Frequently Asked Questions
Do I qualify for Lap Band, Realize Band,
the gastric bypass or the gastric sleeve?
You may be a candidate for weight loss surgery if:
- You have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more (about 100 pounds overweight)
- You have a BMI between 35 and 39.9 and a serious obesity-related health problem (such as heart disease, type-2 diabetes or severe sleep apnea)
- You possess an understanding of weight loss surgery and the lifestyle changes it requires.
If I follow the recommendations,
how much weight can I expect to lose?
The amount and rate of weight loss varies by individual and surgical procedure. On average, patients lose between 50-70% of their excess body weight. Weight loss usually occurs within one to three years following surgery.
Where will my surgery be performed?
Most operations take place at Norman Regional Hospital in Norman OK or at Surgery Hospital of Oklahoma in Oklahoma City, OK.
When Can I Go Back to Work?
Resuming work duties will depend on the type of surgery. Generally, patients are ready to return to work 2-4 weeks after surgery. Patients choosing the band procedure may be able to return to work as early as one week. It should be noted, however, that every situation and patient differs.
Is everyone a candidate for a laparoscopic procedure?
No. Laparoscopic surgeries benefit patients by using smaller incisions and shorter hospital stays, however not all patients lend themselves to laparoscopic procedures. Some cases begin as laparoscopic, but ultimately result in an open procedure using a larger incision. With over 2,500 weight loss surgeries performed, over 97% are laparoscopic.
Do I have to eat special foods after surgery?
Yes. During the healing process, it is important to follow a strict bariatric diet. You will receive instructions regarding diet progression from liquid foods to solid foods. Due to the decreased size of the stomach pouch, it is important to consume a variety of food through small meals during the day. To avoid dumping syndrome and aid weight loss, patients should avoid food high in fat and sugar. The dietician will provide specific nutrition information and guidelines regarding food choices.
Should I drink sodas or diet sodas?
No! Sodas and diet sodas contain caffeine and carbonation which are irritants to the stomach pouch as well as mild appetite stimulants. The best liquid drinks are water, skim milk, sugar free flavored water, decaffeinated tea, decaffeinated coffee or non-carbonated sugar free beverages.
Will my skin sag?
Yes. The combination of rapid weight loss and the large amount of fat between the skin and true body will cause the skin to sag. With regular exercise and balanced diet, the elasticity and appearance of the skin will improve over time. Age is a large factor in skin elasticity; therefore younger patients tend to recover more quickly.
Can I smoke after this operation?
No. Smoking after any of these operations slows healing time and greatly increases the risk of ulcers. Ulcerations in the stomach or esophagus can be life-threatening if they bleed or cause stricture. You are better off by not smoking after this operation. For these reasons we strongly urge our patients not to smoke following bariatric surgery. Patients who smoke prior to surgery must be smoke free for 90 days before their surgery date.
What if my insurance does not provide
benefits for weight loss surgery?
Our trained patient coordinators in the office can familiarize and assist patients with self pay options. We provide financial options for weight loss surgery in these circumstances. To simplify the financing process, anesthesia, hospital and surgeon’s fees can be packaged.
Is there a chance to regain weight?
Yes. In the beginning weight loss can seem easy, however over time all patients will reach a leveling off period. This plateau can leave patients feeling frustrated or discouraged f they are yet to meet their goal weight. In this time, it is important to realize that weight loss surgery is a tool and a constant process. After surgery, your lifestyle changes will greatly affect your weight loss success. OKlahoma WEIGHT LOSS OPtions does offer a variety of support to help emotionally after surgery.
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