There are a number of San Antonio weight loss clinic options for people to choose from when considering weight loss surgery. BMI of Texas of San Antonio sets itself apart with its continued dedication to creating and maintaining enduring partnerships with patients through education, support and compassion. We have listed many of the frequently asked questions our experts receive from potential and existing clients below.
Questions about the BMI of Texas clinic:
Does your weight loss clinic accept insurance?
Some insurance providers have bariatric benefits. Each insurance plan is different and has different requirements that affect whether or not the insurer will pay for surgery. Call our office to have us run your benefits and see if you will be able to get weight loss surgery using your insurance.
What is your patient success rate for keeping excess weight off post-bariatric surgery?
Our patients who maintain close contact through regular follow-up appointments and make the necessary lifestyle and dietary changes are able to keep weight off long-term. We are a team here and it takes just as much work for you to be successful as it does for us to help get you there.
Why do you think your patient success rate is so high?
We have a great team of doctors and dietitians who are willing to work with you every step of the way and offer great post-op follow-up care, as well. You are our patient from the day you walk through our door until well beyond when you meet your goal.
Weight loss surgery questions:
What does “bariatric” mean?
Specializing in the treatment of obesity.
Who should have weight loss surgery?
Most insurance requires a BMI of 40 or greater OR a BMI of 35 or greater with a comorbidity such as type 2 diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, hypertension and certain heart diseases.
What health benefits are associated with weight loss surgery?
There are several health benefits to weight loss surgery. These include getting off of obesity-related medications for diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and sleep apnea.
What types of weight loss surgery do you perform, and do you recommend one in particular?
We perform the gastric sleeve, the loop switch, lap band and the gastric bypass. We recommend surgeries on a case-by-case basis. Typically, it depends on what surgery you feel most comfortable with. However, your surgeon will make suggestions based on which one would work best for you!
How much weight can I expect to lose from weight loss surgery?
There are a lot a variables in terms of how much weight you lose. However, if you make the recommended diet and lifestyle changes and depending on the type of surgery, you can expect to lose anywhere from 70 to 100 percent of your excess weight!
How much does weight loss surgery cost?
The cost of the surgery varies. You can call our office and talk to a patient advocate or billing specialist for a quote depending on the type of surgery.
How will I need to prepare for weight loss surgery?
You will work closely with the surgeon, dietitian and patient advocate to determine what exactly you need to do to prepare for surgery.
How long will it take to see results from weight loss surgery?
Typically you will see results within the first year, as long as you follow up regularly and stick to the diet plan indicated by the dietitians.
How many bariatric surgeons does BMI of Texas have on staff?
We currently have three bariatric surgeons in San Antonio working at our clinic.
How long does it take to recover after weight loss surgery?
Anywhere from two to five weeks, depending on the type of surgery you had.
How often do patients have to come into the clinic after weight loss surgery?
We have a pretty rigorous follow-up schedule starting two weeks post-op to ensure that you have the best results without any complications. Follow-up visits will become less frequent as you go farther out from surgery, depending on your success rate.
Will I have loose skin after weight loss surgery?
It is likely that you will experience loose skin post-surgery. This is common after extreme weight loss.
How do I manage excess skin after dramatic weight loss?
Please refer to a recent blog post we created to address this topic.
Can I get pregnant after weight loss surgery?
Yes. It is common for women to be more fertile after weight loss surgery. However, it is important to wait a year post-surgery before getting pregnant in order to get the full benefits from the surgery.
Medication, vitamin and nutrition questions
Will I have to take medication and vitamins for the rest of my life after weight loss surgery?
It is very important to take vitamins long-term after surgery to prevent any deficiencies. Iron, calcium and B12 are all absorbed in the stomach, a process that is compromised after surgery. Therefore, making sure you have adequate vitamins is very important.
Is dieting a factor at your weight loss center?
Absolutely. We have a well-rounded program that includes adhering to a low-carb diet.
What are the best foods to consume after weight loss surgery?
Meats and non-starchy vegetables are the best foods to stick to, along with healthy fats.
Exercise questions
How long should I wait to exercise after weight loss surgery?
It’s best to start walking as soon as possible after surgery. You will typically be cleared to exercise after your initial post-op visit with one of the clinic’s weight loss surgeons.
What are the best types of exercise to perform after weight loss surgery?
Nothing is off-limits. It’s best to work within your comfort zone and increase steadily. Hurting yourself will only set you back.
Read more about our clinic or contact our Patient Services Representative at 210-615-8500 during regular business hours with questions other than the ones addressed above.
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