Will my insurance cover the surgery?
It depends. Many insurance plans cover surgery, but only if you have documentation of physician supervised weight-loss efforts, including an exercise program and visits with a physician and a dietitian or nutritionist. The sooner you begin documenting these, the better chance of your insurance covering the surgery. Our staff is here to help you with this as well.
What if my insurance does not cover surgery?
We offer private-pay options. We also accept CareCredit and other major credit cards. Click here to visit CareCredit website. You can find our pricing information here.
What is the age limit for surgery?
Minimum age is 13. We do not have a fixed upper limit for age and perform surgery on carefully selected patients into their seventies.
How long is the hospital stay?
It is our protocol to discharge patients one to two nights after surgery.
How soon can I return to work after surgery?
Most people can return to work within one to three weeks. If your job requires heavy lifting or is very physical, you may need to wait four to six weeks. It depends on the person and the job.
Is it OK to get pregnant after weight-loss surgery?
Yes. Patients are advised not to get pregnant for at least one year following bariatric surgery and not before weight has been stable for at least two months.
Why can’t I drink carbonation after surgery?
For most people, it doesn’t feel good, and it can possibly stretch the “pouch.”
How much protein should I eat after surgery?
For Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy, at least 60 grams per day. For Switch and SADI-S, at least 80 grams per day.
What about alcohol?
In moderation, alcohol is OK. 12 ounces of beer, six ounces of wine or two ounces of liquor per day is considered “moderate.” Remember that alcohol has calories, so the more you drink, the less weight you are likely to lose. Alcohol is absorbed more quickly after gastric surgery, so you have to be strict about no alcohol and driving, operating machinery, etc.
What about vaping, chewing or snuff?
No tobacco or nicotine products ever.
What about marijuana?
The true risks of inhaling or ingesting are unknown, and we advise against all forms.
How much weight should I expect to lose after surgery?
One to two pounds per week is enough. Losing weight faster than this is OK as long as you are getting in protein three times per day and are not having frequent vomiting.
When can sexual activity resume?
Wait one week. As for exercise and lifting, follow the “if it hurts, don’t do it” rule, and wait another week to try again for any activity that causes pain.
