Frequently Asked Questions
When it comes to services and treatment options, you deserve to know the truth. For your convenience, we've compiled a list of some of the most frequently asked questions.
If you don't see what you're looking for, give us a call at (260) 435-7844
I am interested in finding out more about obesity surgery. What is the next step?
Attend a free seminar to learn more about bariatric surgery and Lutheran Hospital's bariatric program, which will help you decide if weight loss surgery is right for you. Call (260) 435-7844 to register for an upcoming session.
Once I decide to undergo a bariatric procedure, how long will it be before I can have surgery?
It generally takes one to two months to schedule weight loss surgery at our center. During this time, the staff will compile your clinical data and request approval from your insurance company. You will also be evaluated to make sure you are a good candidate for successful weight loss surgery. Some insurance companies require their policyholders to participate in a documented non-surgical weight loss program for six months before approving surgery. This can delay the process.
Does my insurance company cover weight loss surgery?
Most insurance companies cover weight loss surgery, but each company sets different criteria. Some require prior participation in a documented weight loss program, nutritional consultations and/or psychological evaluations. You should contact your insurance provider to find out more.
What can I do to speed up the insurance approval process?
Be proactive. Know your insurance company's requirements and meet them as efficiently as possible by gathering and providing the necessary information. Medical data can be faxed to our weight loss surgery center in Indiana at (260) 435-6899.
What if I don't have insurance?
Bariatric surgery is not only for those with insurance or insurance approval. Lutheran Hospital offers competitive cash payments. An insurance specialist will help determine the cash pay price.
Can I have bariatric surgery with small incisions (laparoscopically), or do I need an open procedure?
With the surgeon's experience, very few patients require open surgery. More than 95 percent of patients undergo laparoscopic surgery.
How long will I stay in the hospital?
Gastric bypass patients whose surgery is performed laparoscopically usually stay in the hospital for about two days.
How soon will I be able to return to work after weight loss surgery?
Patients are usually able to return to work about one to three weeks after the procedure. It is not dangerous to return to work earlier, but some patients take more time off than others, depending on their job as well as their level of discomfort or fatigue.
How much weight will I be able to lose?
Ninety-five percent of patients at our weight loss surgery center in Indiana lose at least half of their excess weight, and 85 percent of our patients lose at least two-thirds of their excess weight. Any long-term loss of at least 50 percent of excess weight is considered successful, but many patients lose 75 percent or more and keep it off for the rest of their lives.
Will I need to follow a special diet after bariatric surgery?
After the post-surgical recovery period, there is no specific diet beyond a well-balanced meal plan that takes the new size of the stomach into account. Gastric bypass patients should take vitamin supplements daily to avoid deficiencies. They should also undergo yearly testing at our weight loss surgery center to make sure vitamin levels are optimal.
What kind of support is available after weight loss surgery?
Education and counseling before and after surgery is a major part of our treatment strategy. Patients are encouraged to attend the monthly support group to meet with others who have a shared experience.
Can I get the surgery reversed?
Surgery can be reversed or modified, but this is a complicated procedure and is very rarely necessary.
Will I still be able to get pregnant?
Yes! In fact, many women find it easier to get pregnant after significant weight loss because they enjoy better overall health and more normal hormone levels. However, it is important to avoid pregnancy during the weight loss process. Once a woman reaches a healthy, stable weight, it is safe to get pregnant.
I had surgery at another weight loss surgery center and forgot what I was told to do. Can you help me?
After weight loss surgery, you should have regular follow-up appointments. The bariatric team recommends checkups at three, six, nine and 12 months, followed by yearly appointments. If you have moved away from the area in which your weight loss surgery center is located, or if you have forgotten your protocols, call us at (260) 435-7844 to schedule an appointment. To facilitate your treatment, we will ask you to have your records sent from your surgeon to our office.
How do bills and payments work for these procedures?
You will receive three bills - hospital, anesthesia and surgical. The anesthesia and surgical bills will be sent separately under their practice name. Your estimated out-of-pocket amount is for the hospital bill only. The hospital bill must be paid in full at program start date (orientation day).