Is Weight Loss Surgery For Me?

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If you're struggling with severe obesity, and repeated dieting and exercise just haven't worked, a bariatric (weight loss) procedure may be the solution for you. In fact, when combined with a personalized treatment plan, weight loss surgery is the only effective option to combat severe obesity and maintain long-term weight loss, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Weight loss is a journey and we're here to help you every step of the way. Many of our patients experience more than just long-term weight reduction - they experience notable improvement in their health. Concerns - including diabetes, hypertension, respiratory problems, heart disease and depression - often improve after weight loss, and patients gain a new, more positive outlook on life and are given the opportunity to pursue a lifestyle that before they only dreamed of having. Through methods including dietary counseling, behavior modification, exercise, support groups and bariatric surgery, we do more than help reduce weight. We change lives.

Am I a Candidate for Weight Loss Surgery?
You may be a candidate for a weight loss procedure if you:

• Are between the ages of 18 and 65 (If you're younger or older, your case may be considered)
• Have a body mass index of 40 or above
• Have a body mass index of 35 or above, and you also suffer from one or more health problems, such as type 2 diabetes or hypertension
• Have a body mass index between 30 and 34 and you also have two or more weight-induced chronic conditions
• Are struggling with an obesity-related condition like hypertension, heart disease or sleep apnea
• Have tried or are currently trying to lose weight through other means such as diet, exercise and behavioral changes with only short term success
• Are psychologically ready for weight loss surgery and willing to commit to a whole new lifestyle
• Do not drink alcohol in excess

Find out if weight loss surgery is right for you.

Take a Bariatric Assessment

BMI
Rather than relying only on the bathroom scale to tell you if you're overweight, experts say you should also know your body mass index (BMI). BMI takes into account not just your weight, but also your height to indicate body fat. The goal for most people is a BMI that's over 18 and under 25.

Ready to Take the First Step?

STEP 1: Watch Our Free Online Informational Seminar
It is necessary to watch our free online educational seminar to help you determine if weight loss surgery is right for you. The seminar addresses the various types of surgeries and reviews all aspects of the bariatric surgery process. To receive a link to the seminar, please call 601-936-1170.

STEP 2: Call Your Insurance Company
Check to make sure weight loss surgery is covered by your plan. Criteria for coverage will vary among insurance companies. Below are some questions you may ask your insurance company to determine eligibility.

• Is weight loss surgery covered under my insurance plan?
• Which of these operation codes are covered: Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy 43775, Gastric Bypass 43644?
• Do I need to complete a medically supervised diet? If yes, for how long?

STEP 3: See the Provider
After completing the seminar and deciding that weight loss surgery is something you would like to pursue, an appointment will be scheduled for you to see the provider.

STEP 4: Consultations and Pre-Operative Appointments
To meet established guidelines for weight loss surgery, consultations are required with a registered dietitian and behavioral health specialist. Once the consultations are complete and you are cleared for surgery, pre-op appointments will be scheduled and you will be on your way to a new, healthy life.