Bariatric Surgery FAQs

For those looking to lose weight, diet and exercise alone aren’t always enough. If you’ve tried these methods of losing weight and could not achieve lasting weight-loss success, bariatric surgery may be right for you. To qualify, you need a BMI over 40 or a BMI over 35 with obesity-related comorbidities, like hypertension, diabetes, or sleep apnea. 

As of right now, there are three different types of bariatric surgery, adjustable gastric banding, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, and sleeve gastrectomy. It’s important to know that bariatric surgery isn’t the “easy way” to lose weight—it’s a last option for those whom traditional weight-loss methods have not worked. Whichever surgery you elect to receive, a healthy diet and regular exercise remain necessary parts of losing the weight post-surgery. 

As with any major surgery, if you’re considering weight-loss surgery, you likely have questions. We’ve provided the answers to a few of the most common down below. 

What is the cost of bariatric surgery?

Depending on the type, weight-loss surgery can range in prices from around $15,000 to $25,000. Some insurance companies will help the cover the cost, depending on the specifics of your situation. This includes factors like previous unsuccessful weight-loss attempts and ruling out obesity as a result of a medical condition.   

How long until I can return to work after bariatric surgery?

This all depends on your healing process, but it typically takes 2-4 weeks before you can return to work. Some people are able to return to work as early as one week post-surgery. It is also recommended that patients stay 1–2 nights in the hospital after surgery in order to rest and regain energy before returning home.

Do I need to take vitamins and minerals after weight-loss surgery?

For malabsorptive bariatric surgeries—surgeries that affect your body’s ability to absorb nutrients—you will need to take supplements on a lifelong basis. This will likely include a daily vitamin, iron, calcium, and Vitamin D, among others that your surgical team will help you identify.  

Yearly lab checks are needed in order to track your health post-surgery, although some insurance companies might cover the cost of these visits. You also may have the opportunity to over vitamin and mineral supplements through a flex medical account.

Will I lose my hair after weight-loss surgery?

Between the first 3–6 months after surgery, hair loss may occur. Fortunately, the vitamins and minerals that you take post-surgery will help with re-growth and help prevent thinning.

Is plastic surgery necessary after bariatric surgery?

This depends on several factors, including the type of surgery you receive, how much weight you lose, how fast you lose it, and your skin elasticity. Remember, your skin will tighten over time, but if you’re not satisfied with your appearance after 18 months, you might consider talking to your surgical team about excess skin removal surgery. 

When can I start exercising after surgery?

As soon as your doctor gives you the go-ahead, it’s recommended you start with small walks after surgery. With the help of your team, you’ll build a workout plan that slowly increases your strength and flexibility. Remember to listen to your body, as it will still be healing form surgery—muscle soreness is a normal part of working out, but stabbing, sudden pain is not. 

What is the level of pain post-surgery?

You will experience some abdominal pain post-surgery, which will likely only last a few days. Your surgical team may provide you with pain medication to combat this. 

There are so many other questions that are asked before and after getting bariatric surgery. Thankfully, Wellstar Georgia is here to help. With state-of-the-art approaches to minimally invasive bariatric surgery and a team dedicated to your success, we’re ready to help you get on the road to weight-loss success.