Everything you need to know before, during, and after your weight-loss journey with us.
What weight loss procedures does Total Wellness & Bariatrics offer?
We offer the Mini Sleeve®, Gastric Bypass, Mini Gastric Bypass, SADI-S, Magnetic Surgery (LINX), Lap Band, and Surgical Revisions. We also have non-surgical weight loss options. During your consultation, our team will recommend the right procedure for your health history and goals.
Who is a good candidate for bariatric surgery?
Good candidates are typically adults with a BMI of 35 or higher, or a BMI of 30 or higher with obesity-related conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea. The best way to find out if you qualify is to schedule a consultation with our team in Dallas, TX.
How do I get started with Total Wellness & Bariatrics?
You can call us at 469.547.6170 or visit our website to request a consultation. Our team will walk you through insurance verification, procedure options, and financing before you ever commit to anything.
Does Total Wellness & Bariatrics accept insurance?
Yes. We work with most major insurance plans including BCBS, Cigna, Aetna, Optum, and Humana. We offer free insurance verification so you know exactly what your plan covers before moving forward.
What if my insurance doesn’t cover bariatric surgery?
We offer financing through Cherry, which allows you to spread the cost into manageable monthly payments. Call our office and we’ll walk you through your options.
What is the Mini Sleeve®?
The Mini Sleeve® is an advanced, minimally invasive version of the traditional gastric sleeve surgery, exclusively available at Total Wellness & Bariatrics in Dallas, Texas. It requires only 2–3 incisions instead of the 4–5 used in a standard sleeve, resulting in less pain, fewer scars, faster recovery, and no overnight hospital stay. The procedure is nationally trademarked and patented.
Does the Mini Sleeve® produce the same weight loss results as a regular gastric sleeve?
Yes. The Mini Sleeve® delivers the same long-term weight loss results as a traditional laparoscopic gastric sleeve, but with a less invasive approach and faster recovery.
How much of the stomach is removed during the Mini Sleeve®?
Approximately 70–80% of the stomach is removed, including the portion that produces ghrelin, the hunger hormone. This significantly reduces appetite and helps patients naturally eat less.
How long does the Mini Sleeve® surgery take?
The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes and is performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient surgery. Most patients go home within 2–6 hours.
Is there an overnight hospital stay required for the Mini Sleeve®?
No. The Mini Sleeve® is an outpatient procedure. You go home the same day, typically within 2–6 hours after surgery.
Where is the Mini Sleeve® available?
The Mini Sleeve® is exclusively available at Total Wellness & Bariatrics in Dallas, Texas. Our team holds the national trademark and patent on both the procedure and the device used to perform it.
Will I have visible scars after the Mini Sleeve®?
Scarring is minimal. Incisions are placed in discreet areas including the navel, so most patients have little to no visible scarring after healing.
What is the difference between Gastric Bypass and the Mini Gastric Bypass?
Traditional Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y) reroutes the digestive tract through two connections. The Mini Gastric Bypass uses a single connection, making it a simpler and slightly less invasive variation while still producing strong weight loss and metabolic results. Our team will help you determine which is appropriate for your situation.
What is SADI-S surgery?
SADI-S (Single Anastomosis Duodeno-Ileal Bypass with Sleeve) is a type of metabolic surgery that combines a sleeve gastrectomy with intestinal bypass. It is typically recommended for patients with a very high BMI or those who need stronger metabolic results, such as diabetes resolution.
What is Magnetic Surgery (LINX)?
The LINX procedure uses a small ring of magnetic beads placed around the lower esophageal sphincter to treat chronic acid reflux (GERD). It is often considered for patients who struggle with reflux, which can be relevant before or after bariatric surgery.
Can I have revision surgery if a previous weight loss procedure didn’t work?
Yes. We perform surgical revisions for patients whose prior procedures — such as Lap Band, sleeve, or bypass — have not delivered adequate results or have caused complications. A consultation will help us assess your options.
Why do I need a pre-op diet before surgery?
A pre-operative liquid diet helps shrink the liver, which allows your surgeon to safely access the stomach during the procedure. Your specific pre-op diet will be personalized to your needs, and our team will give you detailed instructions.
Will weight loss surgery help me get off my medications for diabetes, hypertension, or high cholesterol?
A: For many patients, yes. Bariatric surgery can significantly improve or fully resolve conditions like Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and elevated cholesterol. Many patients are able to reduce or eliminate those medications under their primary care physician’s guidance after surgery.
Can I get pregnant after bariatric surgery?
