Question 1

Am I a candidate for weight-loss surgery?

Accepted Answer

Most people qualify with a BMI of 40+, or 35+ with an obesity-related condition like type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, or high blood pressure. Updated ASMBS guidelines also support surgery at BMI 30+ when type 2 diabetes is present. The only way to know for sure is a consultation — but you can get a private 60-second read first.

Question 2

How do I get started with Dr. Perryman?

Accepted Answer

Most patients begin by attending our free informational seminar or requesting a consultation. From there, our coordinator verifies your insurance and walks you through what to expect — no pressure, no obligation.

Question 3

Do I need a referral?

Accepted Answer

Some insurance plans (especially HMOs) require a referral from your primary care provider; PPO plans usually don't. You're welcome to contact us directly — our coordinator will check your specific plan's requirements and help you take the next step.

Question 4

What happens at the first consultation?

Accepted Answer

You'll meet Dr. Perryman one-on-one to review your health history, weight-loss journey, and goals. He'll explain the options that fit your situation, answer every question, and outline next steps. It's a conversation, not a sales pitch — many patients leave with a plan, others leave to think it over.

Question 5

Do you offer virtual/telehealth consultations?

Accepted Answer

Please call our office to ask about telehealth availability for your situation; some visits can be conducted virtually while others (including pre-op workup) need to be in person.

Question 6

What procedures does Dr. Perryman offer?

Accepted Answer

Dr. Perryman offers eight options: Gastric Sleeve, Gastric Bypass, Robotic Bariatric Surgery, Gastric Band (Lap Band), Gastric Balloon (Orbera), GLP-1 medications, plus BodyTite, FaceTite, and Morpheus8 for post-weight-loss contouring.

Question 7

Which procedure is right for me?

Accepted Answer

There's no single 'best' procedure — the right fit depends on your starting weight, health conditions, lifestyle, and goals. Our decision-helper walks through how to think about it, and your consultation with Dr. Perryman is where the real answer comes from.

Question 8

Surgical vs. non-surgical — what's the difference?

Accepted Answer

Surgical options (sleeve, bypass, band) physically change the stomach for durable, long-term results. Non-surgical and medical options (Orbera balloon, GLP-1 medications) are less invasive and reversible, but typically produce less weight loss and may require ongoing use. Both can be the right answer depending on your goals.

Question 9

What is robotic bariatric surgery and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

Robotic surgery uses the Da Vinci system, which gives the surgeon enhanced 3D visualization, finer instrument control, and greater precision in tight spaces. For complex anatomy, revisions, or higher-BMI patients, this can mean smaller incisions, less tissue trauma, and a smoother recovery.

Question 10

Are GLP-1 medications an alternative to surgery?

Accepted Answer

For some patients, yes — physician-supervised semaglutide or tirzepatide can produce meaningful weight loss without surgery. They tend to work best for patients with lower BMIs or as a bridge to surgery. They typically need to be continued long-term, and we discuss the trade-offs honestly during your consultation.

Question 11

What if I've had a previous weight-loss surgery?

Accepted Answer

Revisions and conversions (for example, band-to-sleeve or sleeve-to-bypass) are part of what Dr. Perryman does. The right approach depends on what surgery you had, how your anatomy looks today, and what's driving the change — please share your prior records when you reach out.

Question 12

Does insurance cover weight-loss surgery?

Accepted Answer

Most major insurers cover bariatric surgery when medical criteria are met — typically BMI thresholds, documented attempts at weight loss, and a psychological evaluation. We accept Medicare, Medi-Cal, and major PPO plans. Our coordinator verifies your specific benefits before you commit to anything.

Question 13

What if I don't have coverage / self-pay options?

Accepted Answer

Self-pay is straightforward and we'll quote you a clear, all-in price. We also accept CareCredit and other financing partners so you can spread payments over time.

Question 14

How much does the gastric balloon cost?

Accepted Answer

The Orbera gastric balloon is $9,800 all-in. It's not typically covered by insurance, so this is a flat self-pay price that includes placement, removal, and the supervised program in between.

Question 15

Do you accept Medicare and Medi-Cal?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We work with most major insurers, and we accept both Medicare and Medi-Cal for qualifying bariatric procedures.

Question 16

Is weight-loss surgery safe?

Accepted Answer

Modern bariatric surgery is one of the most studied and safest abdominal procedures performed today — comparable to gallbladder removal in overall risk. Dr. Perryman has performed more than 1,500 bariatric procedures, and our accredited program follows national safety standards at every step. All surgery carries some risk, which we discuss openly before you decide.

