Ascension St. Vincent Carmel - Bariatrics

At Ascension St. Vincent Carmel - Bariatrics in Carmel, IN, we deliver bariatric surgery to help you achieve your weight-loss goals.

Weight-loss programs and surgery options

Our bariatric surgeons and weight management care teams know how difficult it can be to lose weight. At Ascension St. Vincent Bariatric Center in Carmel, Indiana, we take the time to get to know you. We listen to understand your health concerns. Then, we create a personalized weight-loss plan that’s right for you. From diet and exercise to surgery and recovery, we’re here with you every step of the way.

Your weight-loss journey starts with attending a weight-loss seminar. Our seminars help you learn about your weight-loss options, what to expect, how to modify your lifestyle and more. Weight-loss seminars are available at no charge to you.

REGISTER FOR AN INFORMATIONAL SESSION     START WITH A SEMINAR

Weight-loss programs and procedures

At Ascension St. Vincent Bariatric Center, we offer many weight-loss services, including:

  • Sleeve Gastrectomy
  • Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
  • Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch
  • Behavior modification
  • Dietary counseling
  • Exercise
  • Bariatric support groups

To learn more about bariatric surgery, recovery and support, visit our Ascension St. Vincent Weight Loss page.

Insurance coverage

Your health insurance paves the way for your weight-loss journey. Bariatric surgery is an elective procedure, so it is important you understand what is and is not covered by your insurance plan. Our insurance specialists can help explain your pre-approval requirements and submit you for coverage. Some insurance plans require you to participate in a weight-loss trial under a doctor’s supervision. They may also request documents that show that your weight has been a long-term health issue. Here are steps you can take to improve your chance of insurance covering your weight-loss surgery:

  • Read and understand your insurance company’s "certificate of coverage." If you don't have one, ask for a copy. Insurance companies are legally required to provide you with one.
  • Seek the support of your primary care doctor.
  • Before meeting with a bariatric surgeon, get your medical records in order, including your dieting history.
  • Document every doctor’s visit related to obesity-related issues and supervised weight-loss programs.
  • Document other weight-loss attempts made through diet centers and fitness club memberships. Keep good records, even receipts.

If your surgeon recommends weight-loss surgery, they will prepare a letter to obtain pre-authorization from your insurance company. This letter must establish the "medical necessity" of bariatric surgery.

Ascension St. Vincent is a Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Improvement Program accredited center.

Frequently asked questions

  • Will I lose my strength after bariatric surgery? Is there anything I can do to prevent this?

    It is common to lose muscle after weight-loss surgery. But a resistance training program can help you maintain strength. We provide basic information on strength training you can do at home with little to no equipment. Attend an exercise class or talk with our fitness instructors to help find the right program for you.

  • I am afraid to fall into old eating habits after bariatric surgery. How can I prevent this?

    Working with our care team can help you maintain a healthy lifestyle and manage your weight. You can make free appointments with a registered dietitian indefinitely after surgery. Regular meetings or phone consultation can help you stay on track.

     

  • How can I follow my meal plan and stay physically active, when my family isn’t supportive?

    Support groups are a great way to get the help you need. Our care team and group members will encourage you every step of the way. Your adult family members are welcome to attend. Bi-weekly exercise class is a great way to meet new people and get a great workout.

     

  • I’m worried about having loose skin after surgery. How do people deal with this?

    Factors such as age, amount of weight loss, smoking history, sun damage and genetics influence how much excess skin you will have after surgery. The only proven approach to get rid of sagging skin is plastic surgery. This is costly and often not covered by insurance. If you want your loose skin removed, or help coping with negative thinking about your body, the team at Ascension St. Vincent can provide you with resources.

     

  • I struggle with depression and emotional eating. I am looking for a therapist that understands bariatric surgery and can help me. What is your advice?

    We have worked with many therapists that help people with mental and emotional health concerns. Our care team can provide you with a list of therapists who are familiar with bariatric patients’ unique needs. Please check to make sure your insurance covers therapy.