Weight Loss Surgery FAQs

We accept most insurances and have a cash pay option available for those who may not have coverage through their insurance company. We have a financial counselor who will work with you and your insurance company throughout every step of the surgery process. We’ll review your insurance policy to identify what we need to do to get your weight loss surgery financed in the most efficient way possible.

Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, offers a life-changing solution for individuals struggling with severe obesity and obesity-related health conditions. But who exactly qualifies for weight loss surgery? The answer is that nearly 30 million people in the U.S. meet the weight loss surgery criteria, but only about .5% of them end up having the surgery. 

To understand whether weight loss surgery might be an option, it's important to know the eligibility guidelines, the benefits, and the factors that can influence your decision. 

Eligibility for Weight Loss Surgery

The main factor determining eligibility for weight loss surgery is body mass index (BMI), a measure of body fat based on height and weight.

• BMI of 40 or greater: This indicates severe obesity, typically considered to be at least 100 pounds over a healthy weight for your height.
• BMI of 35 or greater with obesity-related health issues: This includes conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, sleep apnea, arthritis, and more. If you have a BMI in this range, along with one or more serious health conditions, surgery may be considered.

In addition to BMI, there are other factors to consider:

• Age: Adults in good overall health and have reached their full adult height are generally eligible. In some cases, teenagers who have completed puberty and meet certain criteria may also qualify for surgery.
• Health Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and joint pain related to obesity increase the likelihood of qualifying for surgery. The goal is not just to lose weight but to reduce or eliminate these health risks.
• Failed Weight Loss Attempts: If you've tried other weight loss methods (like dieting or exercising) without long-term success, weight loss surgery may be an option to help you achieve sustainable results.

Factors That May Limit Access to Weight Loss Surgery

While many people qualify for weight loss surgery, some factors can make it more challenging to access this treatment:

• Misconceptions about the Risks: Some people hesitate because they fear the risks of surgery. While bariatric weight loss surgery can carry risks, the benefits often outweigh them for individuals with severe obesity and related health conditions.
• Insurance Coverage: Not all insurance plans cover bariatric surgery, and each policy has its own guidelines and requirements.
• Substance Abuse or Severe Psychiatric Disorders: Individuals with uncontrolled substance abuse problems or severe mental health conditions may not be eligible for surgery until these issues are addressed. Mental health is a key component of a successful recovery after surgery.

The Screening Process

Before surgery, a comprehensive screening process ensures that you're a good candidate. This process includes:

• Nutritional Evaluation: A dietitian will assess your current eating habits and offer guidance on how your diet may need to change after surgery.
• Social Service Evaluation: Support systems are important for long-term success, and this evaluation helps assess your social and family support.
• Psychological Evaluation: Understanding your mental health, motivation, and readiness for the lifestyle changes that accompany surgery is critical for success.
• Medical and Surgical Screening: A complete medical evaluation helps identify conditions that could complicate surgery or recovery.

How to Know if You're Ready for Surgery

If you're considering weight loss surgery, your medical team will help you determine if you're ready. This will involve assessing:

• Your Medical History: This includes conditions like sleep apnea, heart disease, and joint pain, which may require additional treatments before surgery.
• Your Mental Health: The surgery requires significant behavioral changes, so being in good mental health is essential for long-term success.
• Commitment to Change: Weight loss surgery isn't a quick fix; it requires a long-term commitment to changing your eating habits, increasing physical activity, and attending follow-up appointments.

Achieve a Healthier, More Fulfilling Life

In short, many people qualify for weight loss surgery, especially those who are significantly overweight and dealing with health problems as a result. If you meet the medical guidelines and are motivated to make lasting lifestyle changes, surgery may be an effective tool to help you achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life. However, the decision should not be taken lightly. It’s important to thoroughly assess whether you’re ready for the physical, emotional, and lifestyle changes that come with surgery. 

At Iowa Weight Loss Specialists, we offer a range of services—from medical weight management and behavioral health support to patient support groups and community resources—to help you reach and sustain your weight loss goals.
 

Choosing your weight loss surgery surgeon is one of the most important decisions you can make in your journey to decide if surgery is right for you.  The process can seem daunting.  Don’t be afraid to ask questions about your provider's practice and experience, your life post-surgery, and anything else you’re concerned about. At Iowa Weight Loss Specialists, we’re here to address your concerns to ensure you are comfortable and confident with your decision.

