Bariatric Surgery
While bariatric surgery is beneficial, all weight loss procedures can pose some side effects. Therefore, you must eat healthily and exercise properly to succeed in your bariatric surgery.
Why it’s done
Bariatric surgery helps shed excess weight and minimizes the risk of weight-related life-threatening health issues such as:
- Heart disease and stroke
- NAFLD or NASH
- High blood pressure
- Type 2 diabetes
- Sleep apnea
Who it’s for
Your physicians may recommend you to go for bariatric surgery if:
- Your BMI is ≥ 40, termed as extreme obesity.
- Your BMI is between 35 – 39.9, termed as obesity, and you’ve serious health issues linked with weight, for instance, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or severe sleep apnea.
Not everyone who is overweight may qualify for bariatric surgery. To qualify for bariatric surgery, a patient must fulfill certain clinical guidelines. You may undergo intensive screening to meet the qualification. And must be willing to make permanent changes to your way of living to enjoy a healthy, happy, and fulfilled life. Moreover, you may need to attend post-surgery appointments that monitor your diet, lifestyle, and health condition.
Types
- Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD/DS)
- Gastric bypass (Roux-en-Y)
- Sleeve gastrectomy
Preparation for Surgery
If you qualify for bariatric surgery, the team at Nova Bariatrics will instruct and prepare you for the type of surgery you’ll undergo. You may need to conduct several exams and laboratory tests before the procedure begins. You may be restricted on your diet, liquid intake, and medications.
It’s also wise to plan for post-surgery recovery, for example, getting someone at home to help you with basic chores.
What You Can Expect
Several hours are required for the surgery, and you’ll wake up in a recovery room where the medical staff will monitor you for any possible complications. Depending on the type of procedure, your doctor may advise you to stay at the hospital for a few days.
Surgery Results
Bariatric surgeries are a long-term solution to weight loss, and the amount of weight reduced depends on the surgery type and alterations to your lifestyle. With these procedures, you may lose half or more of extra weight in a two-year period.
Other than weight loss, gastric bypass surgery can help treat many health conditions related to excessive weight, such as:
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- High blood pressure
- GERD
- Heart disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- Osteoarthritis
If you wish to lose weight and lead a happy and healthy life, schedule a consultation with our Bariatric surgeon Dr. Alibhai.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is a candidate for bariatric surgery?
You may be a candidate for bariatric surgery if you have a BMI of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with an obesity-related condition such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, or heart disease. At Nova Bariatrics, board-certified surgeon Dr. Mustafa Alibhai evaluates each patient’s BMI, medical history, and weight-loss goals during a consultation before recommending a procedure.
What types of bariatric surgery does Nova Bariatrics offer?
Nova Bariatrics offers gastric sleeve (sleeve gastrectomy), gastric bypass, SADI-S, duodenal switch, and revision surgery for patients in the Dallas–Fort Worth area. All procedures are performed using minimally invasive and robotic-assisted techniques by Dr. Mustafa Alibhai, who has completed over 3,500 successful surgeries.
Is weight loss surgery safe?
Bariatric surgery is considered safe and is one of the most studied elective procedures, though, like any surgery, it carries some risk. Potential complications such as dumping syndrome, dehydration, and nutrient deficiencies are largely preventable by following the prescribed diet and taking vitamins and minerals as directed for life.
How much weight will I lose after bariatric surgery?
Most patients lose 60–100% of their excess body weight within 12 to 18 months, depending on the procedure. Gastric sleeve patients lose about 60% of excess weight on average, gastric bypass patients lose roughly 70–80%, and duodenal switch patients can lose 85–100% — up to 150 pounds in some cases.
Does bariatric surgery improve other health conditions?
Yes — bariatric surgery, combined with post-operative lifestyle changes, improves the majority of obesity-related conditions, including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and joint pain. It is not a cure-all, and lasting results depend on maintaining dietary and lifestyle changes after surgery.
Where is Nova Bariatrics located?
Does insurance cover bariatric surgery?
Many major insurance plans cover bariatric surgery, including BlueCross BlueShield, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, Cigna, Humana, and Medicare. Coverage depends on your specific plan, employer group, and bariatric benefits, so Nova Bariatrics recommends calling (469) 639-0953 to verify your benefits before your visit. Financing through CareCredit and Cherry is also available.