As you begin your weight-loss journey, we know you may have questions. Here are some answers to the most common ones. 


Your physician will determine whether or not surgery is in your best interest and explain all the risks so you can make an educated decision.

Weight-Loss Frequently-Asked Questions (FAQ)

Weight-loss surgery is a broad description for a number of procedures designed to help those who suffer from clinical obesity.

Clinical obesity is when you’re at least 100 pounds overweight and have a body mass index (BMI) over 40.

Some of the health risks for those suffering from clinical obesity are diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, respiratory disorders, stroke, and depression.

Surgery isn’t right for everyone, and weight-loss surgery is no different. Only your physician can determine whether or not you’re a good candidate for this type of surgery.

We currently offer Roux-en-Y gastric bypasssleeve gastrectomy, and duodenal switch surgeries.

Results vary, but most people will lose at least 50% of their excess body weight, and some will lose 70 to 80%. Drastic weight loss is normal for the first 12 months after surgery, and then it gradually tapers off.

There are many benefits to weight-loss surgery. Achieving a healthy weight can reduce or completely eliminate most health related issues associated with obesity.

Other benefits of weight-loss surgery are improvement in your mobility, self-esteem, and self-confidence. Reduced feelings of depression and anxiety have also been found to be benefits of weight-loss surgery.

Like any procedure, there are risks associated with surgery. The risks depend on your overall health and whether or not you have any pre-existing health problems related to your cardiovascular or respiratory system.

We use minimally invasive techniques whenever possible. This means shorter recovery times and less pain for our patients. In fact, most are up and around shortly after their surgery and are usually discharged the next day.

Since your body is undergoing such rapid change, side effects associated with dramatic weight loss are not uncommon.

Some known side effects of weight-loss surgery are constipation, diarrhea, nausea, poor absorption of nutrients, hair thinning or loss, low blood sugar levels, or post-surgical lactose intolerance.

Your doctor and nursing team will explain all of these side effects to you at discharge. Most patients can minimize these side effects by following all pre-operative and post-operative instructions.

Most major insurance companies will pay for all or part of the surgery if you show a documented need for the procedure.

We’re here for you every step of the way. The Clovis Community Weight-Loss Surgery Center is a full-service destination for patients seeking solutions for obesity and obesity-related diseases led by our board-certified surgeon and a team of specially-trained nursing staff to guide you through your weight-loss journey.

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