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FAQs

Here are some weight loss frequently asked questions to help you get started on your weight loss journey.

Which weight loss services are available at UT Medical Center?      

UT Medical Center's Tennessee Weight Loss & Surgery Center offers several weight loss options to help meet your needs. Medical weight loss options such as medications, meal replacements and/or behavioral modifications are all provided under medical supervision. Our physicians also perform weight loss surgery to those who qualify. Weight loss surgery options include Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass Surgery, Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding and Sleeve Gastrectomy. Click here to learn more about our weight loss options.  

 
Does insurance cover bariatric surgery?   

Most healthcare insurance companies do offer coverage for bariatric surgery. However, whether your insurance covers this surgery depends on the particular policy you have. Some employers opt for plans that do not carry coverage for bariatric surgery for their employees. The best way for you to tell if your policy offers these benefits is to call the customer service number on the back of your insurance card. Ask them if your policy includes benefits for bariatric surgery.   

On another note, each policy that covers bariatric surgery will have a list of criteria that you have to meet in order for them to consider approving you for surgery. You also can ask the customer service representative at your insurance company for a list of criteria that you have to meet. Click here for more information about weight loss surgery insurance coverage.     


How long are you in the hospital after bariatric surgery?

Most laparoscopic adjustable banding patients go home the same day as surgery. Those who have a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy or laparascopic gastric bypass usually stay in the hospital for 1 or 2 nights.


How long are you out of work after bariatric surgery?

This will depend on the type of work that you do. For those who have sedentary jobs, most banding patients can go back to work as early as 1 week, and sleeve and bypass patients can go back to work in 2 weeks. Time off of work may be longer for those who have more strenuous job functions.