Frequently Asked Questions
What Exactly Happens In Weight Loss Surgery?
The surgical procedure is called gastric bypass or Roux-en-Y. A small stomach pouch is created to limit the amount of food the stomach holds. The new stomach pouch holds less than a cup of food. A section of the small intestine is attached to the pouch. The shortened intestine absorbs less food than before. As a result, you eat less food and absorb less of the food you eat.
How Do I Decide If I Want Weight Loss Surgery?
Deciding on weight loss surgery can be difficult. It is a major surgery and, if qualified, you must understand the risks and possible complications which will be fully explained by the physician. Make sure you know what to expect after surgery too. In most cases, the surgery is not reversible. You must be willing to change your lifestyle for the rest of your life. Your body may change greatly in the years after surgery. Weight loss surgery is not a “quick fix.” It requires a significant commitment. This surgery is not something you do because you don't want to put effort into diet and exercise.
How Do I Know If I’m A Candidate For Weight Loss Surgery?
If you have tried to lose weight by other means, you may be a candidate for weight loss surgery. But this type of surgery is not for everyone. To qualify, you need to have a BMI (body mass index) of 40 or more. You also may qualify if you have a BMI of 35 or more plus a serious health problem, such as diabetes. Your overall health must be good enough to have surgery. In addition, you will be required to have a psychological and a nutritional evaluation.
What Is Body Mass Index (BMI)?
Health care professionals use Body Mass Index (BMI) as the standard to determine whether a person is overweight or obese. An adult with a BMI of 25 to 29 is considered overweight. A BMI of 30 is obese, and morbid obesity starts at a BMI of 40.
Why Should I Have Surgery At Hillcrest?
The Weight Loss Surgery Center at Hillcrest offers you an excellent opportunity for significant weight loss and improved quality of life. Hillcrest has teamed with surgeons on the medical staff of Baylor University Medical Center, who have performed more than 2,000 gastric bypass procedures, often on an outpatient basis.
What Can I Expect After the Surgery?
Eighteen to 24 months after surgery, you can expect to have lost 70 to 90 percent of your excess weight. Also, most medical complications associated with obesity, including diabetes and hypertension, are greatly improved. As with any major surgical procedure, weight loss surgery has certain risks. You should ask your surgeon about the risks and possible complications.
What Kind of Support Will I Have After the Surgery?
The Weight Loss Surgery Center at Hillcrest is here to help before, during, and most importantly, after the surgery. After surgery, we offer support to help ensure you adhere to dietary and exercise guidelines. Patient-led support groups and psychologists are available to help you address any emotional issues. Our multidisciplinary team includes physicians, nurses, dietitians, psychologists, a program coordinator and insurance benefits coordinator.
Will My Insurance Cover This Procedure?
Many insurance providers require documentation of previous participation in at least two physician-supervised weight loss programs with recorded weigh-ins and progress notes. You may wish to contact your insurance provider to determine the specific requirements.
How Can I Get More Information?
If you believe you are a candidate for weight loss surgery and would like to learn more, we invite you to attend an information seminar (if you have not already) led by our staff and surgeons. This seminar, which is mandatory in order to have the surgery, will give you the facts you need to make an informed decision about the surgery. You will meet other members of the health care team, including a nurse and dietitian, as well as a former patient who has had the procedure.
To receive more information,
please call (254) 202-LOSE (5673).
