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FAQ’s

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions patients have about bariatric surgery.  If you have any other questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, we would love to hear from you.

Click on a question below to see the answer.

What is morbid obesity?

Obesity results from having an abnormally high proportion of body fat which exceeds the body’s skeletal and physical standards.  Obesity develops into morbid obesity when an individual is 100 pounds or more over their ideal bodyweight and has a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 40 or higher.  Morbid obesity affects an estimated 10 million Americans; a number that has nearly doubled in the last 30 years.  Morbid obesity includes one or more serious health conditions or diseases that are a direct result of the excess weight an individual is carrying.  These are known as comorbidities.  Co-morbidities result in an individual experiencing some type of significant physical ailment, which in some cases can lead to death.  With over 10 million sufferers today, morbid obesity is becoming more than just a serious disease, it’s a national epidemic.

Let our bariatric team help you overcome your battle with obesity!  Remember, you do have options.  We want to see you succeed on your weight loss journey.

Does insurance cover weight loss surgery?

Having health insurance does not guarantee you will be covered for weight loss surgery.  Since the cost of this procedure can be very expensive, most patients would not even consider it an option if it were not for insurance or low interest financing.  Although weight loss surgery is still considered an elective procedure, it may be covered by your insurance carrier.  For this reason, it’s important that you fully understand what “is” and “is not” covered by your insurance provider.

Before you attempt to get authorization, here are some helpful hints to assist you with the authorization process:

  • Read and understand your insurance provider’s “certificate of coverage.” 
  • Get a referral and copy of medical records from your primary care physician in order to substantiate your claim.
  • Keep accurate, detailed records of visits to healthcare providers. Also, save receipts for any exercise equipment, fitness programs, diet centers, weight loss drugs and anything else that can assist in the authorization process.

With so many different insurance policies and types of plans among insurance providers, it’s important that you understand the authorization requirements for your individual policy.The insurance company will typically ask for the following information and documentation (Be prepared to provide these upon request):

  • Current weight, height, and BMI.
  • Verification from a physician that the patient is 100 lbs or more over their ideal body weight.
  • The surgery recommended along with any post operative follow-up care, including nutritional and psychological support.
  • A detailed medical history including co-morbidities (i.e., the presence of one or more diseases in addition to a primary disease).
  • Six (6) months of medical records including a patient evaluation, treatments performed to date, and specific types of lab work done.
  • Six (6) months of a documented dieting and exercise routine (must include dates and results).
  • A psychological/psychiatric evaluation.

Once you have submitted your claim it’s a simple matter of waiting for your insurance provider to respond.  At times it can be a frustrating and discouraging process, but don’t give up. If your claim is denied you have the right to appeal the decision.  Being denied coverage for surgery happens to many patients and this initial set back does not mean that you’ve reached the end of the road.  Some insurance providers may initially deny bariatric surgery claims automatically the first time they’re submitted, and can be more receptive to follow-up appeal letters.

If you have questions about the insurance process, please don’t hesitate to contact our office.  Let our experienced bariatric team help you with the authorization process.

Is bariatric surgery safe?

A surgical procedure of any kind will always involve a certain degree of risk, and bariatric surgery is no exception.  In the past, weight loss surgery was viewed as extremely risky.  However, with the development of new procedures and advancements in technology, bariatric surgery is a relatively safe solution to morbid obesity.  Today, the overall risk of weight loss surgery is fairly low with most patients experiencing few, if any, complications.  This is not to minimize the fact that this is still a serious operation, which should only be considered after all other weight loss options have been exhausted.

Once a surgeon has determined that you are a candidate for weight loss surgery, it’s very important that as a patient you reveal all pertinent medical information to your surgical team.  The bariatric surgeon will assess the risks involved with your particular surgery and take every precaution necessary to ensure your safety and to reduce the risk of complications.

Regardless of the type of weight loss surgery, it’s important that the decision to undergo surgery is carefully thought out.  It’s imperative to weigh the risks of surgery with the long-term risks of remaining obese.  Discuss any concerns you might have with your surgical team and your outside support system (family, friends).

What kind of lifestyle changes will I have to make following surgery?

Aside from the most obvious change that takes place with respect to diet, there are a number of other lifestyle changes that have to occur in order to experience success on your weight loss journey.

