Say what you want about social media, but it can be a very useful tool when you (as a business, a medical practice or even an individual) want to know what real people really think about an issue or topic of discussion.
We recently asked our Weight Loss Specialists of North Texas followers on social media what their top questions surrounding the topic of bariatric surgery are. Here is the collection of most common things people wonder about regarding bariatric surgery along with responses by our very own Dr. Folahan Ayoola:
Q: Is there only one type of bariatric surgery?
A: Not at all! Years ago, if you were considering weight loss surgery, the choices were fairly limited and the primary procedure for bariatric surgery was a traditional gastric bypass. But advances in the field have come in leaps and bounds, and today, you have more choices than ever when it comes to finding the procedure that is right for you. We offer the gastric bypass, duodenal switch, sleeve gastrectomy and more. We’d be happy to talk to you about all the options at your weight loss consultation.
Q: Does it really matter which type of surgery I have?
A: It really does. Depending on how much weight you need to lose, your overall health, any underlying conditions, lifestyle and many other factors, we can determine which bariatric procedure will give you the best chance at achieving and maintaining a healthy weight for a lifetime.
Q: Is bariatric surgery covered by insurance?
A: In many cases, the answer is yes! We can help you determine the scope of your insurance benefits and coverage as well as help you meet any bariatric surgery qualifying requirements your insurance company may have. If you don’t qualify for coverage, we have great connections with reputable financing companies who have been very helpful in working with our patients in the past.
Q: How will I know if I qualify for bariatric surgery?
A: To be considered a candidate for surgical weight loss, you must have failed in at least one valid attempt at medical weight loss treatment. You will also typically have one or more of the following:
- 100 pounds or more over ideal body weight
- Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or greater
- At least 75 pounds over ideal body weight (BMI over 35) with at least one serious obesity-related disease
Q: Will I need to have plastic surgery to remove loose skin after I have bariatric surgery?
A: Losing a lot of weight is a significant accomplishment and a huge first step toward a healthier, more active life. However, some individuals do deal with excess, sagging skin after they lose significant weight which can present other challenges. An experienced cosmetic surgeon can remove excess skin and we work with a few of the best that we can refer you to.
Q: Can I still get pregnant if I have bariatric surgery?
A: Yes! In fact, most pregnancies after bariatric surgery have successful outcomes with fewer obesity-related complications like gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. Pregnancy after bariatric surgery can be safe and healthy if managed well by you and your health care provider. I typically recommend postponing pregnancy until your weight stabilizes – usually around 12 to 18 months after surgery.
Q: How long is the recovery from bariatric surgery?
A: While full recovery from bariatric surgery may take up to six or eight weeks, most of our patients feel well enough to return to work and normal activities in two weeks or even less. Some bariatric surgery procedures have a longer recovery period than others and we will be happy to explain everything you want to know at your surgical weight loss consultation.
Q: How much weight will I lose and how long does it take to lose it after bariatric surgery?
A: The amount of weight loss can vary depending on the type of bariatric surgery performed. For this reason, it is important to understand the differences between the various procedures so that you can choose the one that not only fits your lifestyle but also is likely to produce the type of weight loss you need and/or desire. Most patients achieve a steady weight within 12 to 24 months of their weight loss surgery. Again, this can vary depending on starting weight at the time of surgery, the procedure performed and how closely they comply with dietary and exercise recommendations.
Q: What is the long-term success rate for bariatric surgery?
A: Bariatric surgery is designed to provide long-term weight loss. The amount of weight you lose depends on the type of surgery and your change in lifestyle habits. Many of our patients lose half, or even more, of their excess weight within two years. In addition to weight loss, bariatric surgery may improve or resolve obesity-related conditions including acid reflux, heart disease, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, Type 2 diabetes and more.
Q: Why should I choose Weight Loss Specialists of North Texas?
A: So many reasons! For one, we recognize that weight loss is not a one-size-fits-all scenario. Treatment plans are as unique as the individuals who come to us for help. We set ourselves apart by offering multiple options for safe and lasting weight loss in an environment of support and compassion. We can combine different elements to customize a weight loss plan designed specifically for you, your needs, goals and preferences. Our entire team believes in developing relationships because lasting weight loss is not a one-time treatment. It is a lifetime commitment and requires lifestyle changes, education and accountability.
And there you have it – the top 10 questions we hear the most from people considering weight loss surgery. Curious if it could be right for you? Schedule a consultation today.
You’ve got this. We’ve got you.
