Started in 2002 and having performed over 3,500 surgeries to-date, a healthy weight is within your reach when you collaborate with the compassionate medical team at Cape Fear Valley Health.
National and medical societies recognize obesity as a chronic disease. Weight gain is caused by multiple factors beyond exercise and diet. It’s a medical issue, not a lack of willpower.
When a patient with severe obesity has tried to treat this disease on their own, they often struggle. Some people have success, but it’s short-lived. They regain the weight and put on more pounds. Then they try again. The cycle of yo-yo dieting continues.
If you are more than 100 pounds overweight, bariatric surgery may be an option for you. Weight loss surgery doesn’t just treat morbid obesity. It also cuts the risk of life-threatening health conditions, such as:
How your journey with us begins
At Cape Fear Valley Health, you can get the help you need to reach your long-term weight loss goals. The first step is to view our online educational seminar to completion. Register for the video here. Then, you’ll be contacted to schedule your first appointment. Allow two to four weeks if you prefer to meet with a specific surgeon. Otherwise, you can ask to be scheduled with the first appointment available.
How long does the process take?
The process may take three to six months, depending on several factors. Different insurance carriers have distinct mandatory requirements prior to surgical intervention.
Patients need to allow time between referrals and follow-up appointments with specialists. Allow one to two weeks following each subsequent specialist appointment. This timeline ensures surgeons have adequate time to receive and review the specialists’ documentation.
How soon can you return to work?
Depending on the occupation, you may return to work two to three weeks after laparoscopic surgery and three to six weeks after open surgery.
Your care team
You’ll have a team of multidisciplinary specialists working together to ensure you reach your healthy weight goals. Your care team may include:
- Bariatric surgeons
- Behavioral health specialists
- Dietitians
- Nurse practitioners
- Nutritionists
- Psychologists
- Therapists
At Cape Fear Valley Health, we cover every aspect of your health, not just your numbers on a scale. This holistic approach means you’re more likely to live a longer, healthier life.