Eating Habits

  • Avoid alcoholic beverages.
  • Avoid high fat, high fiber foods.
  • Chew slowly during meals.
  • Don’t drink with meals (it makes you feel full too fast).
  • Keep snacking between meals to a minimum.
  • Omit desserts and sugary foods.

Home/Work Life

Your post surgery physical activity level will likely be determined by the type of procedure you have undergone.  Most patients can return to work within 1-3 weeks following laparoscopic surgery, while open surgical procedures may be slightly longer.  Exercise can typically resume within six weeks or less after surgery.

Follow-up Care

Long term follow-up care will be required annually and sometimes more frequently depending on post-surgical body functions.  There will be frequent testing to determine:

  • Nutritional levels (vitamin B-12, iron, and folate levels, etc.).
  • Is the patient anemic (i.e., low red blood cell count).

Support

Having the support of family and friends is important; however, equally important is for a person to surround themselves with other weight loss surgery patients who understand the intricacies of weight loss surgery.  Weight loss surgery is not a quick fix to repair the years of emotional pain caused by being morbidly obese.  The support groups are merely a way for patients to share their challenges and/or success’ with others who have been through similar challenges.  In fact, there is typically a big difference between the patients who are involved in a support group on a regular basis and those who attempt their weight loss journey alone.  Our surgical team will provide you with a list of support groups to fit your needs.

Pregnancy

For the first 18-24 months after weight loss surgery it’s important that women of childbearing age do not conceive.  Pregnancy can be taxing on the body and the potential for fetal damage increases.  During this waiting period, it’s important to give the body time to heal and recuperate.  For this reason, a surgeon will typically advise you to take every precaution necessary to reduce the chances of becoming pregnant.

Are you a candidate for weight loss surgery?

With over 6 million Americans suffering from morbid obesity, the need for weight loss surgery has become more apparent.  Morbid obesity brings with it a plethora of health issues that if left untreated will substantially shorten life expectancy.  In fact, morbidly obese adults (those individuals whose weight is twice the ideal amount) are twice as likely to have an early death as compared to a non-obese adult.

Would you like to know if you are a candidate for weight loss surgery?  To determine if you are a candidate for surgery, it’s important to know what medically classifies an individual as “morbidly obese”.  The following criteria are characteristic of a morbidly obese individual and could qualify you for weight loss surgery:

  • 100 pounds or more over their ideal body weight.
  • BMI (Body Mass Index) of over 40.
  • A BMI of 35-40 accompanied by significant life threatening medical conditions such as Type II diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and severe sleep apnea.
  • Inability to maintain a healthy body weight for a sustained period of time after numerous attempts to achieve weight loss with diet, exercise, medication, hypnosis, therapy, or a combination of methods.
  • Overweight for at least 5 years with many failed attempts at losing the excess weight.

Weight loss surgery is often the only option for an obese individual to improve their health.  In fact for many patients, the risk of death from not having weight loss surgery is much greater than the potential risks associated with the procedure itself.  It’s important that you discuss all of your concerns with our bariatric team. Remember, we’re in this with you, every step of the way.

Please Note: It’s important to remember that weight loss surgery is not the answer for everyone who suffers from obesity.  The operation is an elective procedure so it’s imperative that you are well informed on the potential risks and benefits involved.  Also, the surgery is not a guarantee to produce and maintain long term weight loss.  It’s only the beginning of a lifelong commitment to healthy living that is required if you are to succeed.  Following the operation, you will begin the process of making important lifestyle and behavior changes in order to increase your chances of experiencing lasting weight loss and continued good health.

  • In May 2021 I had a mild stroke(T.I.A) at the age of 39!!!! At the time of the stroke the doctors weighed me in at 335 pounds! The day of the surgery which was March 24th of this year I weighed 305 pounds. It hasn't been 6 months, and I lost 121 pounds! I eat plant-based, no bread, sugar, pizza, soda, fried foods as well as no meat. I was on diabetes medication; I had sleep apnea; I was on 3 blood pressure meds; along with 2 cholesterol meds! I'm no longer a diabetic, so I don't need the medication(You can get rid of diabetes!!) I got off all blood pressure, and high cholesterol meds; as well I no longer have sleep apnea (yes you can get rid of sleep apnea!!!!). As well I had zero complications from the surgery!! People will try to give you horror stories about people they know or heard of who had the surgery. HAVE THE SURGERY ANYWAYS!!!!!! Special thanks to Dr. Michael Williams, and his team (Michael Andrews, Dr. Curtis, and Tiffany)! Dr. Michael Williams performed the surgery!

