Frequently Asked Questions

Questions About Surgery

• What is the success rate for weight loss surgery?
• 70-80% of patients achieve success over the long term.

• Can weight loss surgery be reversed?
• All gastric restrictive operations are potentially reversible. Reversal requires an operation of the same magnitude and risk as the original operation.

• Is weight loss surgery a guarantee for permanent weight loss?
• No. Some patients may regain substantial portion of the weight that is lost. This is especially true if the patient does not follow the dietary guidelines in the months and years following the procedure.

• What types of bariatric surgical procedures can be performed?
• There are four main types of procedures:
  

Gastric Bypass Surgery separates the stomach into two unequal compartments with less than 5% of the stomach remaining usable for food consumption. During digestion, the food empties from this tiny stomach pouch into the upper intestine. » More about Gastric Bypass Gastric banding (LAP-BAND®) is a procedure in which the stomach is encircled with an inflatable plastic band that restricts food intake. » More about LAP-BAND® Biliopancreatic Diversion creates a smaller stomach (similar to gastric bypass surgery), but in addition there is less absorption of ingested food inside the intestine. » More about Biliopancreatic Diversion Gastroplasty is a procedure in which the stomach is stapled close to the top with a small outlet or stoma leading to the remainder of the stomach and digestive tract. » More about Gastroplasty

• Which bariatric procedure is right for me?
• This decision is typically made during the consultation between the doctor and the patient. Many surgeons perform only one type of procedure, so there may be little choice for the patient. At New Jersey Bariatrics, we perform nearly all types of gastric restrictive surgery.

• What are the greatest risks associated with gastric bypass surgery?
• Potentially fatal risks include leaks from the stomach or intestine and embolism (blood clots). The chances of these complications occurring are between 1% and 2%. The risk of death associated with bariatric surgery is less than 1%.
  » More about Risks

• Must I be in good health to qualify for the surgery?
• No. Many patients are in poor health because of diseases caused by their obesity. These diseases include diabetes, high blood pressure, heart problems, lung problems, and kidney difficulties.

• Will I need any preoperative tests?
• All patients require specific blood tests, a chest x-ray, and an electrocardiogram (EKG). Patients are also tested for a bacteria that causes ulcers (known as H.pylori) and for gall stones. Some patients may require a sleep study (for sleep apnea) or a psychological evaluation.

• Are there different ways the surgery can be performed?
• Yes. The preferred method by many patients is the laparoscopic approach in which the operation is performed through 4 to 6 very small incisions. There is also the traditional, open approach, in which a large incision is made.
  » More about Bariatric Procedures

• How does the doctor decide which surgical approach to take?
• Some surgeons only perform the procedures using one approach (i.e., open or laparoscopic). Other surgeons who perform both types of procedures usually choose laparoscopic surgery, except in the heaviest patients or patients who require revision surgery (second or third time operations).

• How long does the operation take?
• Anywhere from one to two hours in most cases, occasionally longer.

Questions About Recovery

• What kind of weight loss should I expect following the procedure?
• Most patients lose weight steadily during the first year. Many will lose more than 100 lbs during that time. Some patients lose weight for as long as two years following the procedure and may lose more than 200 lbs during that time.

• How long should I expect to be in the hospital?
• Anywhere from two to four days depending upon how you're feeling post-surgery.

• Will I need special care when I arrive home?
• Most patients can function on their own after discharge. A small number of patients with physical disability before surgery may require extra assistance.

• How many follow-up visits are necessary after surgery?
• Typically, patients will attend four to six follow-up meetings during the first year. After the first year, visits are scheduled at six to twelve month intervals for an indefinite period of time.
  » More about Follow-ups

• Who will be attending the follow-up meetings?
• The operating surgeon and nutritionist meet together with all post-operative patients at each visit.

General Questions

• How long does it take to get an appointment for my initial consultation?
• Approximately one to two weeks.

• Can I fill out any paperwork before I visit your office?
• Yes. We provide our patient questionnaire online. It may be printed and filled out at your leisure.

• After my consultation, how long will it be before I can undergo the procedure?
• The waiting period is about two to six months, depending upon precertification approval.

• What is precertification approval?
• This is the procedure by which the insurance company reviews the medical and dietary history of the patient prior to approving the individual for surgery.

• Will my insurance company pay for the surgery?
• Because this type of surgery is considered medically necessary, insurance companies will often cover it.

• Will I have to pay any out-of-pocket expenses?
• Yes, there is a prepayment deposit required which will be applied against the total bill paid by your insurance company.