Getting Started

The process can seem overwhelming at first glance, but our professional staff is here to guide you through it, answering any questions or concerns you may have along the way. While patients experience many of the same aspects of the bariatric program, we recognize that each is an individual with needs particular to their situation. We’re here to help!

Steps in getting started…

  • Complete online seminar.
  • Review/discuss financial obligation.
  • Most insurance plans cover weight loss surgery.  We can even help work out payment plans or obtain financing.
  • Insurance verification.
  • Once verified and financial obligation is established we will schedule your first consult appointment.
  • First consult visit with bariatric surgeon
  • Discuss benefits and risks and determine which procedure best serves your needs.

Bariatric Surgery Criteria

Not every overweight person is a candidate for weight loss surgery. Our team will help determine the best option for you. The first task is to determine your current weight condition. Being overweight is defined as weighing 10 to 20 pounds more than the recommended weight for your height. Obesity is often defined as being 20 to 30 percent over ideal body weight. Morbid obesity is a more severe form of obesity in which an individual is 100 pounds or more overweight.

Many medical problems are caused or made worse by obesity, which can lead to more serious issues such as heart disease, diabetes, sleep apnea, and gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD.

Bariatric surgery of various types has been available for more than 25 years. New advances have improved its success rate and offer real hope for severely obese patients who have failed with diet, exercise, and behavior modification.

Are you a candidate for having bariatric surgery?

  • Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or;
  • BMI between 35 and 39.9, with significant obesity-related medical problems
  • A long-standing history of obesity with multiple failed attempts at weight loss in the past, preferably with organized, medically supervised programs
  • Between 18 and 64 years of age (patients outside this age range may be considered on a case-by-case basis)
  • Not be actively smoking or abusing drugs or alcohol
  • Commit to long-term follow up and lifestyle modifications

ONLINE Seminar Registration

Phoebe Bariatrics offers FREE online seminars. Register for an online seminar and view at your convenience.

During these sessions, you will learn about significant and sustained weight loss options and how you can get started. This seminar is the first step in starting your weight loss journey.

Body Mass Index (BMI)

Obesity is most commonly measured by using Body Mass Index (BMI). BMI is determined by a person’s weight and height. A person is considered obese when their BMI exceeds 30 and is considered morbidly obese when their BMI is 40 or above. Weight loss surgery can benefit obese patients and is one of the most effective ways to lose weight and keep it off.

Weight loss surgeons and physicians use your BMI as a criterion in determining if you qualify for weight loss surgery. With most insurance plans, you may qualify for weight loss surgery if your BMI is greater than 35 and you have at least one other obesity associated illness (co-morbidity), or your BMI is higher than 40, in which case you qualify even with no other health conditions.

[Frequently Asked Questions]

For more information…

Contact Ashley Austin, DNP at 229-931-1152 or e-mail [email protected].