Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding bariatric surgery. If you don't see what you're looking for, give us a call at (260) 425-2800.
I am interested in finding out more about obesity surgery. What is the next step?
Attend a free seminar to learn more about bariatric surgery and Lutheran Health Network's bariatric program, which will help you decide if weight loss surgery is right for you.
Once I decide to undergo a bariatric procedure, how long will it be before I can have surgery?
The amount of time to surgery can depend on various factors – insurance requirements, additional pre-operative medical evaluations and even your personal timeline. The staff will compile your clinical data and request approval from your insurance company, which in some cases can take up to 3 to 6 weeks.
Does my insurance company cover weight loss surgery?
Most insurance companies cover weight loss surgery, but each company sets different criteria. Some require prior participation in a documented weight loss program, nutritional consultations and/or psychological evaluations. Contact your insurance provider to find out more.
What can I do to speed up the insurance approval process?
Be proactive. Know your insurance company's requirements and meet them as efficiently as possible by gathering and providing the necessary information. Medical data can be faxed to the weight loss surgery center at (260) 435-6899.
What if I don't have insurance?
Bariatric surgery is not only for those with insurance or insurance approval. Lutheran Downtown Hospital and Lutheran Hospital offer competitive cash payments. An insurance specialist will help you with cash pay options.
Can I have bariatric surgery with small incisions (laparoscopically), or do I need an open procedure?
Each patient is evaluated to make sure he or she is a good candidate for successful weight loss surgery and to determine the most-appropriate procedure. More than 95 percent of patients undergo laparoscopic surgery.
How long will I stay in the hospital?
Bariatric surgery patients whose surgery is performed laparoscopically usually stay in the hospital for one-to-two days.
How soon will I be able to return to work after weight loss surgery?
Patients are usually able to return to work within one to four weeks after the procedure. Some patients take more time off than others, depending on their job and level of discomfort or fatigue.
How much weight will I be able to lose?
Ninety-five percent of patients at our weight loss surgery center lose at least half of their excess weight, and 85 percent lose at least two-thirds of their excess weight. Any long-term loss of at least 50 percent of excess weight is considered successful, but many patients lose 75 percent or more and keep it off for the rest of their lives.
Will I need to follow a special diet after bariatric surgery?
After the post-surgical recovery period, you will be required to follow a specific well-balanced diet that progresses in stages. This meal plan takes the new size of the stomach into account. Bariatric surgery patients are also required to take vitamin supplements daily for life to avoid deficiencies. They should also undergo yearly laboratory testing and have annual follow-up appointments at the weight loss surgery center to make sure vitamin levels are optimal.
What kind of support is available after weight loss surgery?
Education and counseling before and after surgery are major elements of our treatment strategy. Patients are encouraged to attend the monthly support group to meet with others who have a shared experience.
Can I get the surgery reversed?
Surgery can be reversed or modified, but this is a complicated procedure and is very rarely necessary.
Will I still be able to get pregnant?
It is important to avoid pregnancy during the first year following surgery. Once a woman reaches a healthy, stable weight and is at least one year out from surgery, she can begin planning for pregnancy by talking with her physician. Many women find it easier to get pregnant after significant weight loss because they enjoy better overall health and more normal hormone levels.
I had surgery at another weight loss surgery center and forgot what I was told to do. Can you help me?
After weight loss surgery, you should have regular follow-up appointments. The bariatric team recommends checkups at three, six, nine and 12 months, followed by yearly appointments. If you moved away from the area in which your weight loss surgery center is located, or if you have forgotten your protocols, call us. To facilitate your treatment, we will ask you to have your records sent from your surgeon to our office.
How do bills and payments work for these procedures?
You will receive three bills - one from the hospital, one for anesthesia and one from the surgeon’s practice. The anesthesia and surgical bills will be sent separately under their practice names. Your estimated out-of-pocket amount is for the hospital bill only. The hospital bill must be paid in full 1-2 weeks prior to your surgery date.