Gastric Bypass FAQs

What is the best method for weight loss surgery?

Gastric Bypass Surgery via the Roux-en-Y is generally considered to be the best surgical procedure for the treatment of morbid obesity. The functional portion of your stomach will be reduced to a small pouch that is about one ounce in size and then a small opening between the stomach and the intestine will be created. Gastric bypass has helped many morbidly obese individuals successfully lose 100 or more pounds. This procedure is recommended as a weight loss option for medical reasons rather than cosmetic.

Can I get pregnant after the surgery?

Yes, however it is recommended to wait approximately one to two years, especially with the Gastric Bypass. With the LAP BAND if an unexpected pregnancy should occur, the saline could be removed to allow for more caloric intake. For many people fertility increases after weight loss so it becomes easier to get pregnant.

Will I need plastic surgery to remove excess skin after I've lost the weight?

It varies from person to person. The amount of excess skin will depend on skin elasticity, amount of weight lost, hydration, exercise, and age. Personal tolerance is also a key factor; how much loose skin each person is willing to live with varies. You should wait until a few months after your weight has stabilized before considering skin removal.

How much does the surgery cost?

The cost varies depending on where you have the procedure done. A typical procedure can cost between $20,000 and $35,000. This includes hospital fees as well as the surgeons and other professional fees. Many health insurance companies will pay for some or all of the costs. Although it may be covered by your insurance company, some do not cover the procedure at all. It is important to understand what is covered in your policy

How soon can I have the surgery done?

If you are paying for the procedure yourself, without insurance, it is possible to have surgery in as little as 3 weeks. If you have insurance and want them to cover the surgery, then it depends on what paperwork is required. With commercial insurance, it can take two weeks to twelve months to get approval. It depends on their specific requirements.

How do I qualify for gastric bypass surgery?

Gastric bypass surgery is only recommended for people who are 90 pounds or more overweight and have serious medical complications that will be helped or cured by substantial weight loss.

What happens if my insurance won't cover the surgery?

Many insurances will cover surgical treatment of morbid obesity. Each policy is different so our insurance team will call your individual policy to check for the benefit. There are options. Consider changing plans during open enrollment, seek out a different insurance policy with bariatric coverage, or consider financing the procedure. The cost, without complications, is $25,000 for the Gastric Bypass and $15,000.00 for the LAP BAND.

What can I eat right after surgery?

Clear Liquids - The first stage of the gastric bypass diet, clear liquids (meaning beverages that you can almost see through), usually lasts for a day or two after the operation. The clear liquid diet starts with sips of water, and then allows foods like sugar-free juice, diet gelatin, bullion or clear broth, and flat (no fizz) diet soda in small amounts, usually 2-3 ounces at a time.

Low-Fat Full Liquids - If no problems are experienced with clear liquids, the gastric bypass diet advances to high-protein liquids like diet Carnation Instant Breakfast™ or Ensure™. This stage of the diet is started before discharge from the hospital and lasts for 1 to 2 weeks. Most patients also begin taking a chewable multivitamin/ mineral supplement at this stage.

Soft/Purée Diet - The physician will indicate when it is time to advance to the soft or purée diet. Some patients are able to start this diet after they have been out of the hospital for about two weeks. Others may need to wait longer. The purée diet includes very soft, high-protein foods like scrambled egg, low-fat cheese or cottage cheese, or lean meats like tuna fish, chicken, or pork that are put in a blender (some patients find it more convenient to use strained baby foods).

Regular Diet - The regular diet starts about 8 weeks or later after gastric bypass surgery. While this diet includes all 5 food groups, it is important to start with high-protein foods, like lean meats or milk, at every meal. Each meal or snack should be small, with liquids consumed in between meals. Ask a dietitian for advice on planning an individualized regular diet pattern.

Once I've fully recovered, can I go back to eating normal food?

After gastric bypass surgery, it is very important to avoid foods that are high in fat, sugar or 'empty' calories (such as chips, soft drinks and junk food). Other foods that may cause problems are dry meats, bread, rice, pasta, popcorn, fibrous fruits and vegetables, and greasy or fried foods. Alcohol also has a high number of calories and breaks down vitamins and nutrients in your body. It is suggested that you completely refrain from drinking alcohol for the first year after surgery.