    LLevi I

  • If you're thinking about getting a Bariatric surgery done, I certainly recommend Dr. Williams and Dr. Curtis. They are very knowledgeable and will guide you through your journey.

    I opted to get the sleeve done. My insurance required that I have a 6 month diet plan prior so I went to see Dr. Williams and Dr. Curtis every month to complete this.

    The ladies in the office are also ALL fantastic. They answer any questions you have and make you feel comfortable. I loved getting to see them monthly. They got to know me and my baby (she had to tag along for a lot of the visits) and have made this process an easy one. Rose, who handles the insurance and scheduling of the surgery has also been absolutely wonderful. She helped me to make sure that I could have surgery when my family would be in town.

    Before going anywhere else, make a visit. You certainly will not regret it! It could be the best decision you've ever made. It was for me.

    AAshley N.

  • Dr. Michael Williams is here to help in every way.. He’s extremely confident in his skilled surgical procedure. He puts you at ease and completes his job with excellence...I love the staff and the results! Dr. Michael Williams is the best practice.

    GGeorge C.

  • My bariatric surgery was the best thing I ever did for myself. I went from 252 lbs. to 130 lbs. Went from a size 32 to a size 6. My A1C has been staying in the normal range and I have been able to stop several meds. My GP practically does cartwheels when I come in because I have kept the weight off since 2014

    JJan

  • I had gastric bypass surgery on March 31 2008 and, not to sound cheesy, but it's one of the BEST decisions I've ever made. I was actually pretty healthy prior to having surgery - minus being about 110 lbs over weight - so, as silly as it may seem, my motivation for the operation was about 80% fashion based and 20% of just plain ole tired of being fat! I've always loved clothes and fashion but I absolutely hated shopping. There were only 2... maybe 3 stores I could find clothes in my size. I wanted to be able to walk into any mall and shop in any and every store in the building.

    When people ask me am I happy with the results I can honestly say "Yes!!!". I am now able to do what I wanted to accomplish. My dream was to be a size 12 and I have exceeded my own goal and have maintained my weight for the last 5 months. When you set a personal goal you have to make sure it's just that - personal - because if you base your decision to have this surgery to make someone else happy or if your decision has something to do with an aspect that YOU cannot control, no matter how small you get, you may never be satisfied with the results.

    The first few weeks are hard with all the protein shakes, sugar-free this and that, baby sips, chicken broth, dry mouth, and constant worry if you made the right decision. But, it's SOOOO worth it! I PROMISE! I use to have a pair of size 14 jeans hanging on my wall; they were my "motivation" jeans. I had to give them away to Goodwill last year because they were to big - THAT was my "WOW" moment. I encourage you find one for yourself...

    Weight prior to surgery: 273
    Clothes size: 22
    Shoe size: 11
    Bra size: 40 C/D

    Weight post surgery: 148-151
    Clothes size: 6 or 8
    Shoe size: 10 or 9 1/2 (amazing!!!)
    Bra size: 34 B (not so amazing *sad face*)

    AAnonymous

  • My name is Sharon Clark and for 5 years I struggled with obesity, I was on medications for high blood pressure, diabetes, and my mobility was limited due to severe knee problems.

    I met with Dr. Michael Williams in September of 2019 and he explained the weight loss options available to me and we decided that the gastric sleeve was the best option for me. I had my surgery on December 30, 2019, and I must say that this was the best decision I could have made for myself.

    To date, I have lost 109 pounds, I no longer have high blood pressure, or diabetes, and I am able to walk without any assistance, this surgery has truly changed my life. I would like to thank Dr. Michael Williams and his staff for their support during this journey.

    SSharon Clark

  • I have been a patient of Dr. Michael Williams for almost 7 years and I have always had the best care and outcome from him.

    In September 2013 I had the gastric sleeve procedure. I weighed 300 lbs, had sleep apnea, and high blood pressure. My blood sugar was also high. After the surgery, I was on 3 weeks of a liquid diet then I slowly added soft foods. I have lost 100 lbs and have kept it off. My sleep apnea is gone, I have no more high blood pressure and my blood sugar is normal.

    I'm very grateful to Dr. Williams for giving me a second chance at a healthier life. I have referred several of my friends to him, and they have all had a successful outcome from their surgeries.

    If you're thinking about having a weight loss procedure done, I would highly recommend Dr. Michael Williams.