Our dedicated bariatric surgeon, Dr. Todd Eibes, received his medical degree from the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, training with Dr. Ed Mason who is considered one of the founding fathers of Bariatric surgery. An accomplished doctor for over 20 years, Dr. Eibes began performing bariatric surgery in 2001.

Dr. Eibes has performed over 500 gastric bypasses, 650 lap-bands, and over 2,800 sleeve gastrectomies. Dr. Eibes’ patients typically lose 60-70% of excess weight after surgery with hard work and ongoing support from our weight management team. Dr. Eibes’ risk for major complications fall within the national average of 1-2% occurrence rate.

There are three major weight loss surgeries available today: the Gastric Sleeve, the Lap-Band, and the Gastric Bypass.

Iowa Weight Loss Specialists performs the Gastric Sleeve on our patients, because we believe the advantages of the surgery are greater than any of the other options and the downsides are far less. The risk of major post-operative complications with the Gastric Sleeve are less than any other weight loss surgery.

Please click on each link below to review the list of pros and cons of each procedure.

Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (Gastric Sleeve)

Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band (Lap-Band)

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

How Does Weight Loss Surgery Help With Diabetes?

For many people with type 2 diabetes, weight loss surgery can dramatically improve blood sugar control. Here’s how:

Significant Weight Loss

Most patients lose a large amount of weight after surgery, which can improve insulin sensitivity and help manage blood sugar levels.

Hormonal Changes

The surgery alters gut hormones, increasing hormones like GLP-1 that help with insulin production and improving how your body uses glucose.

Rapid Improvement

Patients often notice better blood sugar control soon after surgery, sometimes even before losing significant weight.

Diabetes Remission

Many individuals can achieve remission, meaning they no longer need diabetes medications after surgery.

How Does Weight Loss Surgery Work?

Weight loss surgery is typically recommended for individuals who are severely overweight and have not had success with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise. If you have type 2 diabetes and your weight is affecting your health, you may be a candidate. It’s essential to discuss your situation with a healthcare professional to determine the best option for you.

The surgery works by:

• Reducing stomach size: This limits food intake, making your stomach feel full more quickly.
• Changing how nutrients are absorbed: It decreases the number of calories your body can absorb.
• Altering gut hormones: This leads to better insulin sensitivity and more stable blood sugar levels.

Is Weight Loss Surgery a Permanent Cure for Diabetes?

While weight loss surgery can lead to significant improvements and even diabetes remission, it’s not always a permanent cure. Patients must maintain a healthy lifestyle after surgery. If weight is regained, diabetes symptoms may return, and medication might be needed again. However, many patients experience long-term success by making lifestyle changes.

How Quickly Can I Expect to See Blood Sugar Level Improvements?

Many patients notice improvements in their blood sugar levels soon after surgery. In fact, some see changes within days or weeks, even before losing a lot of weight. This can lead to a reduced need for diabetes medications shortly after the procedure.

Or you can read more about this topic in Dr. Eibes’ blog, “Can Weight Loss Surgery Reduce or Eliminate the Impact of Diabetes?”

For more information, watch the YouTube video below.

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Many people know that obesity can lead to chronic health issues like heart disease and diabetes, but fewer realize it can significantly affect fertility. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for women looking to conceive. Being overweight or obese can disrupt hormonal balance and interfere with ovulation, making it harder to get pregnant.

Excess weight affects hormones

Excess weight can lead to hormonal imbalances, particularly in women. Fat cells produce estrogen, and as body weight increases, so does estrogen production. An excess of estrogen can disrupt the hormonal signals that regulate the menstrual cycle, which may lead to irregular ovulation or even prevent ovulation entirely. This means that even if you are ovulating, the quality of your eggs might be affected.

The Effects of Being Overweight During Ovulation

Ovulation is crucial for conception. Studies show that women with a Body Mass Index (BMI) above 27 are three times more likely to experience anovulation, where no egg is released. If you are overweight, your chances of conceiving can significantly decrease. Weight loss has been shown to improve fertility in obese women.

Additional Benefits of Weight Loss Before Pregnancy

Significant weight loss before pregnancy can reduce the risk of serious complications, such as gestational diabetes and hypertensive disorders like preeclampsia. For women with conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), weight loss can also alleviate symptoms and improve fertility.

