Expert: Julia K - 1/29/2012

Question
Everytime I go to the doctor, whatever I have is caused by myself being overweight. I have struggled with my weight all my life. I am 44 years old. I weigh 230 and am 5'7".

I have had acid reflux, hiatal hernia and gastritis for 14 years. It does get better at times but always comes back. Now I get "attacks" that can last days. Most recently I had one that lasted 10 days. Most of those days I had nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. After several doctor visits and an EGD, it was found that I have several erosions on my esophagus. My hiatal hernia is pretty big. And there was obvious signs of gastritis.

I would like to get the hernia repaired. I also want to look into the sleeve gastrectomy. Because I know if I don't lose weight, it can happen again.  I want to lose the weight and keep it off forever. I have 2 young kids and want to live a long healthy life.

What are the benefits to having this surgery?  What are the draw backs?  Would my insurance cover all or most if it?

Answer
Hi Amy,

Thank you for your questions.  You will likely have to do some more research on your own, but perhaps you have already started.

Since I do not know the details of your health insurance benefits, I cannot advise you whether the procedure would be covered or not.  However, if you do have bariatric surgery benefits, vertical sleeve gastrectomy may be a covered procedure.  Its acceptance as a safe an viable solution to obesity is growing.

The benefits to weight loss surgery often outweigh the drawbacks. Overall health improves dramatically with weight loss.  The sleeve is a great tool to achieve it and sustain it.  That being said, there is much to do to prepare yourself for the implications that weight loss surgery will have on your life.  Please take your time to learn as much as possible about the stresses of recovery and the lifestyle changes required for success.  Support from your family or friends is critical.

I am uncertain about repair of the hiatal hernia at the same time as sleeve gastrectomy.  This is a medical question that should be answered by your surgeon.  Write down as many unanswered questions that you can think of and bring this list to your appointment with the bariatric surgeon.  Only a medically trained professional should guide you through these.

Take your time and arm yourself with knowledge.  Good luck and take care.

Julia