    LLinda

  • I’m simply going to say that I’ll be looking forward to being able to enjoy some extra years with my beautiful and loving wife of 43 years.


    MY JOURNEY

    22-Mar-2007:
    K305-0 / W314-0
    Had lap-band surgery.

    2-May-2007:
    K270-35
    My band was tightened to 4.0cc and I have lost a total of 35 lbs. since 22-Mar-2007.

    8-Jun-2007:
    W276-38
    My band was tightened to 6.0cc.

    17-Jul-2007:
    W269-45
    My band was tightened to 7.0cc.

    17-Aug-2007:
    K255-50
    My total weight loss is now 50 lbs. I have definitely changed the type of food that I eat and the quantity of such. I can really eat anything that I want, but I seem to gravitate to ground steak, fish & chicken with a small amount of vegetables.

    04-Oct-2007:
    K250.0-55.0
    My total weight loss is now 55 lbs. and I have stayed there for the past 6-weeks. I’ve gone from a size 3XL shirt to a size XL. My waist size is now 44” – down from 52”. My blood studies look great. I’m no longer Diabetic! My recent Stress Test was outstanding for my age.

    07-Nov-2007:
    W256-58
    It was decided that another 0.5cc (7.5cc total) should be added to my band. Now if I eat too fast, my small stomach will hurt for about a minute or less. However, I can still eat a normal restaurant sized meal, if, I skip the salad & bread. My blood pressure is now normal – 115/70 to 130/80.

    03-Mar-2008:
    K245-60 / W253-61
    It was decided to add another 0.5cc to my band. Dr. William says that I now have 8.5cc total. I now notice that I’m belching more and seem to be eating smaller food portions.

    22-Apr-2008:
    I had a facelift, eyelid & browlift surgery - $14,000! No question about it, I look 15 years younger from the front and 68 from the rear. My 03-Mar-2008 tightening has not made any change in weight loss.

    11-Jun-2008
    K247-58 / W260-54
    I put on 5 lbs. during the past 2 months, so another 0.5cc was added to my band, for a total of 9.0cc. 10cc is normal and the band can be overfilled to a max of 12cc. My weight gain has been caused by eating too many calories – that simple. I notice that I’m now belching after I swallow a mouthful of water. The extra added 0.5cc hasn’t had any affect on my weight loss.

    20-Aug-2008
    K262-43 / W266-48
    At this point in my life, it’s very obvious that the Lap-Band is nothing more than a tool to help me loose weight. Because of lower-back problems, I have not been exercising on a regular basis. So, I end up sitting in front of my computer all day and snacking. Today Dr. Williams is going to add another 0.5cc to my band for a total of 9.5cc.

    20-May-2009
    K255-50 / W262-52
    A decision was made to add more Saline to my lap-band. My total is now 9.65cc. I now notice that I’m belching a little more than usual and eating a little less. I’m told that belching is good. Dr. Williams is talking about going to the normal 10.0cc level, but I’m not sure I want to do that. When I question his reasoning, he just smiles and ask me how often how often do I vomit – I don’t know what makes him think that I want to start... 19-Sep-2009 - Since this last adjustment, I have not loss or gained any weight. It's basically because I'm not being selective when it comes to the type of food that I'm shoving in the orifice below my nose...

  • Dr Williams is a wonderful surgeon. I'm so very grateful for all the time, hard work, and effort he made in order to become a physician and help save lives. I had a ruptured appendix and peritonitis and he took excellent care of me. Just prior to my surgery, I had multiple nurses tell me that he is the surgeon they would pick for their loved ones and that he is awesome. I agree completely. He personally checked on me every day I was in the hospital even on the weekend. For the follow up, I had no wait time. Please keep in mind the nature of his job, emergency surgeries become priority and could affect wait times which would not be his fault.
    Thank you, Dr Williams. I appreciate you and will keep you and your family in my prayers. I am extremely grateful that you helped save my life.

    JJen Gillespie

  • Dr. Williams is a very skilled surgeon. While I was at Northside Cherokee many nurses discussed he would be the one to do their surgery. I had a gastric sleeve. Don’t expect a fabulous bedside manner, he is not talkative. But he is more than willing to answer your questions without seeming rushed. I am five daysPost surgery and have really had no complications Related to the surgery. I was surprised though that neither of the hospital nor the doctors office have called to see how I am.

    SSuzanne F.

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