Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I qualify for weight reduction surgery?
The National Institutes of Health requires a BMI (body mass index) of 40 or greater or a BMI of 35-40 with significant co-morbidities (i.e., diabetes, hypertension, weight-bearing arthritis, sleep apnea, depression, high cholesterol or gastric reflux) and documented ineffective dietary attempts. Morbid obesity is commonly defined as being 100 pounds or more over your ideal body weight, or about 75 pounds overweight with related co-morbidities.
New FDA guidelines state you may be a candidate for Lap-Band surgery with a BMI >=30 when accompanied by a significant co-morbidity such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or sleep apnea.
How much weight will I lose after surgery?
On average, people lose 2/3 of their excess weight. For example, if you weighed 300 pounds and your "idea" weight is 150 pounds, you should expect to lose about 100 pounds. Of course, weight loss depends on you and how well you follow a good diet and how often you exercise.
Results can vary depending upon the procedure.
How long do I have to stay in the hospital?
The average time of discharge is 2 to 3 days after surgery. Discharge planning begins on day 1 when we start identifying needs that you might have. Our medical staff work together to make sure your discharge home goes as smoothly as possible.
For Lap Gastric Band, typcially it is an outpatient procedure requiring no hospitalization.
How long does the operation take?
The length of the operation depends on several factors. If you have not had previous surgery and we do not have any difficulty getting to the area of your stomach, then the operation usually takes 1-2 hours.
What can I eat after surgery?
The first day after surgery you usually start on liquids and then are advanced.
What will my long-term diet be like?
- Eat 3-4 small meals a day. Not only is there an adjustment to make about the quantity of food you can eat, you will also have to learn to eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly.
- Drink fluids 30-60 minutes after meals. Taking fluids before or at meal times may cause bloating, low food intake, vomiting, or dumping syndrome.
- Keep a diary of your dietary intake. Include everything you eat and drink, the date/time and if you tolerated the meal. (Did you vomit?)
- Do not eat sweets! This includes candy, "junk foods" and sodas.
- Eat foods high in protein. Protein foods are very important for healing your pouch and staple line. Hair loss is one side effect of not eating enough protein.
- Eat foods low in fat.
What food supplements are necessary after surgery?
You will need to take your vitamins every day for the rest of your life following gastric bypass surgery.
Most patients require multi-vitamins, calcium, iron and Vitamin B 12. Other supplements may be added.
When can I go back to work?
Most patients go back to work 1-3 weeks after surgery, depending upon the procedure.
When can I start exercising?
A walking program should be in place before surgery to increase your strength and endurance. We encourage you to get out of bed the first post operative day and increase your activity each day while in the hospital. It is expected of you to walk with nursing staff 4-6 times daily following surgery. By the time you are discharged from the hospital, you should be able to walk without difficulty (getting the mail, morning paper, etc.).
How long does it take for my insurance company to approve my surgery?
Many insurance companies provide coverage for bariatric surgery; however, the patient needs to prove medical necessity for authorization. Obtaining approval can often be a very time consuming and tedious process. In determine if the procedure is medically necessary, most insurance companies require a detailed medical history containing the patient’s current weight, height, body mass index and supervised diet for so many consecutive months as specified by your insurance company. You will need a psychological evaluation, a nutritional evaluation and a letter from your primary care physician regarding your health. After we received all of the required information, we will submit your paperwork to your insurance carrier to request an approval for surgery. It typically takes a few weeks to a month to get a response.
