Bariatric Surgery Evaluation

Bariatric surgery is a life-changing experience. It’s important that patients carefully consider their overall health and also understand surgical vs. non-surgical options for weight loss. 

Steps to Surgery

The Michigan Medicine Adult Bariatric Program typically entails:

  1. Informational video: Patients watch a bariatric surgery informational video and take a short follow-up quiz to learn more about procedures, our approach, and the expectations before and after surgery. 
  2. Insurance requirements: Patients are responsible for determining insurance coverage and requirements before surgery. Use the "Questions for Your Insurance Company" script when discussing surgery with your insurance company.
  3. Evaluation and review: Patients undergo medical, psychological, and dietary evaluations to determine candidacy.
  4. Support groups: Patients attend bariatric support groups before surgery.
  5. Meet with a bariatric surgeon: The bariatric surgeon performing the procedure will meet with the patient to discuss the process and recovery.
  6. Visits with dietitians: Our team of dietitians work closely with patients as they prepare for surgery.
  7. Pre-surgery history and physical exam
  8. Pre-surgery nutrition class
  9. SURGERY
  10. Follow-up and maintenance: Lifelong follow-up through our program.

Are You Eligible for Surgery?

Patients considering the Michigan Medicine Adult Bariatric Surgery Program must meet the following criteria:

  • 18 years of age or older
    • Body Mass Index (BMI) between 35-65
    • BMI of 40 - 65 without a weight-related medical condition
    • BMI of 35 - 39.9 with a weight-related medical condition:
      • High blood pressure
      • High cholesterol
      • Sleep apnea
      • Asthma
      • Heart disease
  • Must be nicotine-free and substance-free
    • Some insurances require negative drug (including prescription narcotics), alcohol, and nicotine tests.

Patients who meet the above criteria and are interested in bariatric surgery have two options to get started:

  • Call 734-936-5738 to schedule a new patient consultation at our Ann Arbor or Chelsea location.

Insurance Requirements

Insurance carriers may require patients to submit monthly medically-supervised weight loss documentation prior to surgery. Depending on insurance, this could be 3 months, 6 months, 7 months, or 12 months of consecutive visits.

Insurance carriers will also request a letter from a primary care physician (PCP) supporting a patient’s choice to enter the Michigan Medicine Adult Bariatric Surgery Program.