Q. Am I a candidate for bariatric surgery?

A. Your BMI must be more than 40 or more than 30 with a health problem; be older than 18; had only short term success with serious weight-loss attempts; and be prepared to attend regular follow-up sessions and make lifestyle changes. We will not turn down any BMI at any age over 18 if there is reasonable risk/benefit ratio. (Check your BMI here)

Q. How long does it take to recover after surgery?

A. Lap-Band surgery patients typically spend less than 24 hours in the hospital and most patients can return to work in 1 to 2 weeks. Bypass and Sleeve patients typically spend 2 to 4 days in the hospital and most patients can return to work 2 to 6 weeks after surgery.

Q. How much weight will I loose after surgery?

A. Weight loss results vary from patient to patient. The amount of weight you lose depends on several things, including your commitment to your new lifestyle and eating habits. Lap-Band surgery patients can lose 2 to 4 pounds per week, but 1 pound per week is more likely. Gastric Bypass and sleeve gastrectomy patients can expect to lose 1 pound per day the first month, 5-15 pounds per month for the next 5 months, then 1-2 pounds per week for the next 6 months.

Q. Will my health insurance cover the procedure?

A. This depends on your health insurance policy and benefits. If it is covered under your policy then they will have specific requirements for you to meet. Please check with you insurance provider for more information (click here to read more). If you need assistance with this please contact our office at 904-389-8871 and we have staff that can help.

Q. If I am interested learning more about weight loss surgery, what is my first step?

A. Please sign up for our free informational seminar (top of page).

Q. Can I become pregnant after weight loss surgery?

A. Women should avoid pregnancy for at least 18 months after surgery. Discuss any pregnancy plans with your surgeon. Studies have shown that accidental pregnancy right after surgery did not increase any risk for a newborn. Please take your multivitamins as advised.

Q. Will I have to take vitamins?

A. After surgery you will be taking vitamin and mineral supplements for life. Supplementation will include multivitamins and calcium, and may also include vitamin B-12, iron, as well as other as needed. Because everyone has different needs, regular follow up is crucial to determine which supplements are right for you.

Q. What if I have excess skin?

A. As you start to lose weight, you may notice excess skin. The amount of excess skin you experience is due to your weight loss and age. Sometimes patients choose to have plastic surgery to have the skin removed. We have plastic surgeons we work very closely with that we can recommend to you.

Q. Should I exercise after weight loss surgery?

A. Regular exercise is extremely important for maintaining your weight loss. Our bariatric team will help you with the types of exercise you should be doing, and how soon after surgery you should start doing them.