Weight Loss Surgery at St. Joseph Health - College Station, TX

We offer nonsurgical medical weight loss treatments and therapies, nutrition counseling and bariatric (weight loss) surgery. Our specialists personalize your care plan for your unique needs.

If your BMI is 35 or above you could be a candidate for bariatric surgery.

Bariatric surgery is generally safe when performed by experienced surgeons in accredited facilities. Like any surgery, it carries some risks, which should be discussed thoroughly with your weight loss team.

Before surgery, most patients have basic tests like:

• Blood work (CBC and Chemistry Panel)
• Urinalysis
• Glucose Tolerance Test (to check for diabetes)
• Chest X-ray and EKG (for most adults)
• Depending on your health history, your doctor may also order:
• Sleep study
• Heart tests (like an echocardiogram)
• Lung function tests
• GI or psychiatric evaluations

Medical conditions such as serious heart or lung issues can increase the risks associated with bariatric surgery. However, if these conditions are related to excess weight, they may also strengthen the case for having the surgery. Even with severe health problems, a surgeon may still recommend bariatric surgery, like gastric bypass, if it's otherwise appropriate. Still, these conditions typically make the procedure riskier than average.

Most patients have a lot of questions about the type of procedures as well as the risks and complications. The first step is to watch our online seminar. Fill out the form to get started, and a member of our team will contact you with additional information about your initial appointment, insurance coverage and more.

Take the first step to better health

• Attend a bariatric seminar
• Write down all the diets you've tried
• Bring medical records, test results and hospital summaries
• Bring a list of your current medications with doses and times
• Quit smoking — tobacco increases surgical risk

Recovery times vary by procedure and individual. Most patients can return to work within a few weeks, but it may take several months to fully recover and adapt to dietary changes.

After bariatric surgery, individuals must make lifelong changes to their diet, exercise regularly and adhere to post-operative guidelines. This includes consuming smaller, nutritious meals and taking vitamin supplements.

Insurance coverage varies by provider and policy. Some insurance plans may cover bariatric surgery if specific criteria are met, while others may require prior authorization.

Your insurance provider might deny coverage if:

• Your plan excludes obesity treatments
• The surgery isn’t considered “medically necessary”
  

To prove medical necessity, insurers often require:

• Proof of failed weight loss attempts (often 1–5 years of doctor-supervised dieting)
• Psychiatric evaluations or other documentation

Before your consultation, gather:

• Diet history
• Medical records
• Lab results and test reports

Having everything ready can reduce delays with insurance approval.

Yes. We offer secure online access to your health information, making it easier and more convenient to manage your care. We’re here to simplify your health care journey and put your needs first.

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