Is weight loss surgery right for everyone? The short answer is no. Surgery is not a solution for everyone. We only determine whether a patient is right for surgery after a complete evaluation and discussion with the patient. Because weight loss surgery is a life-altering procedure, we want to make sure patients are committed to making the lifestyle changes needed for a successful procedure.
How is eligibility determined? Henry Ford Hospital follows guidelines supported by the National Institutes of Health in order to determine a patient's eligibility for weight loss surgery. Rather than using weight, we use body mass index (BMI) as a criteria for surgery--excess fat in relation to height. Individuals are candidates for surgery if:
They have failed previous attempts at weight loss in a medically supervised program
Their Body Mass Index (ratio between height and weight) is greater than 40 or between 35 and 40 with major obesity-related medical problems
What are the risks of weight loss surgery? All major surgery comes with risks, and the risks are different for each patient. During the first appointment, the surgeon explains the risk level.
How much weight does a patient lose? Will the weight loss be quick? The amount of weight lost and how fast it is lost depends on which weight loss surgery is performed. Patients who have adjustable gastric banding (Lap-Band®) procedures usually lose about 1-2 pounds a week and a total of 40 percent excess body weight. Those who have gastric bypass (RYGB) lose about 50-60 percent of excess body weight. In our program, the average patient loses between 68 to 78 percent of his or her excess body weight after RYGB or DS.
Can a person become pregnant after weight loss surgery? Women should avoid pregnancy for at least 18 months after surgery. Please discuss any pregnancy plans with the surgeon.
Does insurance cover the cost of the procedure? Insurance coverage depends on the individual plan. For example, some insurance companies require a patient to be in a physician-supervised weight loss program for at least a year before surgery. Before a patient comes to their first appointment, they should call the insurance company to find out if weight loss surgery is covered. Henry Ford Hospital has an insurance specialist in place to help can help with the insurance authorization process.
How do patients start the process? Patients should call 1-800-HENRY FORD (800-436-7936) to obtain a medical record number (patient identification number). They are then scheduled to attend a nurse and dietician educational class. Once the class is completed, patients see the surgeon within 7-10 business days. After the doctor's visit, a determination is made as to whether the patient is a good surgical candiate, the surgery is scheduled
Where is the first appointment? The Nurse and Dietician Bariatric Education Classes are at the Center for Athletic Medicine. Daytime and evening classes are offered.
How long is the first appointment? The first appointment lasts about four hours.
After the first appointment, how long is it before the surgery occurs? It depend upon the insurance provider and the criteria they require as well as the tests and requirements our team finds necessary.
How long will I have to stay in the hospital after surgery? The length of the hospital stay depends upon the type of weight loss surgery. Generally, hospital stays are between one and three days.
How long will I be off of work after surgery? Again, time off of work depends on the type of weight loss surgery. After Lap-Band® surgery, patients return to work in about 2-3weeks. The gastric bypass (RYGB) and duodenal switch (DS) procedures average a four-five weeks recuperation.
Do patients have to take vitamins? Yes, patients have to take a multivitamin and calcium supplement everyday.
When can patients stop taking my vitamin and mineral supplements?
Never, it is critical supplements are taken. We will check the patient's blood several times during the first year after surgery and every year for the rest of their life to ensure they are absorbing your nutrients.
Can the weight be regained? YES. Patients can regain some of the weight. The patient's overall behavior and compliance with the diet and exercise contribute to the long-term weight loss success. We emphasize that this surgical procedure is a “tool” which when used properly will produce good results. Long term follow-up with the Bariatric Team is essential.
What about alcohol? We do not recommend patients consume alcohol. Alcohol can cause marginal ulcers in the stomach pouch which could cause bleeding. It can also lead to severe nutrient deficiencies.
What about tobacco after surgery? We strongly recommend people stop smoking before and after surgery. Smoking may increase the chance of stomach ulcers. It also increases the risk of complications in the operating room.
How long does it take to schedule surgery? Usually several months are needed for evaluation, meetings and various tests to be completed. We ask patients to focus on weight loss during this time. We prefer they begin to lose weight prior to surgery as they begin to change eating and exercise behaviors in accordance with our dietician’s and exercise physiologist recommendations. The pre-operative weight loss goal will help the surgical team in perform surgery as safely as possible.
Can patients who have had a previous bariatric surgical procedure, but have regained the weight, have another procedure? “Redo” or reoperative surgery is possible, but not everyone should have it. The potential complication are higher than for the first-time bariatric surgery patient. We will assess the individual situation carefully and make recommendations. Since diet and exercise play a crucial role in weight loss success, we will ask patients to their part as well.
How soon will patients start losing weight? Patients begin losing weight immediately after surgery.
