Bariatric Procedures

Non-Surgical Procedures: Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is best for patients seeking to lose 30-50 pounds with a BMI of 30-40.

Bariatric Surgery: Being 100 pounds overweight typically qualifies you for bariatric surgery. However, body mass index (BMI) is a more accurate tool to evaluate eligibility. You qualify for weight-loss surgery if you have a:

• BMI of 40 or more
• BMI of 35-39 with an obesity-related health problem such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea and more

For your safety and to ensure that you’re ready, thorough preparation is required, which includes a few consultations and evaluations to cover:

• Diet and exercise
• Lifestyle changes
• Special health considerations
• Your expectations

During these visits, we’ll talk about what may or may not fit your needs with these procedures. This process takes several weeks to months before we schedule your surgery or procedure.

While your primary care provider may refer you to our services, it's always best to check with your insurance before you come, because many policies might not provide coverage.

• Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is often covered by insurance as an affordable, less invasive weight-loss procedure option. Again, check with your insurance to see what your plan covers.
• HSA and FSA Options: If you receive a diagnosis of obesity, high blood pressure or diabetes, you may be able to make the cost more affordable by paying with a tax-advantaged health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA). Talk with your tax advisor or the administrator of your HSA or FSA account.

Your care team will work with you to schedule your follow-up appointments and procedure at times convenient for you. Before procedure day, you should have most of the following complete:

• Attend an Avera weight-loss support group in person or online (optional).
• Contact your insurance company to check coverage for ESG or bariatric surgery.
• As applicable and directed, meet with surgeon and dietitian for consultations.
• Complete any evaluations as your care team directs, like a psychological evaluation.
• Complete all recommended preparations for lifestyle changes.

A surgery alone will not change your life. Changing lifestyle patterns isn’t easy and takes practice. Your commitment to healthy eating habits and regular exercise is what will bring you renewed confidence, more energy and better overall health.

• Within a week to a week and a half after the surgery, you’ll come see us again for a follow-up appointment.
• Then depending on how you’re doing, other upcoming visits can occur monthly or up to every three months. Attending these appointments will help you stay on track to reach your goals.
• After your surgery, you’ll feel full eating less food. Overeating will make you feel uncomfortable, and this negative reinforcement will help you control cravings.