By Lisa Shaw, RN, MSN, MBA, CBN, Director, Digestive Health Surgery Programs, Virtua Complete Weight Management Program

General Bariatric Surgery Information

What are the requirements for bariatric surgery?

To be eligible for bariatric surgery, patients must generally have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35–39.9 combined with a weight-related health condition. At Virtua, we follow National Institutes of Health (NIH) guidelines to determine eligibility and ensure surgery is the safest and most effective path to help you meet your goals.

You may be a candidate for bariatric surgery if:

• Your BMI is 40 or higher.
• Your BMI is between 35 and 39.9, and you have weight-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), or sleep apnea.
• If you meet the BMI criteria above and have previously made unsuccessful attempts to lose weight through diet and exercise.

Is weight-loss surgery the right choice for everyone?

Bariatric surgery is a powerful tool, but it isn't a "quick fix." Success requires a lifelong commitment to nutrition and lifestyle changes. At Virtua, we guide you through a complete evaluation and intensive education process. This helps you and your care team decide if surgery is the best path for your long-term health and goals.

What are the risks of bariatric surgery?

While bariatric surgery carries the risks associated with any major abdominal procedure, Virtua’s surgeons consistently achieve safety outcomes that surpass national benchmarks. Risks vary based on individual health history, which is why your surgeon will provide a personalized risk assessment during your initial consultation.

How much weight will I lose (and how fast) after bariatric surgery?

Your total weight loss depends on the type of bariatric surgery procedure you choose and your commitment to the program. However, typical weight loss ranges from 60% to 80% of excess body weight.

Exercise and Physical Activity

When can I start exercising after bariatric surgery?

Most patients can begin light walking immediately after bariatric surgery, but you should wait for your surgeon’s clearance—typically 4 weeks post-op—before starting strenuous exercise. Consistent, low-impact activity is key to sustainable weight loss.

• In the hospital: Expect to walk at least 3 times daily.
• At home: Aim for 15-minute walks, 3–4 times a day.
• Long-term: Focus on modest, consistent movement rather than high-impact/intensity exercise to ensure sustainable weight loss.

Nutrition and Diet

What should I expect on the bariatric pre-op diet?

Most patients begin a specific pre-operative diet 2 weeks before surgery to prepare the body for the procedure. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your surgeon.

What can I eat after weight-loss surgery?

Your post-op diet transitions from liquids to soft foods, eventually incorporating smaller portions of a variety of healthy, solid foods. To ensure proper healing and weight loss, patients should focus on:

• Prioritizing protein at every meal
• Eliminating refined "white" carbohydrates (bread, pasta, rice)
• Staying hydrated with non-carbonated, caffeine-free fluids daily
• Taking your recommended daily supplements as recommended by your surgeon, including multivitamins, calcium, and B12

Lifestyle and Recovery

When can I return to work after gastric sleeve or bypass surgery?

Most patients return to work 2 to 4 weeks after gastric sleeve or bypass surgery. Your specific timeline depends on the physical demands of your job:

• Sedentary/desk roles: You may be cleared as early as your 2-week follow-up appointment.
• Physically demanding roles: Expect to wait the full 4 weeks to ensure internal healing is complete.

Will I experience hair loss after weight-loss surgery?

Some hair loss or thinning is common between 3 and 6 months post-op, and it's almost always temporary. Maintaining your intake of protein, vitamins, and minerals is the best way to support healthy regrowth.

Is bariatric surgery a "cop-out" for weight loss?

No, bariatric surgery is a clinically proven medical treatment for the disease of obesity, not an "easy way out."  It works in conjunction with—not instead of—significant behavioral changes, mindful eating, and regular physical activity.

Is plastic surgery necessary after major weight loss?

After losing a significant amount of weight through bariatric surgery, some patients may choose to undergo plastic surgery, but this depends on several factors. Our surgeons can refer you to a plastic surgeon once your weight has stabilized after the procedure.

Medications and Supplements

Do I have to take vitamins for life after bariatric surgery?

Yes, you must take daily vitamin and mineral supplements for life to prevent nutrient deficiencies. Your surgical team will individualize your regimen (including multivitamins, calcium, and B12).

What medications are prescribed after surgery?

Common post-op prescriptions include pain relief, anti-nausea medication, acid reflux prevention, and blood thinners. Your surgeon will provide a personalized schedule at discharge after surgery.

Pregnancy and Family Planning

How long should I wait to get pregnant after bariatric surgery?

Surgeons recommend waiting 12 to 18 months after surgery before conceiving. This ensures your weight has stabilized and your body is nutritionally capable of supporting a pregnancy.

Mental and Behavioral Health

What behavioral health support is available for weight-loss success?

At Virtua, mental and behavioral health support begins before your procedure. Our bariatric psychologists work with you to identify current habits and provide tools to overcome mental barriers. To ensure your long-term success, we offer several layers of accountability:

• Regular clinical check-ins with your care team
• Monthly support group meetings (available both online and in-person)
• Access to our private Facebook support community

Ready to start your weight-loss journey?

If diet and exercise alone haven't provided the results you need, Virtua’s Complete Weight Management team is here to help. We offer a full spectrum of personalized options, including:

• Bariatric weight-loss surgery (gastric sleeve, bypass, and duodenal switch)
• Endoscopic non-surgical procedures
• Medical weight-loss (including GLP-1 and GLP-1/GIP medications)

Request a consultation with Virtua's Complete Weight Management team today.