How Does Obesity Affect Pregnancy Loss Rates?

Being overweight not only makes it harder to conceive but also increases the risk of miscarriage. Studies have shown that obese women face higher rates of pregnancy loss, which can be emotionally devastating for couples trying to start a family.

Weight and IVF Fertility Treatments

If you are considering fertility treatments such as in-vitro fertilization (IVF), it’s important to know that excess weight can lower success rates. Research indicates that women with a higher BMI may have lower chances of achieving a live birth through IVF.

How Does Insulin Resistance Affect Fertility?

Excess weight can lead to insulin resistance, where the body struggles to manage blood sugar levels. This condition can further disrupt hormone levels and lead to issues like PCOS, which is a common cause of infertility characterized by irregular periods, obesity, and elevated male hormones.

How Much Weight Loss is Needed to Improve Fertility?

Even a modest amount of weight loss can enhance fertility. Losing 5-10% of your body weight can help restore hormonal balance, regulate ovulation, and improve egg quality.

For more information watch the YouTube video below.

Many women elect to have a Gastric Sleeve, because their obesity is preventing them from getting pregnant. You may become more fertile as you lose weight. Often, your obesity causes abnormal estrogen levels that can return to normal as you lose weight.  

It’s important that you wait until it’s safe for you to be pregnant after your surgery. Your birth control pills may not work around the time of your surgery due to the medication you receive with surgery. Remember to use other methods of birth control (barrier contraceptive) and talk with your family physician about this.

You should avoid pregnancy for the first 12 months after surgery due to your rapid weight loss. A pregnancy that occurs soon after weight loss surgery can have severe consequences for both the mother and the baby. Once you are over a year, your risks during pregnancy fall to significantly less than when you were morbidly obese. Your risk of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia are much lower than when you were morbidly obese. If you require a C-section during the delivery, the surgical risk is significantly less once you lose your excess weight.

An advantage of the Gastric Sleeve is that you continue to absorb nutrients normally, so your risk of vitamin deficiency is much less than with a gastric bypass. When all factors are considered, once you have your Sleeve and you have time to get your weight under control, your fertility increases and pregnancy becomes much safer for both mother and baby.

However, please do take the following precautions:

• Correct vitamin deficiencies before conception
• Add prenatal supplements (calcium citrate, iron, vitamin D)
• Pay attention to overall nutrition during first trimester
• Talk to high-risk OB/GYN for monitoring during pregnancy
• Check homocystein levels (Neural tube defects can occur from folic acid deficiency)
• Limit daily intake of Vitamin A to no more than 10,000 IU/day (Fetal malformations have been linked to daily exposure of 20,000 IU of Vitamin A from supplements)

If you struggle with sleep apnea and are overweight, you are not alone. Morbid obesity can cause sleep apnea and other respiratory problems that may result in chronic fatigue.

Obesity is one of the most important factors for the development of sleep apnea, which is when breathing suddenly stops because soft tissue in the back of the throat collapses and closes during sleep.

Studies have shown that weight loss surgery is an effective tool for treating obesity, and for preventing, treating and even resolving sleep apnea.

By losing just 10% of your body weight, you can decrease your risk of developing sleep apnea by over 25%.

Successful bariatric surgery is associated with the improvement or complete resolution of obstructive sleep apnea. Individuals that have had weight loss surgery report significant reductions in snoring and daytime sleepiness. Many individuals who had to use a CPAP before surgery do not require it months after their weight loss procedure.

Depression and anxiety are common among morbidly obese patients who have weight loss surgery. In a 2011 study, Jonathan Finks, an assistant professor of surgery of University Michigan and his co-authors observed that 46% of the patients receiving weight loss surgery had a psychiatric disorder.

They examined data from the Michigan Bariatric Surgery Collaborative that contains data of more than 26,000 patients who have undergone weight loss surgery since 2006. The surgeries included gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, gastric banding, and the duodenal switch (similar to gastric bypass, but keeps some stomach and passes most of the intestine).

Before the surgery, 72% of patients with depression used antidepressants. A year after bariatric surgery, the percentage of people taking antidepressants dropped to 60%. Finks added that the percentage of people responding to the surveys a year later dropped to just 31%.