A: Yes — and many patients who struggled to conceive due to PCOS or weight-related issues find that fertility improves after surgery. We’ve had more than 50 patients become pregnant after being unable to do so before their procedure. We recommend waiting 12–18 months post-surgery before trying to conceive.
How soon can I return to work after the Mini Sleeve®?
Most patients return to work within 2–3 days. It’s normal to feel fatigued during the first week or two, but energy levels improve steadily as your protein intake increases and your body heals.
How soon can I exercise after bariatric surgery?
You can begin light activity as soon as you feel ready. For the Mini Sleeve®, lifting restrictions are minimal and only apply for the first two weeks after surgery.
Is it normal not to have a bowel movement in the first few days after surgery?
Yes. The colon is the last part of the digestive system to recover from general anesthesia. We recommend waiting about two weeks before using a stool softener or laxative so your body has a chance to work naturally first.
I feel dizzy and lightheaded after surgery. Is that normal?
Yes, especially in the early recovery period when blood pressure often drops. We recommend monitoring your blood pressure at home. Continue taking your prescribed medications and follow up with your primary care physician about any adjustments.
How long does gas discomfort last after surgery, and what helps?
Gas discomfort typically resolves within 48–72 hours. Gas-X strips, drops, or tablets can help, and gentle walking is also effective at moving gas through the digestive system.
Will I experience hair loss after weight loss surgery?
Some patients experience temporary hair thinning, particularly with significant weight loss. It typically grows back once your weight stabilizes. Taking biotin supplements and consistently hitting your protein goals are the best ways to minimize it. We also offer a hair follicle-stimulating laser and PRP scalp injections for patients who want additional support.
When can I shower, swim, or bathe after surgery?
You can shower immediately after surgery. We recommend waiting at least 2 weeks before swimming or soaking in a bathtub to allow your incisions to fully close.
Can I take ibuprofen, Advil, Aleve, or aspirin after surgery?
We recommend waiting at least 4 weeks before taking any NSAIDs. For headaches in the meantime, over-the-counter Tylenol (acetaminophen) is safe to use.
The surgical glue is coming off my incisions. Is that normal?
Yes, completely normal. The glue was applied to protect your incisions and will fall off on its own. Please don’t pick at it.
What does the post-surgery diet look like?
Days 1–2 are clear liquids only. Starting day 3, you can add protein shakes and protein-enriched liquids. You stay on full liquids through day 22, then transition to soft solids such as ground meat, eggs, cheese, and lunch meat. By week 4 you advance to a high-protein, low-carb diet. At your 6-week post-op visit, our nutrition team will help you fine-tune your plan.
Why can I eat more food at 6 weeks post-op than right after surgery?
Swelling after surgery temporarily makes the new stomach smaller than it will be long-term. As that swelling goes down, you’ll be able to hold about 4–6 ounces at a time. This is normal and expected.
When should I start taking vitamins after surgery?
We recommend starting vitamins about 2 weeks post-surgery, once you’re consistently hitting your protein goals. Never take your multivitamin on an empty stomach, as it can cause nausea.
Can I drink alcohol or have caffeine after bariatric surgery?
We recommend avoiding alcohol for the first 6 months to maximize weight loss results. If you do drink after that, choose low-carb options — beer is not a good choice for weight loss. Carbonated beverages should be avoided long-term. Light coffee and tea are generally fine after the initial healing period.
Can I drink from a straw after surgery?
Yes, straws are fine at any point after surgery. Just avoid carbonated beverages, and if you do reintroduce them eventually, wait at least 3 months, choose sugar-free options, and never drink them with meals.
Do I have to live in Dallas to have surgery at Total Wellness & Bariatrics?
Not at all. We’ve treated patients from all 50 states and internationally. We have a dedicated process for out-of-town patients that makes travel and ongoing care as smooth as possible.
Is it safe to fly or drive home after bariatric surgery?
Yes. We’ve had patients travel internationally after their procedure. We recommend getting up to walk and stretch your legs every hour during flights or long drives to support healthy circulation.
How do out-of-town patients handle follow-up appointments?
We can conduct any or all of your post-op visits by phone or video call. We’ll email you nutrition guides and lab request forms so you can have bloodwork done locally and share the results with us remotely. Distance is not a barrier to great follow-up care.
Does Total Wellness & Bariatrics have a patient support community?
Yes. We have a private Facebook group exclusively for our post-op patients where you can connect with others going through the same journey. We also maintain an active Pinterest board with daily recipe ideas and motivation.
