Before undergoing bariatric surgery it’s important to understand the type of weight loss surgeries available, if you are a good candidate, any risks you face and if you will have an open or laparoscopic procedure. It’s also important to determine how you will get to and from your surgery and follow up appointments.

Important Questions To Ask Before Bariatric Surgery

1. What medical transportation services are available to me?

Stellar Transportation offers non-emergency medical transportation for bariatric patients. When you book your local or long distance trip with us, you are guaranteed the safest, most reliable and comfortable ride. Contact us today for a competitive quote.

2. Am I a good candidate for bariatric surgery?

In general, bariatric surgery is recommended for patients that:

-Have over 100 pounds of excess weight to lose.

-A BMI of 40 or more

-A BMI of 35+ with one or more co-morbid conditions.

-A long history of failed weight loss treatments.

-Are committed to making the necessary diet and lifestyle changes that must be applied immediately following bariatric surgery. 

-Have recently completed medical tests with a good bill of health. Routine tests completed prior to surgery include: CBC (complete blood count), urinalysis, chemistry screen, physiological evaluation, electrocardiogram, etc. 

3. What are the risks to bariatric surgery?

While surgery results tend to be successful, the potential rewards are not without risks. Make sure your doctor is willing to discuss the full list of risks with you so that you can weigh out your options.

4. What possible side effects will I experience after surgery?

There are possible side effects following bariatric surgery. The most common side effects include vomiting, gallstones, nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, increased gas and abnormal sweating.  For the best chance at a healthy recovery, know what’s normal and what requires medical attention.

5. Will I have an open procedure or laparoscopic surgery?

Laparoscopic is a minimally invasive technique used on some patients, but it cannot be done if a patient has too much dense scar tissue due to something such as a previous surgery. Open procedure is more invasive but is still a better option for some patients. Your surgeon may switch from laparoscopic to open procedure mid- surgery if they are having troubles seeing organs or there is excessive bleeding.

6. What are different types of gastric bypass surgery?

There are three main types of weight loss surgery: Roux-en-Y, gastric banding procedure and sleeve gastrectomy.

Roux-en-Y is the most common type of bariatric surgery in the US. This type of procedure involves creating a small stomach pouch, followed by a “bypass” of some of the small intestine.  The creation of the small stomach pouch restricts how much food you eat before feeling uncomfortable, while the actual bypass limits the number of calories and nutrients your body absorbs.

Gastric banding includes placing a silicone band around the highest part of the stomach. The band is adjustable and can be loosened or tightened as needed over time.

Sleeve gastrectomy involves removal of the left side of the stomach. This creates a new stomach that is literally the size of a banana. This procedure involves no “rerouting” and is purely restrictive. The main difference between this and the gastric band is that it doesn’t involve placing an artificial device in the body.

7. When can I start exercising after surgery?

In order to get the most out of your weight loss surgery it’s going to take a lot of hard work on your part post-surgery. That includes working out on a regular basis. You want to get started as soon as possible, but not so soon you cause any issues with your surgical wounds. Talk with your doctor and closely follow orders.

8. Do I qualify for my insurance to cover some or all of the costs?

You may have to ask your insurance company this question, but your doctor will likely have some suggestions and advice in regards to qualifying for insurance coverage.

9. How much does bariatric surgery cost?

Your health insurance plan may cover most or all bariatric surgery costs. If your coverage does not include bariatric surgery, you’ll have to pay out of pocket. Even without insurance coverage, many people still feel that bariatric surgery is worth the investment because it improves quality of life, overall health and mobility, as well as the ability to make more money in the future.

On average, costs for gastric bypass surgery range between $20,000 and $30,000. The cost for gastric banding ranges between $14,000 and $18,000.

Bariatric Transportation

You can’t necessary control the costs of bariatric surgery, but you can control the cost of your non-emergency bariatric medical transportation services. There’s no need to overpay for a mediocre team of drivers when you can higher the best in Melbourne at competitive prices. Contact us today for a free quote on local and long distance transportation.