While weight loss alone can’t cure clinical depression, most post-surgical patients do report a significant improvement in their mood and outlook on life.

Yes, losing weight can help ease the pain and reduce the severity of arthritis, especially if you are overweight or obese. Whether you have osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), or other forms of arthritis, shedding extra pounds will positively impact your joints. Here’s how:

1. Less Pressure on Your Joints

When you're overweight, the added weight puts extra pressure on your joints, particularly those in the knees, hips, and lower back. Even a modest amount of weight loss can make a big difference. Studies have demonstrated that for every pound of weight lost, there is a corresponding reduction of four pounds of pressure on the knees. So, losing just 10 pounds can relieve 40 pounds of pressure from your knees, which helps reduce pain and improve mobility.

2. Joint Pain Relief

Losing weight can reduce arthritis pain, especially in cases of knee osteoarthritis. Research shows that weight loss improves pain, function, and quality of life for people with arthritis. In one study, people who lost 10-20% of their body weight experienced more significant pain relief than those who lost only a small amount. So, greater weight loss can lead to better outcomes, including less back, hip, and knee joint pain and improved ability to move around.

3. Reduced Joint Inflammation

Fat tissue in the body isn’t just a passive store of energy—it can produce chemicals that cause inflammation. This inflammation can worsen arthritis symptoms and make autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis worse. By losing weight, you can lower the amount of fat in your body and, in turn, reduce overall inflammation. This can help decrease pain and swelling in your joints.

4. Better Disease Activity Control

For people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA), losing weight can improve disease activity. Studies have shown that people with RA who lost just 10 pounds (about 5 kg) were three times as likely to experience less disease activity compared to those who didn’t lose weight. This means that losing even a small amount of weight could help you manage your arthritis more effectively.

5. Improved Chance of Remission

If you have rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis, being overweight can make it harder to achieve remission, which is when symptoms are minimal or absent. Research has shown that obese people with RA have lower chances of reaching and maintaining remission, even with the help of medications. Losing weight can improve your chances of achieving remission and reduce the severity of your arthritis symptoms.

6. Lower Uric Acid Levels and Fewer Acute Gout Attacks

If you have gout, weight loss can also be beneficial. Gout is caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood, which can lead to painful joint flare-ups. Studies show that people with gout who lose weight have lower levels of uric acid, leading to fewer gout attacks.

7. Slower Cartilage Damage in Osteoarthritis

In osteoarthritis (OA), the cartilage cushioning the joints can break down over time, causing pain and stiffness. Research has shown that weight loss can slow down this process. A study of people with knee OA found that those who lost weight had less cartilage deterioration over time. The more weight they lost, the slower the progression of the disease.

Less Weight Means Less Discomfort

Losing weight can significantly improve your arthritis symptoms by reducing pressure on your joints, easing pain, or lowering inflammation. Even modest weight loss can make a real difference in managing arthritis, and the benefits go beyond just feeling better. If you’re living with arthritis, losing weight could be a key part of managing your condition and improving your overall quality of life.

If you are overweight and have arthritis, consider talking to a healthcare provider or weight loss expert for personalized advice and support. At Iowa Weight Loss Specialists, we can help you develop a safe and effective plan to achieve your weight loss goals and improve your arthritis symptoms.

Class III obesity is a serious medical condition where a person's weight is significantly higher than normal. Healthcare providers use Body Mass Index (BMI) to determine obesity levels. A BMI of 40 or higher indicates morbid obesity, while a BMI of 35 or higher can also qualify if there are related health complications.

Understanding BMI

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a calculation based on your height and weight. It helps categorize individuals into different weight classes. A BMI of 40 or more is classified as Class III obese, meaning that the individual has an increased risk of serious health issues. BMI is a useful tool, but it's important to remember that it doesn't capture all aspects of health.

Health Risks Associated with Class III Obesity

Class III obesity may significantly raise the risk of several serious health problems, including:

• Type 2 Diabetes: Excess weight can lead to insulin resistance, a key factor in developing type 2 diabetes.
• Heart Disease: Obesity can increase the likelihood of heart conditions, including heart attacks, congestive heart failure, and strokes.
• Sleep Apnea: This condition, often associated with obesity, causes breathing to stop and start during sleep.
• Certain Types of Cancer: Being Class III obese is linked to an increased risk of various cancers, including breast, colon, and uterine cancer.
• High Blood Pressure: Extra weight strains the heart, leading to hypertension.
• Osteoarthritis: Excess weight can lead to joint pain and deterioration, particularly in weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips.
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Obesity can worsen acid reflux and heartburn.
• Infertility: Obesity can impact hormonal balance, affecting fertility in both men and women.