Question 17

What are the risks and complications?

Accepted Answer

Like any surgery, bariatric procedures carry risks: bleeding, infection, blood clots, leaks at staple lines, reactions to anesthesia, and procedure-specific issues such as strictures or nutritional deficiencies. Serious complications are uncommon, and Dr. Perryman reviews the specific risks of your recommended procedure with you in detail.

Question 18

How long is the surgery and hospital stay?

Accepted Answer

Most bariatric procedures take 1–2 hours. Sleeve and bypass patients typically stay one night in the hospital; balloon placement is outpatient. Exact times depend on your procedure and anatomy.

Question 19

What is dumping syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Dumping syndrome happens mostly after gastric bypass when sugary or high-fat foods move too quickly from the stomach into the small intestine, causing nausea, cramping, sweating, or dizziness. It's uncomfortable but usually preventable by following the post-op nutrition plan — and many patients find it helpfully reinforces healthier eating.

Question 20

How much weight will I lose, and how fast?

Accepted Answer

On average, sleeve patients lose 60–70% of excess weight, bypass patients 70–80%, gastric band 40–50%, and Orbera balloon patients 10–15% of total body weight over six months. Most loss happens in the first 12–18 months. Individual results vary widely based on starting weight, adherence to nutrition and movement, and biology.

Question 21

Is the weight loss permanent? Can I regain?

Accepted Answer

Surgery is a powerful tool, not a guarantee. Most patients maintain the majority of their weight loss long-term when they stick with the nutrition and lifestyle habits we build together. Some regain is common around years 2–5; ongoing support, follow-up, and (when needed) GLP-1 medications can help. Individual results vary.

Question 22

Will surgery help my diabetes, sleep apnea, or blood pressure?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes — and dramatically. Many patients see type 2 diabetes go into remission, sleep apnea resolve, and blood pressure normalize within months of surgery. Gastric bypass tends to have the strongest metabolic effect. Your medical team will adjust medications as you improve. Individual results vary.

Question 23

Will I have loose skin — and what can be done?

Accepted Answer

Significant weight loss often leaves loose skin, especially on the abdomen, arms, and neck. Many patients are happy living with it; others choose contouring after their weight stabilizes. Dr. Perryman offers BodyTite, FaceTite, and Morpheus8 as in-office, minimally invasive options.

Question 24

What's recovery like and when can I return to work?

Accepted Answer

Most sleeve and bypass patients are home the next day and back to a desk job in 1–2 weeks. Physical jobs typically need 3–4 weeks. Balloon placement is outpatient with a 1–3 day adjustment period. Our post-op guide walks through each phase week by week.

Question 25

What will I be able to eat?

Accepted Answer

Eating progresses in stages: clear liquids, then full liquids, pureed foods, soft foods, and finally regular textures — usually over 6–8 weeks. Long-term, you'll eat smaller portions focused on protein first, then vegetables, then whole grains. Our nutrition program guides you the entire way.

Question 26

Will I need vitamins or supplements for life?

Accepted Answer

Yes — bariatric-specific multivitamins, calcium, vitamin D, and B12 are typically lifelong after sleeve or bypass. Bypass patients also need iron monitoring. Annual labs catch any deficiencies early, and our online store carries everything you'll need.

Question 27

Can I get pregnant after surgery?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and many patients have healthier pregnancies after weight loss. Most providers recommend waiting 12–18 months after surgery so your weight is stable and nutrition is solid before conceiving. Discuss timing and prenatal vitamins with both Dr. Perryman and your OB.

Question 28

Do I need to exercise?

Accepted Answer

Movement is part of the program — not optional. You'll start with walking the day of surgery, and build toward a regular routine you actually enjoy. Patients who move consistently lose more, maintain better, and feel stronger. We focus on what's sustainable for your body and life.

Question 29

What makes Whole Health different?

Accepted Answer

We treat the whole person, not just the number on the scale. Dr. Perryman has personally performed more than 1,500 bariatric procedures, and our program weaves in mindfulness, nutrition coaching, and long-term support so the change holds. You're never just a chart number here.

Question 30

What ongoing support do you provide?

Accepted Answer

Lifelong follow-up with Dr. Perryman, ongoing nutrition guidance, a patient community, free informational seminars, and guided meditations to support the mental side of change. Weight loss is a journey; we walk it with you.

Your questions, answered honestly.

Getting Started

Choosing a Procedure

Insurance & Cost

Safety & Risks

Results & Expectations

Recovery & Daily Life

The Whole Health Approach

We'd rather talk it through than leave you guessing.