Bariatric surgery is a major life change and a big step toward a healthier future. And you’re not making this decision lightly. That’s why we’re here with seven frequently asked questions about weight loss surgery.
While we can offer some of the answers here, we encourage you to bring these questions up at your consultation with your bariatric surgeon so you can get answers tailored to your situation and unique needs. Write these down or print them out if you need to. We want you to succeed in your goals toward a healthier you.
Why should I choose you and your practice?
All AdventHealth Weight Loss and Bariatric Surgery locations across Central Florida are officially recognized by The Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) as comprehensive centers. All four locations have met stringent criteria for staffing, training and facility infrastructure and protocols for care, ensuring our ability to support patients with severe obesity, with access to the vast AdventHealth network of care.
What resources do you offer before and after surgery?
To help you stay motivated, prepare for surgery and maintain your ideal weight post-operation, you’ll work with a dedicated care advocate who will help you connect with our wide-ranging network of specialists, dietitians and providers to guide you through recovery and beyond.
You’re also invited to join our exclusive AdventHealth Weight Loss and Bariatric Surgery Facebook support group (Central Florida). It was created for both pre-op and post-op bariatric patients to share their successes, struggles, advice, goals and experiences in a friendly, caring environment.
Am I a good candidate for bariatric surgery?
A big part of qualifying for bariatric surgery is based on your body mass index, or your BMI. Under the most recent guidelines, patients with a body mass index (BMI) over 35, regardless of any health-related issues, are eligible for weight loss surgery. People with a BMI over 30 are also eligible if they haven’t been able to achieve substantial or long-term weight loss.
You can learn more about bariatric surgery guidelines here. If you qualify under these new guidelines, it’s important to check with your insurance company to ensure they are also up-to-date with the new qualifications.
Which bariatric procedures do you perform?
If you're considering bariatric surgery as a weight loss solution, understanding the different types of procedures is a crucial part of your journey. Bariatric surgery is not a one-size-fits-all treatment. The three primary options — Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, vertical sleeve gastrectomy and duodenal switch — each offer unique benefits and one may be more suitable depending on your specific circumstances.
Check out our blog to learn the details about each type of bariatric procedure to help you determine which is the right one for you.
How do I prepare for bariatric surgery?
When it comes to bariatric surgery, we often focus on the physical results — the ability to move more easily, fit better into clothing, and become a healthier version of ourselves. But weight loss surgery isn’t just physical. It affects your body, mind and spirit. So how do you mentally prepare for such a drastic change?
Read more here for how to mentally prepare for your surgery, and we’ll walk you through the steps to success throughout your whole weight loss surgery journey.
What foods can I eat after weight loss surgery?
It might feel overwhelming to know which foods to eat after your operation. Here’s a helpful shopping list to make your decisions easier while you get into the swing of a new lifestyle and brand-new you:
- Lean proteins such as chicken, turkey, fish and tofu
- Non-starchy vegetables like leafy greens, tomatoes and bell peppers
- Low-fat dairy products like milk, yogurt and cheese
- Whole grains such as quinoa, brown rice, and whole grain bread and pasta (limit starches and eat in moderation)
- Fruits like berries, apples and bananas
- Nuts and seeds for healthy fats
- Water and other healthy beverages to stay hydrated
In contrast to the nutritious foods you can and should eat, there are also some food types to avoid after weight loss surgery. They include:
- Alcohol
- Breads, pasta and other starchy foods
- Caffeinated beverages
- Carbonated drinks
- High-fat, high-sugar foods, including foods like ice cream, candies, chips, fried foods and pastries
- Meats that are tough or not properly cooked
- Sugary beverages like soda, fruit juice and sweetened teas
How much weight will I lose following my operation?
The amount of weight lost after bariatric surgery varies from patient to patient, and to some degree, can be estimated in advance. Most importantly, each patient has the most influence over their success. Bariatric surgery is a tool. And like any other tool, using it wisely will improve the results, especially in the long term.
Our team trains patients how to use their bariatric operation to the fullest. If they eat the recommended types and portions of food, supplement with the right vitamins and minerals, exercise and stay mindful of their health, they’ll improve their chances of long-term success.
Each operation has a different expectation for weight loss, and it will also differ from patient to patient. We’ll discuss this with you in detail at your initial consultation.
We Have Answers to Your Questions
We hope we answered some of your initial questions. And we know you’re probably brimming with more. To get more answers about your weight loss surgery options, take the next step and connect with us.
Visit AdventHealthWeightLoss.com to learn more. You deserve to feel whole.
