DR. ISKANDAR, DR. KELLY, AND DR. ROYE Your Top Questions About Weight-Loss Surgery Answered

Your Top Questions About Weight-Loss Surgery, Answered

Doctors know you have concerns. Here’s what they want you to know about whether you qualify, what insurance will pay for, and more

BY DR. MAZEN ISKANDAR, DR. TIMOTHY KELLY, AND DR. WATSON ROYE, WEIGHT-LOSS SURGEONS AT TEXAS SURGICAL SPECIALISTS If you’re overweight, those excess pounds could be impacting your life in many ways. You might struggle to keep up with your family and friends. You might face health conditions linked to your weight, such as heart disease, diabetes, or sleep apnea. You may worry that your weight could shorten your lifespan.

Still, you might have concerns about weight-loss surgery. Here are some of the most common questions people ask us when they are considering surgery to reduce their weight.

Shouldn’t I be able to lose weight with diet and exercise?

Most people who are considering weight-loss surgery have tried many different diet and exercise plans. The fact is, losing weight and maintaining that weight loss with diet and exercise is nearly impossible for people who are obese. Weight-loss surgery is an option that works.

How do I know if I qualify for weight-loss surgery

Many people are candidates for weight-loss surgery. You likely qualify if you are age 18 to 69 with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more. You should also be eligible if you have a BMI of 35 or more and a health condition such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, sleep apnea or snoring, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or osteoarthritis.

Will my insurance cover the cost of weight-loss surgery?

You should contact your insurance company to find out what they will cover. However, most insurance companies cover weight-loss surgery, subject to payment of your deductible and co-pays.

I’ve heard there are different types of weight-loss surgery. How do I know which one is right for me?

Each type of weight-loss surgery has its pros and cons. The right choice depends on your overall health, weight-loss goals, and lifestyle. If you are considering weight-loss surgery, your surgeon can talk to you about the different options, how they work, and the results you can expect. Together you can choose the procedure that’s best for you. Whatever you choose, most procedures use minimally invasive surgical techniques and are considered safe.

Will I need plastic surgery after weight-loss surgery?

You’ll probably have some loose or sagging skin, but it might be less noticeable than you expect. Your weight and your body will change a lot in the first year and a half after surgery. Factors like how much weight you lose, your age, your genetics, how much you exercise, and whether you smoke will influence your appearance.

Results are not guaranteed and may vary per individual due to underlying medical conditions and/or other factors.

Physician is an employee of HealthTexas Provider Network, a member of Baylor Scott & White Health. ©2021 Baylor Scott & White Health.