New Hope - Surgical Weight Loss Center S.C.
Fredrick M. Tiesenga, MD
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Informational Meetings

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

1. What is the first step in beginning the process?

You should first attend one of our informational meetings. There you will receive a packet that you must complete and return. Once it is returned, we can then determine which tests you need to take before your consultation with our surgeon. Once you meet with our surgeon a request for pre-approval will be sent to your insurance company.

2. Will my insurance cover the surgery?

Insurance policies differ from plan to plan. Most insurance companies cover a majority of the cost of the surgery. However, our suggestion would be to call your insurance company, usually the 1-800 phone number on the back of your card, and ask if you have bariatric coverage, and if so, what is the medical criteria you need to meet to be pre-approved.

3. Do I qualify for bariatric surgery?

You must have a BMI of 40 or over. However, if your BMI is 35 or over you must have other health problems/comorbidities such as diabetes, arthritis, joint pain, shortness of breath, sleep apnea, and so forth.

4. What is a BMI?

A BMI stands for a Body Mass Index, which is a calculation between your height and weight. The calculation can be determined by the following:

BMI=             Weight in pounds x 704.5
                          Height in inches x 2

18.5-25 = Normal Weight
25-30 = Overweigh
30+ = Obesity
40+ = Morbid Obesity

5. How long is the hospital stay?

If you have the Gastric Bypass, there is a 2-3 day hospital stay.
If you have the LAP-BAND, there is typically an overnight stay.

6. What are the benefits?

  • Weight Loss
  • Decrease in mortality rate
  • Decrease in diabetes, arthritis, joint pain, urinary incontinence, and other health problems/comorbidities.
    • MORE INFORMATION AND DETAILS CAN BE OBTAINED BY ATTENDING THE INFORMATIONAL MEETING.

7. What are some of the risks?

  • Gall Stones
  • Hernia
  • Wound Infection
  • Pulmonary embolism
  • Strictures
  • Death
    • MORE INFORMATION AND DETAILS CAN BE OBTAINED BY ATTENDING THE INFORMATIONAL MEETING.

8. Can I drink alcohol?

No. It is high in calories and can upset your stomach.

9. Can I still get pregnant?

Yes, you can bear a child just like any other person. However, it is strongly recommended that you wait at least a year after your surgery.