Impact on Life Expectancy

Individuals who are Class III obese may have a reduced life expectancy. Studies suggest that they can live up to 14 years less than those who are at a normal weight. This reduction in life span highlights the critical nature of addressing morbid obesity.

Physical Limitations

Class III obesity can severely limit mobility. Everyday activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, or even playing with children, can become challenging. This physical limitation can lead to a more sedentary lifestyle, which causes additional health issues.

Additional Assessment Tools

Healthcare providers often use other measurements to assess obesity. One such tool is waist circumference. For women, a waist size greater than 35 inches and for men, a waist size over 40 inches indicates a higher risk for health problems related to obesity. This measurement complements BMI and provides additional insight into an individual’s health.

Managing Morbid Obesity

The good news is that Class III obesity is manageable and treatable. Along with lifestyle changes, bariatric surgery has emerged as a safe and effective method for meaningful weight loss. Many patients experience improvement or even resolution of obesity-related medical conditions after undergoing surgery.

Take the First Step, Seek Treatment

Understanding Class III obesity is crucial for addressing this significant health issue. It’s essential to recognize that Class III obesity is not just a personal failing; it is a complex medical condition that requires comprehensive treatment, lifestyle changes, and support. Overcoming the stigma and adopting effective management strategies will improve health outcomes and quality of life.

Your timeline for surgery will all depend on your insurance requirements, as well as your compliance with program requirements. The number of required supervised diet visits varies based on individual insurance policy. Your participation in supervised diet visits and progress toward goals set by our providers is critical to moving forward in the surgery process.

On average, most patients return to work in 2-3 weeks. You may need more time off if you have a strenuous, physical job like a firefighter or construction worker.

How long you will be off work after surgery is mostly determined by how weak and tired you feel. Your calories will be limited, plus you will be healing from a big surgery. The patients who don’t push their recovery find they have the fewest issues and challenges and actually get back to work the quickest.

Patients absolutely cannot return to work if still requiring medications that impact alertness and decision making.

Gastric sleeve surgery involves surgically reducing the size of the stomach, which can lead to significant weight loss by limiting food intake and altering digestion. While these procedures can lead to improved health and a better quality of life, it’s essential to understand the risks involved. 

Over the last 20 years, we have found that weight loss surgery has become increasingly safe. When you look at the diseases that most patients live with such as diabetes, heart disease, renal problems, and sleep apnea, it’s by far safer now to have surgery than to live with these medical problems.

General Risks Associated With Weight Loss Surgery

Like any surgery, bariatric surgery carries both immediate and long-term risks. Here are some, but not all, potential risks:

• Bleeding: Hemorrhage can happen either inside the abdomen or within the stomach, with an occurrence rate of about 6%.
• Infection: As with any surgical procedure, infections can develop post-surgery.
• Blood Clots: There is an increased risk of blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis), which can travel to the lungs.
• Leaks: Leaks may occur at the staple line in the stomach, potentially leading to severe infections.
• Gallbladder Problems: Rapid weight loss can lead to gallstones in some patients.
• Lung Problems: Conditions like atelectasis, or partial lung collapse, are possible after surgery.
• Dehiscence:  If the stitched or stapled areas of the incision separate, it can lead to complications such as infection or delayed healing.
• Anesthesia Complications: Issues related to anesthesia and medications can also arise during and after surgery.
• Pulmonary problems: There is a risk of heart complications, including heart attacks.
• Bowel Blockage: Blockages in the intestines can occur, requiring further treatment.
• Poor Wound Healing: Some patients may experience issues with healing after the surgery.

Specific Risks With Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Sleeve gastrectomy, one of the most common weight loss surgeries, has unique risks, including:

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This surgery can increase the risk of reflux or worsen pre-existing conditions.
• Stricture: Some patients may develop a narrowing of the stomach sleeve, affecting food passage.

