Bariatric surgery, like any other surgery, does have risks and should be discussed with your primary physician and our surgeon. However, there are times when the surgical risk of bariatric surgery is lower than the risk of living with obesity and its related co-morbidities. That’s when surgery is ideal. Complication and mortality rates have been dropping over the past decade and laparoscopic techniques have further reduced the incidence of surgery-related complications.

Qualification criteria include weight vs. height (BMI), the presence of health conditions, age and surgical risk, among other factors. We will perform a full evaluation of your condition after your consultation and let you know if you qualify under our guidelines and, if applicable, under those of your insurance company.

Insurance:

For patients who have insurance, the first and most important requirement is to know if your insurance plan covers bariatric surgery. You will also want to find out what requirements your insurance company has in order to pre-approve you for the specific procedure in which you are interested. Insurance companies generally have strict qualification standards and knowing these standards beforehand can be very helpful in ensuring a smooth insurance process.

Cash Pay:

Our program offers flat rates for bariatric surgical services in order to reduce your total-out-of pocket expense. Cash pay patients should speak to our patient coordinator for the specific contracted rates. We strive to offer any guidance that we can, however we do suggest that you consult with your financial professional, in order, to fully understand your options and the impact to you.

If you need to explore payment options, please visit here.

Generally speaking, the average patient will leave the hospital on the same day for gastric banding procedures and the next day for gastric sleeve procedures. Of course, every case is unique.

The more you surround yourself with support, you are, statistically, more likely to achieve a better outcome. Support can come from many sources including organized groups, family and friends and exercise classes. The most important thing is to find the support that you need and fits into your life.

Texas Health offers a number of virtual support groups. Your surgeon’s office may have support groups available, or to find one offered by Texas Health, visit our Classes & Events page.

In the end, you along with your surgeon will be able to answer that question. Every case is different and while some patients enjoy great success after surgery, there are many potential patients on whom we never operate because they are not ideal candidates. Your particular health situation, your willingness to work hard to lose weight, and the results of your testing will let us know if surgery is right for you.