Bariatric Surgery Program

Questions From Our Readers

• It has been four years since my gastric bypass surgery and I am starting to gain weight again. Can I have my pouch fixed?
  We are offering a new incisionless surgery called "stomaphix" for patients in your situation who qualify. I would be happy to discuss it with you; please call my office at 401-793-5140 to make an appointment.
  
  
• I am 57 years old. Are there age restrictions for the lap band surgery?
  No. However, you need to meet the general qualifications for weight loss surgery (see above) and requirements that your insurance company may have.
  
  
• I recently spoke to my diabetes doctor and she suggested weight loss surgery. How do I go about getting everything started?
  I agree with your doctor; it is the best option for diabetics who are obese. Call 401-793-5140 for a consultation appointment.
  
  
• Is there a weight limit for bariatric surgery? I know some hospitals won't perform it if you weigh more than 350 lbs. I'm male and 6 feet tall. I weighed 426 but I'm now 396.
  There are reasons why there are some weight limitations. Many CAT scanners and barium study machines cannot accommodate patients over 350 lbs.
  
  Also, the heavier the patient—especially men over 400 lbs—the more likelihood of severe complications from surgery and the more likely the operation must be "open" rather than laparoscopic.
  
  At The Miriam, we prefer you to be less than or close to 400 lbs. to ensure the best results of surgery with limited complications by a planned pre-op weight loss program. We work with patients on 2-stage operations when they are struggling with weight over 400 lbs.
  
  
• I'm 58 years old. I weigh close to 260 lbs. and am 5'3". I had a vertical banded gastroplasty surgery about 8 years ago that failed. Is there anything that can be done surgically to correct this?
  There are options such as sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass. Repeat operations are always higher risk than first-time procedures and may need to be performed "open" rather than laparoscopically. I would suggest you see a surgeon with experience in this type of "redo" surgery.

• How much does it cost to have the lap band surgery, and does health insurance cover some or all of it?
  Most insurance covers all costs if you qualify. We get preapprovals from insurance companies before surgery to ensure that the patient does not have to pay a huge bill after surgery. The cost of surgery is variable, and there are financing programs that will assist patients without insurance coverage.
  
  
• My insurance does not cover obesity surgery. If I am eligible for lap band surgery, would you consider a discounted fee?
  We are working with the hospital for a flat fee structure for patients seeking surgery. The band companies have also made arrangements with certain banks for financing so that patients can utilize an additional mode of payment.
  
  Based on your financial status, you may be also eligible for free care at the hospital. The surgeon's fee is usually less than 8% of your total cost. We could also work out a monthly payment plan for the surgeon's fee.

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