Potential Long-Term Complications

Long-term complications can arise after weight loss surgery, including:

• Nutrient Deficiencies: Patients may need ongoing monitoring and supplements to prevent deficiencies in vitamins and minerals.
• Weight Regain: Weight gain is possible if patients do not follow their healthcare provider's recommendations.

Can These Risks Lead to Serious Outcomes?

While most complications can be managed, some can lead to serious health issues, including:

• Death: Though rare, it’s important to acknowledge that any surgical procedure carries this risk.
• Spleen Injury: Accidental injury to the spleen during surgery can occur, requiring further intervention.

Weight loss surgery can be life-changing for many, leading to significant health improvements. However, it’s vital to understand the risks involved and to work closely with your healthcare team to ensure the best possible outcomes. If you have further questions or concerns, schedule an appointment with Iowa Weight Loss Specialists for more personalized information and support.

Reconstructive surgery, also known as body contouring, is a procedure aimed at removing excess skin and fat after significant weight loss. Many bariatric surgery patients find that after losing weight, they have loose skin that can affect their appearance and quality of life.

Why do people need reconstructive surgery after weight loss?

Determining the need for reconstructive surgery is a personal decision. When people lose significant amounts of weight, especially after bariatric surgery, they may be left with excess skin. This can happen because the skin stretches to accommodate the increased weight and may not fully bounce back after the weight is lost. This loose skin can lead to issues like:

• Hygiene problems: Excess skin can make it difficult to keep certain areas clean, increasing the risk of skin infections.
• Clothing fit: Finding clothes that fit comfortably can be challenging with excess skin.
• Emotional impact: If loose skin affects your self-esteem or body image.

Will everyone need reconstructive surgery?

Not everyone who loses weight will need reconstructive surgery. Whether or not you require this procedure depends on several factors, including:

• Amount of weight lost: Generally, the more weight you lose, the more likely you will have excess skin that may need surgical removal.
• Skin elasticity: Some people have skin that bounces back better than others. Factors like age and genetics play a role in skin elasticity.
• Areas affected: Common areas for extra skin after weight loss include the abdomen, arms, thighs, and breasts. Depending on the location of the excess skin, different procedures such as tummy tucks, arm lifts, thigh lifts, or breast lifts may be recommended.

When should I consider reconstructive surgery?

It's usually recommended to wait at least 12-18 months after your weight loss surgery before considering reconstructive surgery. This allows your body time to stabilize after weight loss and helps determine whether the skin will retract.

Will insurance cover reconstructive surgery?

Insurance coverage for reconstructive surgery can vary. Some plans may cover some costs if the excess skin causes medical issues. Still, many insurance companies consider it a cosmetic procedure and may not cover it fully. Be sure to check with your insurance provider for specifics.

What factors affect skin elasticity and recovery?

Several factors influence how well your skin will rebound after weight loss:

• Amount of stretch: More significant weight loss typically results in more excess skin.
• Age: Younger skin tends to be more elastic and has a better chance of bouncing back.
• Lifestyle factors: Sun exposure, smoking, nutrition, and hydration can all affect skin health and elasticity. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help improve skin condition.

Is reconstructive surgery the final step in my weight loss journey?

For many, reconstructive surgery can be the final step in completing their weight loss journey. It can help eliminate excess skin and fat, leading to a more contoured appearance and boosting confidence.

Reconstructive surgery after significant weight loss is a personal choice. It can help enhance your quality of life and address physical and emotional concerns related to excess skin. If you have further questions about this or other weight loss issues, schedule an appointment with Iowa Weight Loss Specialists for more personalized guidance and support.

The weight you can expect to lose after weight loss surgery varies depending on several factors, including the type of surgery, your starting weight, age, health, and your commitment to post-surgical lifestyle changes. On average, patients lose 60% of their excess weight. 

Bariatric surgery promotes weight loss by significantly reducing the size of the stomach. This reduction in stomach size helps curb hunger and limit the amount of food an individual can consume at one time. It's crucial to understand that weight loss surgery is not a quick fix, but rather a valuable tool that can assist individuals battling obesity in achieving significant and sustainable weight reduction.

In the initial 1-2 years following this procedure, most patients experience substantial weight loss, often losing around 70% of their excess weight. Subsequently, the rate of weight loss typically slows down. However, long-term results demonstrate that individuals can maintain a weight loss of approximately 50% of their excess weight.

