Q: Why consider weight reduction surgery if there are risks involved?
A: Patients who are severely obese have a greatly increased risk of death from many other causes. Many patients begin to develop severe physical problems from the obesity that they are unable to manage as they reach the end of their 30s. The surgery can provide patients with a long-term health benefit and quality of life improvement that justifies surgery.

Q: How long is the surgery and hospital stay?
A: The length of time will vary. The surgical procedure used, along with your physical condition, will determine how long the procedure will last. The average procedure length is 50 to 180 minutes. While all individuals are different, and have different healing speeds and various medical conditions, the average hospital stay is three to five days. The laparoscopic procedure has an expected hospital stay of one to three days. The average Laparoscopic Band patient stays one day. Some patients can return to work in less than two weeks.

Q: Will my insurance pay for this procedure?
A: While many insurance companies do pay for this procedure, some do not. Our staff will gladly help you with your insurance company by calling them to determine if you have a potential for coverage. The St.Vincent Bariatric Center of Excellence staff will also assist in guiding you through the appeal process if necessary. Self-pay programs are available.

Q: When will I be able to go back to work?
A: Many people return to work within four weeks after surgery. Some may have an additional length of time off due to other health concerns, or if their work requires heavy lifting.

Q: How long will I be required to eat liquids or blended foods?
A: You will need to stay on blended foods for several weeks. However, the food does not necessarily need to be bland tasting. You will be given information from our dietitian, who will attempt to tailor your diet to soft foods that you like, but that provide you with the protein you require. You will be able to gradually go back to eating many of the healthful foods you once did. However, you will be unable to eat some foods for an extended period of time that your system will not tolerate, such as red meat, some breads and starchy foods.

Q: Will I have to come back in for surgery again after I lose the weight to have the surgery reversed?
A: No, you will not normally need another surgery. Your body will adjust to the changed lifestyle and eating habits. The surgery is intended to be permanent.

Q: Will I ever be able to have children?
A: Yes, the surgery will lead to weight loss that will frequently help patients in becoming pregnant. In fact, many patients who have previously been told that they cannot have children are able to successfully deliver a healthy child after surgery. You need to wait at least one year after your surgery before trying to become pregnant. If you do become pregnant, you need to be aware that you will have special dietary needs during your surgery, which you will need to discuss with your obstetrician and dietitian.

Q: Will I have to have cosmetic surgery?
A: Most patients do not choose to have cosmetic surgery. Most insurance companies do not pay for cosmetic surgery. Insurance may pay for some if medically required. Patients are encouraged to exercise and maintain a healthy diet to minimize the need for cosmetic surgery. However, if you should choose this type of surgery, we can help refer you to a skilled plastic surgeon who can assist you.