|
|
Frequently Asked Questions
About:
- Education classes
- Gastric bypass
- Questions to ask your insurance company
Education classes
What is the 12 week educational program?
A series of 12 classes (1 hour each for 12 weeks) taught by registered dietitians, behavioral psychologists and exercise instructors.
- you will learn about weight management
- you will be asked to change your diet, lose weight, and begin to exercise
* Day and evening classes are offered.
What is the pre-op education class?
A program taught by registered dietitians and nurses to help you prepare for surgery.
The class is held the 2nd Friday of each month from 8:30-11:30 a.m.
Will I receive a bill for education classes or other services?
Many insurance companies do not cover the cost of education or other services. A claim will be submitted, and you will receive a bill for any unpaid balance.
Gastric bypass
How will gastric bypass help me lose weight?
Gastric bypass will reduce the size of your stomach so you do not eat as much AND will bypass part of your small intestine so you absorb less fat.
How much will I be able to eat?
The normal stomach holds 40 ounces or 5 cups of fluid. During surgery your stomach will be reduced to the size of an egg. Your new stomach will hold about 2 ounces or ¼ cup. Meal size will start at 2 ounces, and gradually increase to 4-5 ounces three times a day.
What will my diet be like?
To prevent vomiting and breakdown of the staple line, and allow your food to be properly digested, you will start on liquids, and then advance to puree and soft foods. After about two weeks you will slowly start to eat solid food, and after about three months you will be eating many types of food.
How much weight will I lose?
Most people lose 50% to 70% of their excess body weight in the first 12 to 18 months after surgery. If you do not follow the diet and exercise plan, however, you can have little or no weight loss or can regain some or all of the weight you lost.
What changes will I have to make after surgery?
- eat a high-protein, low-fat diet
- eat small portions
- eliminate sugar and sweets, carbonated drinks and alcohol
- come for regular doctor visits
- take vitamins and minerals for the rest of your life
- exercise regularly
Will there be changes in my medication?
- You will need to stop herbal preparations at least two weeks before surgery.
- You will need to crush or take your medication in a liquid form for about a month after surgery. Please call your primary care physician before surgery and ask to have any once a day extended release medicine changed over to a liquid or pill that can be crushed.
- You will need to stop hormone replacement therapy or birth control medications with estrogen for at least a month before surgery and two months after surgery. Plan to use another form of contraception.
- You will need to tell us if you are taking aspirin, Coumadin or other blood-thinning medication.
- You will need to start taking multivitamins.
How long will I be in the hospital after surgery?
Most people go home from the hospital 3-5 days after surgery.
Can I stay alone when I go home?
You will need someone to help you around your home for at least a week when you leave the hospital.
When can I drive?
You should expect not to drive for at least 2 weeks after surgery. The doctor will decide if you are ready at your two-week follow-up visit.
How long will I be out of work?
Most people return to work within 3 weeks after surgery, however, you will be restricted from lifting heavy objects for 6-8 weeks.
When can I get pregnant?
You must wait for at least one year after surgery. Due to nutritional and vitamin deficiencies, getting pregnant before this time could be dangerous for both you and the baby. Please be aware that fertility increases with weight loss. Women of child-bearing age must take precautions to prevent pregnancy even if you have a history of infertility.
How often will I see the doctor after surgery?
- 2 and 6 weeks
- 3, 6, 12, 18 months
- yearly thereafter
Who do I call with questions?
- Insurance company for questions about coverage
- Patient Accounts for questions about a bill
(860) 224-5181 - Please read below for other questions
How do I contact you?
Local and toll free at 1-866-668-5070.
Questions to ask your insurance company
- Is gastric bypass (procedure code 43846) a covered procedure?
- If so…
- Are there any special requirements before having surgery, such as specific diagnosis or participation in nutrition counseling?
- Are The Hospital of Central Connecticut (formerly New Britain General Hospital) and Dr. David Giles accepted providers?
- What are your co-payments and deductibles?
Note: If your insurer does not cover gastric bypass surgery, please call us to discuss payment options.
|
Enlarge Text
|
|
