Bariatric Surgery FAQs

Pursuing bariatric surgery is a big step in reclaiming your health, and it’s natural to have questions. Our personalized approach includes taking time to give you the information you need to feel confident about the next steps in your care. Below are answers to commonly asked questions. If you have other questions or concerns, let us know during your next appointment.

Bariatric Surgery FAQs

Common questions about bariatric surgery include:

Do I qualify for weight loss surgery?

Trinity Health Michigan follows the National Institutes of Health’s guidelines to determine if bariatric surgery is right for you. They include:

• Having a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more, which means being approximately 100 pounds overweight
• Having a BMI of 35 to 40 plus other weight-related medical issues, such as diabetes, high blood pressure and sleep apnea
• Not achieving weight loss goals, even with the support of a medically supervised diet
• Committing to lifelong lifestyle changes and medical follow-up after surgery

How much weight can I lose after bariatric surgery?

On average, you can expect to lose between 50% to 70% of excess body weight after bariatric surgery. How much you lose depends on which type of surgery you choose. Results also depend on following healthy lifestyle practices, such as eating a balanced diet and exercising.

How does weight loss surgery work?

Bariatric surgery helps you lose weight through:

• Restriction, which limits the volume of food you consume. You can expect to feel fuller eating small meals. Some procedures also limit the release of appetite-stimulating hormones, so you aren’t as hungry between meals.
• Malabsorption, which lessens the time food spends in the small intestine so that you absorb fewer nutrients and calories. Receiving care from an experienced team, such as ours, can help you avoid complications from not receiving enough nutrients.

At Trinity Health Michigan, you have access to procedures using one or both methods. We perform a comprehensive evaluation before recommending the best option for you. Find out more about the types of bariatric surgery we offer.

Does my diet need to change?

Adopting healthy eating habits can help you qualify for surgery and achieve the best possible results. You’ll need to maintain these habits for the rest of your life. The eating plan that’s right for you depends on your medical needs and personal preferences.

Healthy eating habits are especially important after surgery. In most cases, it involves eating smaller, more frequent meals and taking vitamins or supplements. Registered dietitians teach you how to make good choices and navigate common challenges, like social settings with high-calorie foods. Find out more about nutrition counseling and weight management.

Can I safely become pregnant after bariatric surgery?

Yes, it’s possible to become pregnant and have a healthy pregnancy after bariatric surgery. Losing weight and improving your health may increase your chances of becoming pregnant.

Your body needs time to heal from surgery and adjust to your new nutritional needs. That’s why it’s helpful to wait at least 18 months after surgery before trying to start or expand your family.

Will my insurance cover weight loss surgery?

If you meet specific requirements, your insurance may cover weight loss surgery. Our extended team includes patient coordinators and financial counselors who help you navigate the insurance approval process.

Requirements may include:

• Confirmation of a weight-related medical issue
• Documentation of previous attempts to lose weight without surgery

If your insurance doesn’t cover bariatric surgery, we work with you on a self-pay option so that you can still meet your health and weight loss goals.

Will I need plastic surgery to remove excess skin after I lose weight?

Most people lose weight quickly, resulting in loose, sagging skin. This extra skin adds bulk to your appearance, making it difficult to see how much progress you’re making. If extra skin is bothersome, plastic surgery to remove it may be an option. We discuss timing, insurance coverage and potential outcomes, so you can decide whether it’s right for you.

What if I’m not sure about bariatric surgery or don’t qualify?

Trinity Health Michigan helps many people achieve weight loss goals with nonsurgical approaches. We offer comprehensive nutrition and weight management services. Offerings include one-on-one and group nutrition counseling sessions and family-based healthy lifestyle classes.

Our Locations

Bariatric surgery offices are located in nine Michigan cities, and surgeries are performed at seven of our hospitals including in Chelsea, Grand Haven, Grand Rapids, Livingston, Livonia, Muskegon, and Oakland. Our Chelsea program is in partnership with University of Michigan Health.

Surgeons in our medical group and clinically integrated network support our hospital programs and may see patients within their practices. Call our Bariatric First Step Line at 844-423-7564 to get started.