6)    Optifast Before Surgery – This is a program that’s a traditional diet using the OPTIFast methodology, which is a meal replacement formula that provides proper nutrition but limited calories. In conjunction with nutrition education and support, it’s been shown to help weight loss. A slimmer person will tolerate any bariatric surgery better than one who is severely overweight.

Keep in mind that any of these procedures only work if the patient is committed to weight loss and follows the recommended diet and exercise protocol after the procedure.

As mentioned, any of these procedures can be circumvented by patients who willingly consume food beyond the limits set by their diet. But the success rate of bariatric surgery and these less-invasive procedures is good, and most who receive it go on to experience a fuller and richer life with fewer health complications.

Keep in mind that your insurance may not cover all of these procedures. Talk to your doctor about which may be right for you and consult your insurance company before beginning any medical weight-loss journey to ensure that it will approve the method and your choices of where the procedure will be performed.