Frequently Asked QuestionsHome > Your Questions > Frequently Asked QuestionsQ: What is severe (morbid) obesity? A: Obesity becomes “morbid” when it reaches the point of significantly increasing your risk for one or more obesity-related health conditions or serious diseases, or co-morbidities. With symptoms that build slowly over a long time, morbid obesity is a serious, chronic disease and must be treated as such. Q: What are Obesity-Related Health Conditions? A: Conditions typically associated with obesity include:
Q: What is non-surgical weight loss treatment? A: Most non-surgical weight loss programs include a combination of diet, behavior modification and regular exercise. However, less than 5% of individuals who participate in non-surgical weight loss programs are able to lose a significant amount of weight and maintain that weight for a long time. In fact, according to the National Institutes of Health, more than 90% of all people in non-surgical weight loss programs regain their weight within a year. And sustained weight loss for morbidly obese patients is even harder to achieve. Q: What is an “advanced obesity treatment”? A: Advanced obesity treatment consists of a comprehensive program that includes surgery, coupled with nutritional counseling, psychological support and exercise, to promote optimal recovery. Surgical treatment for obesity has demonstrated great success in helping patients achieve significant short-term weight loss, as well as long-term weight management. Equally important, serious medical conditions – diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, elevated cholesterol and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) – can be significantly improved and sometimes eliminated after surgery. Before you decide to have weight loss surgery, you should consult with an experienced bariatric surgeon and your primary care physician. Many patients find it helpful to sign up and attend one our informational seminars, where our weight management team is available to answer your questions. To sign up for a free seminar, click here. Q: How do I know if I’m a candidate for surgery? A: MidState follows the guidelines established by the National Institutes of Health to determine if your eligibility. There are several criteria to consider. If you are at least 100 pounds overweight and have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 kg/m2 (calculate your BMI), OR if you have a BMI of 35kg/m2, together with obesity-related health conditions, surgery may be appropriate for you. You must also have documentation that you’ve tried more traditional weight loss methods in the past, as well as proof that you do not have any current drug/alcohol abuse issues, or a psychiatric illness that would impair your judgment. It’s also important to understand the benefits as well as the risks of surgery and be committed to making the lifestyle changes necessary to succeed. Q: What surgical weight loss methods does MidState offer? A: MidState offers Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery, as well as Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding. Both of these procedures have proven to be highly effective in the treatment of severe obesity. We use minimally invasive laparoscopic procedures. Q: How do I know which method is best for me? A: Both surgeries are widely performed, and each has its own advantages. Our surgeon will work with you and conduct a thorough assessment to determine the most appropriate method for you. Q: How long will it take from my initial appointment to surgery? A: Weight loss surgery can be a lengthy process. However, this ensures that you’re well prepared and know what to expect. In fact, careful preparation will help you achieve a better outcome and greater success in meeting your weight loss goals. Our screening process includes an in-depth review of your personal and medical history, as well as a rigorous workup that includes laboratory testing and imaging. A psychosocial evaluation is also part of the process. Q: Will insurance cover my weight loss surgery? A: You will need to contact your health insurance provider to ask whether surgery is covered. Health plans vary greatly. While we are happy to assist you with this process, you are strongly encouraged to take an active role. If your insurance does not cover weight loss surgery, you have the option to finance the procedure. Q: How long will I be followed after surgery? A: We are committed to our patients for life. Following surgery, you’ll have regularly scheduled appointments with your surgeon. Our dietitian, pharmacist and social worker are always available for additional support, or to answer any questions. And we strongly encourage our patients to attend our monthly support group. Q: How long will it take to lose my excess weight after surgery? A: You should see a reduction in your weight right after surgery. Weight loss will continue for the next 18 to 24 months. Q: What should I know about life after surgery? A: Weight loss surgery is life changing. You’ll see your health improve. And you’ll probably need to take fewer medications. Following the recommendations of our weight management team, however, is critical to your long-term success. You’ll need to adopt a healthy diet, exercise regularly and take vitamin supplements. If you were a smoker, you’ll have to quit. Above all, you’ll need to remain committed to fully realize the benefits of your surgery. We know this journey can be challenging, but remember you are not alone. There is a whole team behind you. Q: Do you offer a support group? A: Weight loss surgery patients are encouraged to attend our monthly Weight Loss Surgery Support Group. Research shows that patients who regularly participate in support groups achieve greater long-term success in maintaining their weight loss goals. Q: How can I learn more? A: You can access a lot of useful information from this website. Just go to “Knowledge Is Power.” We also hold weight loss seminars every month. These meetings give you an opportunity to ask questions about weight loss surgery and our program. Our surgeon, social worker, registered dietitian, and pharmacist will be available to tell you what to expect before and after surgery. This entire team is committed to your success and your journey to a healthier, active lifestyle. We invite you to learn more about our upcoming weight loss seminars. |
 |
|
|
Meet patients who struggled until they had weight loss surgery |
|
|
|
Ready for the next step? |
