Bariatric Surgery FAQs
Below, we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions about bariatric surgery to help you feel more confident as you consider your options.
What constitutes being obese?
A person with a BMI (Body Mass Index) greater than 30 is considered obese.
- Overweight: BMI 25–29.9
- Obese: BMI 30–39.9
- Morbidly obese: BMI ≥40, or BMI ≥35 with obesity-related health conditions (such as sleep apnea, diabetes, or hypertension).
Patients in the morbidly obese category are generally strong candidates for bariatric surgery.
What weight makes one a candidate for bariatric surgery?
You may be a candidate if you have:
- A BMI ≥40 (about 100 pounds overweight for men, 80 pounds for women).
- A BMI ≥35 with an obesity-related health condition (such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea).
Each patient is evaluated individually by our bariatric team.
How long is the recovery after bariatric surgery?
After surgery, most patients are able to return to work within just one to two weeks, and are able to return to regular exercise after 4-6 weeks. Your surgeon at BASS Medical Group will work with you to create a post-bariatric surgery plan.
How much weight can you lose with bariatric surgery?
The results of bariatric weight loss surgery are truly amazing. Patients can generally anticipate losing 50-70% of their excess weight. Studies show that the weight loss after surgery is not temporary, but is permanent, unlike after dieting. The amount of weight you lose is dependent on which weight loss surgical procedure you and your physician choose, and how well you adopt healthy eating and exercise habits. Just as important as the weight loss, is that there is an excellent chance obesity-related medical problems, such as diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, etc., will improve or completely resolve. In addition, patients following weight loss surgery report feeling much more energetic, active, and generally able to do many things they were unable to do prior to surgery.
Will insurance cover bariatric surgery?
The answer to this question depends on your insurance plan. However, in most cases, insurance companies cover weight-loss surgery providing you meet certain medical criteria. One of our patient coordinators at BASS Medical Group can help determine whether your insurance company covers weight-loss surgery, and can also help determine what, if any, out-of-pocket costs will be associated with bariatric surgery.
How does bariatric surgery improve overall health?
There are many health risks associated with being overweight, especially if you suffer from morbid obesity. Weight-loss surgery can significantly improve your overall health. Some of the many benefits of weight-loss surgery include:
- Improvements in energy and self-confidence
- Reduction in high blood pressure and high cholesterol
- Reduction in risk for heart disease
- Reduction or elimination of sleep apnea
- Reduction in Type 2 Diabetes
- Reduction in Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Reduction in Asthma
- Reduction in Urinary Incontinence
Who qualifies for bariatric surgery?
Candidates are typically adults who:
- Have a BMI ≥40, or BMI ≥35 with health conditions
- Have tried diet and exercise without long-term success
- Are ready to commit to lifestyle changes after surgery
What is the most common stigma behind weight loss surgery?
A common misconception is that bariatric surgery is “the easy way out.” In reality, surgery is just one tool. Long-term success requires commitment to healthy eating, exercise, and follow-up care.
Is weight loss surgery safe?
Yes. Bariatric surgery is considered safe and effective when performed by experienced surgeons. At BASS Bariatric Surgery Center, our complication rate is significantly lower than the national average due to our team’s expertise and attention to patient safety.
How old or young can you have weight loss surgery?
- Most patients are 18 years or older
- Some adolescents may qualify with medical supervision
- There is no strict upper age limit, but older patients undergo more careful evaluation
How do you keep the weight off after weight loss surgery?
- Follow your post-op nutrition plan
- Take prescribed vitamins and supplements
- Exercise regularly
- Attend follow-up visits and support groups
Our team will work closely with you to ensure you have the support you need for lifelong success.
What do our surgeons suggest for someone thinking about weight loss surgery?
Dr. Brian Chin recommends that patients first learn as much as possible about the disease of obesity and the different treatment options available. Research shows that bariatric surgery is the most effective method for achieving significant and sustained weight loss compared with diet or medications alone. Surgery is not a shortcut, but a proven tool that helps patients lose weight long term and improve their health.