Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery is a medical procedure designed to help people lose weight and improve obesity-related health problems. It is recommended for individuals with a BMI of 35 or higher, or BMI of 30 with serious health conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea, who have not had success with diet, exercise, or medication alone.

• Sleeve Gastrectomy (SG) involves removing about 75–80% of the stomach, turning it into a small, tube-like “sleeve.”

Gastric Bypass (RYGB) creates a small pouch from the stomach and reroutes the intestines to reduce calorie and nutrient absorption.

Both are effective for weight loss and metabolic improvement, but your surgeon will help determine which is more appropriate for your condition.

You will undergo several evaluations including:

• Blood work
• ECG and chest X-ray
• Nutritional and psychological assessments

Endoscopy (in some cases)
These ensure you are physically and mentally ready for the procedure.

Yes, your surgeon may ask you to follow a preoperative diet (often low-calorie and high-protein) for 1–2 weeks. This helps shrink your liver and reduce surgical risks.

5. Is the surgery covered by PhilHealth or private insurance?

PhilHealth may cover part of the procedure depending on your case, and some private insurance plans offer limited coverage. Please check with your provider or hospital’s billing office for specifics.

• Sleeve Gastrectomy typically takes 1 to 2 hours.
• Gastric Bypass may take 2 to 3 hours, depending on complexity.
  Both are done laparoscopically (minimally invasive) in most cases.
  

Yes. You will be placed under general anesthesia, meaning you’ll be fully asleep and pain-free during the entire procedure.

Most patients stay for 2 to 3 days, depending on how quickly they recover. Patients undergoing bypass may stay slightly longer.

As with any surgery, risks exist, including bleeding, infection, or leakage. These are rare (less than 2–3%) in experienced centers. Your surgical team will explain these risks in detail and monitor you closely.

You’ll follow a stepwise diet after surgery:

• Day 1–2: Clear liquids
• Week 1–2: Full liquids (broths, shakes)
• Week 3–4: Pureed and soft foods
  

Week 5+: Gradual reintroduction of solid food
A dietitian will guide you to ensure proper nutrition.

Yes. After either procedure—especially gastric bypass—you may have reduced absorption of nutrients. You’ll need daily multivitamins, calcium, vitamin B12, and iron long-term.

Most patients return to light work in 2–3 weeks and resume normal physical activity within 4–6 weeks. Walking is encouraged as early as the day after surgery.

Significant weight loss may result in loose or sagging skin, especially in the arms, abdomen, or thighs. This varies by age, genetics, and total weight lost. Skin removal surgery can be considered later on, if needed.

Yes—but it’s recommended to wait 12 to 18 months after surgery before trying to conceive. This ensures your body is nutritionally stable. Many women experience improved fertility after weight loss.

Some weight regain is normal after a few years, but large weight regain may mean the need to re-evaluate your diet, lifestyle, and habits. Regular follow-ups and support groups help prevent this.

Absolutely. Regular follow-ups are vital to monitor your nutrition, weight, and overall health. You’ll meet with your surgeon, dietitian, and sometimes endocrinologist or psychologist over the months and years after surgery.

It is not a “cure,” but many patients experience remission. In gastric bypass, up to 80–90% of patients with diabetes see dramatic improvement. Blood pressure and cholesterol also often normalize.

Yes—but in smaller portions and healthier choices. Your stomach will feel full much quicker, and you’ll learn to eat slowly, chew thoroughly, and prioritize protein-rich, nutrient-dense foods.

Surgery is not a punishment or last resort—it is a scientifically validated treatment for a chronic disease. For many patients, it’s the only path to lasting weight loss and better health after other options have failed.