Bariatric Surgery FAQs

How soon can I expect to have surgery after our first visit with an OU Health Physicians surgeon?

The OU Health bariatric program applies a multi-disciplinary approach to obesity treatment. Your bariatric team will help prepare you to understand and use the tool of bariatric surgery through visits with your surgeon, obesity medicine physician, dietitian, and other evaluations over the course of at least three months. When you leave our program you will be prepared to achieve your goals and the success you seek.

How long is after surgery/post-operative care?

You will have a post-operative diet progression that advances over the course of six weeks. You may be released back to work prior to six weeks depending on the type and physicality of your position but will have scheduled post-op appointments that recur through the first year after surgery and then annually after your first year to ensure continued health and nutrition.

What does the insurance process look like?

Verification of Benefits - We encourage you to call your insurance company (the number is on the back of your card) to see if you have bariatric benefits on your plan. Once you’ve attended the bariatric seminar and chosen to begin the program, our team will verify benefits and communicate their findings with you.

Authorization for Surgery - Once you’ve completed the program, our team will submit your case and proposed surgery date to your insurance company for authorization. It may take two weeks to receive this authorization for surgery.

Are there certain medications/vitamins I’m required to take after the surgery?

Bariatric multivitamins and calcium are needed after surgery in order to prevent nutrient deficiencies due to decreased intake and altered digestion.

PPIs – medication for acid reflux – is prescribed post-operatively for patients not already on the medication.

Are there any special garments I have to wear?

SCDs – sequential compression devices – intermittently squeeze your calves to promote circulation and prevent blood clots. You will wear these in the hospital and can purchase a set to wear at home.

Abdominal binder – you will be given a compression binder in the hospital that you may choose to wear to help with support and minimize pain after surgery.

Are there certain diagnosis that rule me out as a surgery candidate?

Your bariatric surgeon and bariatrician will review your medical history to discuss the best options for you personally.

What will my diet be after urgery?

After bariatric surgery, your diet will progress through several stages to allow your body to heal and to help you adjust safely to new eating patterns. Immediately after surgery, you will begin with clear liquids, then advance to full liquids, followed by pureed and soft foods, before gradually returning to solid foods. This process happens over several weeks and is closely guided by your bariatric care team.

Long term, your diet will focus on high‑protein foods, small portion sizes, and regular meals. You will be encouraged to avoid sugary foods, highly processed items, and beverages that add calories without nutrition. Staying hydrated is essential, but fluids should be consumed between meals rather than with meals. A registered dietitian will work with you throughout this process to provide education, meal planning support, and guidance tailored to your surgery type and individual needs.

When can I have plastic surgery?

Plastic or body‑contouring surgery is typically considered after weight loss has stabilized, not immediately following bariatric surgery. Most patients are advised to wait 12–18 months after surgery, once they have reached and maintained a stable weight for several months. This timing helps ensure better healing, safer outcomes, and more lasting results.

Before pursuing plastic surgery, patients should be in good overall health, meet nutritional goals, and follow their bariatric team’s recommendations. Your bariatric provider can help you determine when it may be appropriate to explore a referral and discuss how weight stability, nutrition, and overall health factor into the decision.