To help you understand what to expect at every point in the weight-loss surgery process, the caring bariatric team at North Okaloosa Medical Center, offers a free, on-demand online seminar. During the presentation, you will learn more about procedure options, typical results and the lifestyle changes that will help ensure lasting weight loss.
Start an Online SeminarAfter discussing next steps with the clinic and verifying your insurance information, the next step is a consultation with a surgeon. During this appointment, you and your healthcare provider will evaluate your condition, identify weight-loss procedure options and discuss the next steps in your pre-surgical plan.
Request An Appointment Call: 1-850-306-2188If surgery is recommended, an individualized pre-surgical plan will be developed for you. This includes an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, a sleep study, mental health evaluation and a consultation with a dietician. Implementing the pre-surgical plan may take several months, especially if you're using an insurance coverage option that requires completing certain steps before surgery, such as alcohol and tobacco cessation. If you're not sure how to navigate your insurance coverage, our program coordinator can assist you with collecting the information needed to verify the completion of each step in this process.
Knowledge is an important part of preparing for weight-loss procedures, even beyond the seminar. Our program provides classes on nutrition and exercise, alcohol and tobacco cessation, recommendations for preparing for surgery and post-operative support resources available. We are committed to providing the tools and information you need to make and maintain profound changes for lifelong health.
The length of your hospital stay and recovery time will depend on the procedure performed. Surgery generally takes about two hours, but some procedures may take longer. For most people, the average post-surgical hospital stay is two days. Most patients can go back to work within two weeks of surgery, but every patient is different, so your care team will consult with you about any specific restrictions or instructions for recovery.
Our team will work closely with you and your primary care physician in the early days after surgery to help keep your physical recovery on track. Our program coordinator will call within the first five days to check in on you, and you will meet with the surgeon three weeks after the procedure for a follow-up appointment. During the year following surgery, you will meet with a registered dietitian and our exercise physiologist to help you safely manage your weight loss. Our support groups also offer encouragement and education from other bariatric surgery patients and professional staff.