Find the answers to the most commonly asked Obesity Surgery questions – answered by Dallas and Plano Obesity Surgeon Dr. Preet Malladi.

Obesity is defined as an excessively high amount of body fat in relation to lean body mass.

You just need to find your height and weight and enter into our handy BMI calculator.
The resulting number will provide you with your BMI (body mass index).
If your BMI is >35 kg/m2, you are likely to have significant health problems.
However this is not always true and to a certain extent depends on your age, build, and ethnic background.

Obesity is caused by various factors including:

  • Energy imbalance
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Environmental factors
  • Family history
  • Disease conditions
  • Medicines
  • Emotional factors
  • Age
  • Major health consequences
  • Premature death (shorter life expectancy)
  • Obese people have more risk for heart diseases, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers (breast, uterine, colon), breathing difficulties (e.g., sleep apnea, asthma), arthritis, pregnancy complications, gall bladder problems, urinary incontinence, depression and digestive disorders (gastroesophageal reflux disease)
  • Risks to psychological and social well-being
  • Negative self-image
  • Social isolation
  • Discrimination
  • Difficulties with day-to-day living
  • Normal tasks become harder when you are obese
  • You tend to tire more quickly and you find yourself short of breath
  • Public transport seats and cars may be too small for you
  • You may find it difficult to maintain personal hygiene

Choosing an appropriate surgical option is very important. The decision about the surgery should be made after your surgeon has discussed with you all the risks and benefits of each procedure.

Most insurance companies pay for the weight loss surgery if the surgery is medically necessary. Please check with your health care plan to determine whether you meet their criteria. If you do not have insurance, it is best to contact us for information regarding self-pay.

Depending on the exact type (laparoscopic or open) of surgery you have, you will either be discharged home on the same day of surgery or be admitted for one night’s stay.

Your doctor will prescribe pain medications/injections to help relieve post-operative pain and make you feel comfortable.

Your dietitian will design the meal plan for you before and after surgery. This helps in faster healing and recovery from surgery.

It is recommended that pregnancy should be avoided at least during the first twelve months after surgery, and during the active weight loss phase. Consultation with your gynecologist will be helpful if you are considering pregnancy.

Some studies have shown weight loss surgery patients may be at an increased risk for alcohol abuse following certain bariatric procedures.Alcohol also is high in calories and may affect you differently than prior to your surgery. Discuss your concerns about alcohol with your Dallas weight loss surgeon before undergoing the procedure.

Walking is an excellent exercise that you can begin immediately after your surgery. When you may return to work depends on your occupation and how fast you recover.

Diet and exercise is still how weight loss and weight control are accomplished. You must commit to a change in your dietary habits and an exercise regimen for maximum success.