Factors Affecting Weight Loss

• Body Mass Index (BMI): The higher your BMI, the more weight you will lose, especially in the first few years after surgery.
• Health and Age: Overall health and age can impact how quickly and effectively you lose weight.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: To successfully lose weight and keep it off, it's essential to make lasting changes to your diet, exercise routine, and daily habits.

Weight Loss Timeline

In the first 6 months after surgery, most patients experience rapid weight loss. Over the next 12-18 months, the weight loss continues, but at a slower, more steady pace. After 1-2 years, most patients stabilize at their final weight, with long-term weight loss around 50-70% of excess weight.

Example:

If you weigh 250 lbs and your ideal weight is 145 lbs, your excess weight is 105 lbs. If you lose 60% of that excess weight, you will lose approximately 61 lbs. Similarly, if you weigh 400 lbs and your ideal weight is 195 lbs, your excess weight is 205 lbs. A 60% loss would result in approximately 125 lbs. of weight loss.

Motivation and Support

Your success in losing weight largely depends on your motivation and how well you follow your doctor's advice. Access to support groups, nutritional counseling, and regular follow-up care are important for long-term weight maintenance.

Find Out How We Can Help

The exact amount of weight you lose after surgery depends on several factors, but most patients can expect to lose 60% of their excess weight. Staying committed to a healthy lifestyle and following your doctor’s advice will help you achieve lasting success.

Deciding on weight loss surgery is a huge step, and as a leading weight loss clinic in Iowa, Iowa Weight Loss Specialists aim to ensure the entire process is clear and supportive. From our introductory free weight loss class through surgery to continuous support and resources, we are committed to assisting you at every stage of your healthy weight loss journey!

Ready To Take The First Step?

Request for Surgical Weight Loss Consultation
 

While some patients regain weight after weight loss surgery, it is not inevitable. Many factors contribute to weight regain, but with the right approach, it can be managed and prevented. After bariatric surgery, patients typically lose 60% of their excess weight in the first 1-2 years. However, some may experience a gradual regain, usually around 20-25% of the weight lost over a ten year period.

Weight regain can happen for several reasons, including changes in diet and exercise habits, as well as the natural expansion of the stomach pouch over time. Additionally, psychological factors such as stress eating or emotional eating, or physical changes like hormonal fluctuations can also contribute to weight gain.

Who is at risk for weight regain? 

Certain groups may be more likely to experience weight regain, including younger patients, those with physical conditions that limit activity, or individuals who experience emotional challenges after surgery.

How can weight regain be prevented? 

To prevent weight regain, it’s essential to maintain healthy eating habits and a consistent exercise routine. Follow-up care with your bariatric team and participation in support groups can also provide vital guidance and motivation. Here are some key strategies:

• Eat smaller, regular meals and avoid overeating or snacking.
• Exercise consistently to maintain muscle mass and keep metabolism active.
• Join a support group to stay connected with others on a similar journey.

How much weight is regained? 

While weight regain after bariatric surgery is common, the amount of weight regained tends to vary over time. On average, patients may experience a gradual increase in weight in the years following surgery. On average patients may be expected to regain 20-25% of the weight lost in the first two years after surgery over a ten-year period. However, a lot of our surgery patients follow up with the clinic over the long term and transition into a medical weight loss program. Since the availability of and growing research about maintaining weight loss with medication like GLP-1’s, more patients have been successful at keeping off unwanted weight after surgery.

Let Us Help You Keep the Weight Off

With continued support and lifestyle changes, weight regain can be minimized, and long-term success is achievable. Weight loss surgery provides an important tool, but maintaining progress requires an ongoing commitment to healthy habits. From medical weight management (such as behavioral health support) to patient support groups and community resources, Iowa Weight Loss Specialists is here to ensure you achieve and maintain your weight loss goals.
 

During the Gastric Sleeve procedure, a bariatric surgeon removes approximately 75% of the stomach laparoscopically, so that the stomach takes the shape of a sleeve. This helps with weight loss by restricting food intake and reducing hunger.

Ideally, with proper diet, exercise, and support, bariatric surgery patients will not need medications for weight loss. However, in some cases due to lifestyle choices in the years after weight loss surgery, patients may be prescribed medications for weight loss.