After Weight Loss Surgery FAQs

What Can I Expect After Weight Loss Surgery?

Committing yourself to a successful weight loss plan with metabolic or bariatric surgery is a big decision that will have enormous ramifications on your health and your quality of life, and it is not a decision that you should take lightly or make alone. Not only must you understand the range of surgical options available to you and which one is best suited to address your unique health issues and weight loss goals, but you must also understand exactly how your selection of a specific surgical approach will impact your future: the type of lifestyle changes you will need to make, anticipated changes to your health, and even how weight loss might impact your appearance and your psyche.

At Beltre Bariatrics Center for Metabolic and Obesity Surgery in Maitland, Florida, we understand that finding the right answers to help you make the right choices can be a daunting task, but our lead surgeon, Dr. Wiljon Beltre, and his warm, compassionate team of weight loss experts are dedicated to providing the answers you need to make informed, educated decisions. To help you begin your research, we are pleased to provide answers to frequently asked questions about what you can expect after weight loss surgery. As you continue your exploration, we look forward to meeting with you at your personal consultation to provide additional information and address any other questions you might have, in addition to conducting a thorough medical and psychiatric evaluation to help you define your goals more clearly and select the surgical procedure that is best suited to achieve those goals.

Will I Lose My Hair?

Hair loss is one possible side effect of rapid weight loss; however, for most patients, hair loss is only temporary and limited to the first six months after the procedure, at which time hair should begin to regrow naturally. Long-term hair loss after metabolic surgery may be indicative of malnutrition or vitamin deficiency, particularly iron and/or zinc deficiency.

Will I Have Too Much “Hanging Skin”?

The accumulation of excess fat underneath the skin causes the skin to stretch until it is unable to snap back into position, so rapid weight loss can lead to loose, hanging skin. Excess skin can be removed with plastic surgery after your weight loss goal has been achieved.

Can I Drink Alcohol?

Alcohol is allowed for most individuals after weight loss surgery. However, alcohol is a high calorie, sugary beverage and can potentially undermine weight loss goals. Moreover, patients should be aware that smaller amounts of alcohol will have greater effect. When drinking, it is especially important to avoid driving or other activities impacted by alcohol consumption. Weight loss surgery may not be appropriate for individuals who have a history of alcohol addiction.

Will My Surgery Affect Metal Detectors or MRI Machines?

No. The staples used in gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy are stainless steel or titanium, and are not magnetic. The gastric band is made of silicone and filled with saline. Neither medical device will set off airport metal detectors or impact your ability to have an MRI.

Can I Get Pregnant?

We do not recommend pregnancy until at least 12 months after surgery, and we highly recommend that women of childbearing age be on a reliable form of birth control until their weight has been stable for at least 12-18 months. If pregnancy does occur, a detailed consultation with your surgeon and obstetrician will be necessary to assess appropriate nutrition. Weight loss will resume after delivery.