Center for Bariatric Surgery

Frequently Asked Questions

In addition to losing weight, are there other benefits?

Yes, it helps the vast majority of people improve their quality of life and overall health by

• Lowering blood sugar
• Lowering blood pressure
• Reducing or eliminating sleep apnea
• Decreasing joint pain
• Lowering cholesterol levels
• Increasing mobility
• Improving overall quality of life
• Will my insurance cover the costs?

Most people do not know that the majority of insurance plans cover bariatric surgery. The Center staff works closely with you and the insurer to facilitate approval and payment. 

We also offer the New Life pre-surgical program to help meet insurance eligibility criteria and prepare you for success after the procedure.  When insurance does not cover the procedure, you may wish to seek other sources of funding.

How long will I have to be off of work?

On average, most individuals take 1 week off of work. However this varies depending on the type of work performed.  Some individuals have gone back to work sooner.  As soon as you feel ready, you are able to resume normal activities. Patients with extensive medical history might have other restrictions that will need to be considered on a case by case basis.

What happens when I reach my goal weight?  Is the band removed?

Removal of the band is not common or recommended once your goal weight is achieved. Obesity is a chronic disease and individuals who have lost weight are prone to weight regain when the band is removed. Ideally, the band remains in place, as a tool to help with maintenance and prevent relapse or weight regain.
 
However, if needed, removal of the LAP-BAND ® System can occur and normal functioning of the stomach and digestive tract should resume. 

Could a patient fail to lose weight after surgery?

A common saying in the bariatric surgery field is “the surgery is a tool” to help you lose weight.  There are two components for success.  The band is one element of success the other is YOU!  Our team of experts will work with you to help make the lifestyle changes so the band will be a powerful weight loss tool.  Failure to make lifestyle changes may result in lack of weight loss.  Having your band adjusted on a regular basis will also contribute to success after surgery.  On average, patients will require a band adjustment every 4-6 weeks during the first year and every 2-3 months thereafter until the desired weight is achieved. Once at your goal weight, the visits are reduced to once or twice a year.

Are there problems with skin after surgery?

Significant weight loss may require follow-up plastic surgery to remove excess skin folds.  There are many factors that contribute to whether or not one decides to have skin removal.  As a rule, plastic surgery should not be considered for a year or two after surgery.   

Are there any foods I will not be able to eat after the surgery?

You will be able to enjoy smaller portions of most foods while losing weight after the procedure.  There are, however, some foods you may not be able to eat after surgery.  Each individual’s food preferences are different, but in general the following foods should be avoided to prevent discomfort:  white bread, rice, meats that are tough and dry, and stringy vegetables. 

Does the LAP-BAND ® System limit physical activity?

The LAP-BAND ® System does not hamper physical activity including aerobics, stretching and strenuous exercise. In fact, regular activity is recommended for weight loss and maintenance.

What if I get pregnant after surgery?

Becoming pregnant can be easier as you lose weight. Your menstrual cycles may become more regular. Many individuals who have failed to become pregnant before losing weight, may be able to become pregnant after surgery. As a general rule, significant weight loss or gain is discourage during pregnancy. Accordingly, the decision to empty the band might have to be individualized. It is very important for a patient to let us know if and when they know about their pregnancy so we can closely monitor their weight and their overall health.