Elizabeth Alexandra Zubowicz, MD, FACS, FASMBS

Most centers now use minimal narcotics and start anti-nausea meds even before the surgery starts.  Postoperative nausea is still expected but much less now that less narcotics (morphine) is used.  The important thing is to take small sips after the surgery and follow the postoperative diet given to you.

In general you need one visit per month for either 3 or 6 months prior to qualifying for surgery.  Regulations are being less and less strict, as companies are catching up to how successful these procedures are- so call your insurance company to confirm what their specific rules are.  I encourage you to go to an actual "center of excellence" that is full service to get the best results.  They should have everything in one place that you need to fullfill all insurance requirements.

I can't stress enough the importance of exercise!!  Sugar free sweets on occasion are fine.  Eating well balanced meals high in protein/vegetables low in starches/carbohydrates, you shouldn't have to relegate yourself to only protein shakes to lose more weight.  At this point, protein shakes are good when you're in a hurry and don't have time for an actual meal (like in the morning for breakfast).

The absolute most important thing for continued weight loss and long term success is exercise.  30 min of cardio three times a week and 30 minutes of strength training 3 times a week.  When you're doing cardio, you should be too out of breath to be able to carry on a conversation.  Weights/strength training is just as important- 30 minutes 3 times a week for that too!  

but yes you should qualify.  In general it's BMI 35 + 2 medical issues or BMI 40 and above.  Ultimately, it's up to the insurance that you have- just give them a call and they should let you know the exact requirements.  

You'll be fine.  Try to stick to the right kinds of foods though.  In order to be successful long term, it's all about sticking to healthy diet selections and EXERCISE EXERCISE EXERCISE.




When you're craving pizza, try a healthy version of pizza- flat bread instead of crust, low fat cheese, light pizza sauce with turkey sausage instead of regular sausage.  You can satisfy your craving and still be healthy.