cholesterol disorders
  • Low back pain
  • Obstructive sleep apnea
  • Physical disability
  • Pulmonary embolism
  • Shortness of breath/fatigue
  • Varicose veins

What are the steps I have to take prior to surgery?
When you make an appointment to have bariatric surgery, you are making a commitment to change your life. That new life starts as you prepare for your upcoming surgery and continues as you learn to make healthier choices. Participation in our program includes:

  • Meeting your bariatric surgeon who will help you with health screenings and evaluations
  • Nutrition evaluations
  • Education
  • Smoking cessation
  • Learning about your insurance coverage

Once you complete all pre-operative steps and your insurance is approved, you will be scheduled to determine a surgery date.

What happens after surgery?
The average stay in the hospital is one night after surgery. The average time to take off work or school is approximately one week, however talk to your surgeon about the recommended time to take off.

Follow up is very important to your success. Your first follow up visit will be approximately one-two weeks after surgery. Then we like to visit with you one month, three months, six months and one year, and we’re available to meet with you every year after that. Our team is here to support you for the rest of your life!

How much does weight loss surgery cost?
The cost of bariatric surgery often depends on a variety of factors, including insurance. While most insurance companies will cover bariatric surgery, we recommend that you reach out to your insurance provider to discuss your options. We will provide a FREE telephone appointment with our Financial Counselor to go over your insurance benefit. We accept self payment, private insurance, Medicaid, and Medicare.

How much weight can I lose from weight loss surgery?
Around 90% of patients lose 50% of excess body weight and keep it off long-term. Studies have reported that bariatric surgery has proven to decrease mortality, risk for cancer, heart disease, among many other benefits. Your surgeon can give you a more individualized weight loss range based on your starting weight, height, and various other factors.

What are the requirements for medical weight loss?
Any patient trying to lose weight with a BMI > 30 or >27 with one or more weight related comorbidities, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, or sleep apnea.

How much weight can I lose from the medical weight loss program?
While studies on the individual medications report weight loss of 8-10% with medications and lifestyle changes, we have seen an average of 5% weight loss with a range up to 20% lost in a few patients. Keeping in mind everyone is different.

What can I expect at a medical weight loss appointment?
Our Nurse Practitioner works with patients to create a customized weight loss plan based on the individual’s medical history and current eating behaviors. Weight loss medications, meal replacements, and supplements will be considered based on patient history. There are multiple medications that are FDA-approved for weight loss.