AVERAGE E.R. WAIT TIME: 25 MINUTES
About Gastric Sleeve Surgery
For those seeking a weight loss alternative or those dealing with metabolic issues like diabetes or high blood pressure, gastric sleeve surgery can be a safe, long-term solution. The gastric sleeve surgery experience at Conway Regional is the only one of its kind in Central Arkansas. From your first consultation to post-surgery, our team is with you every step of the way. For more information, please call Conway Regional Surgical Associates at the number listed below.
HOW IT STARTS
Pre-Operative Seminar
- Serves as a informal, risk-free introduction to weight loss surgery
- Information on the procedure and the overall process, given by Dr. Manning the first Monday of every month
New Patient Office Visit
On your initial visit, you will receive:
- A review of your medical history and health status
- A list of requirements to complete before surgery
- Info on what you can expect from the bariatric team both before and after surgery
- Info on what’s expected of you both before and after surgery
Nutrition Evaluation
Most new patients are required to see the dietitian for a comprehensive nutrition evaluation. This visit usually takes at least an hour.
Medically Supervised Weight Loss Visits
If your insurance requires, you may have to complete 3-6 months (or longer for some insurances) of office visits with your primary care physician and/or a registered dietitian before you are eligible for surgery. The financial coordinator will tell you what your insurance requires.
PRE-SURGERY
Pre-Op Nutrition Class (about 2-3 weeks before surgery)
This is a mandatory class where the dietitian and nurse will review all of the information you need to know before and immediately after surgery. You may be required to have a chest X-ray, EKG and blood drawn at this time in preparation for surgery.
Pre-Op Office Visit (about 1-2 weeks before surgery)
You will have a pre-op physical in our office with either your doctor or the physician assistant.
POST-SURGERY
Post-Op Office Visit (about 2 weeks after surgery)
You will see either your doctor or the physician assistant for a follow-up visit. The dietitian will also advance you to the Stage II (Soft Food) Diet.
Post-Op Nutrition Class (about 5-6 weeks after surgery)
This is a mandatory class where the dietitian will review how to eat for the rest of your life. You will be advanced to the Stage III (Lifelong Solid Food) Diet at this class.
Clinic Visit at 3 Months and 6 Months After Surgery
You will have a follow-up visit every 3 months for the first 6 months after surgery. You will have blood drawn every 6 months.
Clinic Visit at 1 Year After Surgery
You will have a follow-up visit and have your blood drawn one year following surgery. Frequency of follow-up visits will be determined by your provider.
Lifelong Follow-Up
From the time you are 2 years post-op, you will have a follow-up visit and have blood drawn once per year for the rest of your life. Frequency of follow-up visits will be determined by your provider.
