There are many options available for weight loss surgery today. However, you may need to travel to get the support you need to reach your weight loss goals. In fact, medical tourists account for at least 2% of bariatric procedures globally, and this percentage is expected to grow.
While this type of travel may seem challenging, Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery makes it easy with our priority pass. If you’re not sure whether this option is right for you, no worries. Our experienced bariatric surgeons are here to answer your questions about this program.
What is BMI’s Priority Pass?
The priority pass program at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery helps individuals from around the world get weight loss surgery within a short timeframe at an affordable cost. This program is designed around our gastric sleeve procedure, which has been found to be effective for most patients seeking to lose weight.
With our priority pass, you receive an initial consultation, pre-operative testing if necessary, and bariatric surgery within two days. All appointments take place at our outpatient surgical center, which is affiliated with St. Vincent’s Hospital in Birmingham, AL. The hospital provides emergency and other support to our patients and staff alike.
Each procedure is completed by one of our highly experienced, board-certified bariatric surgeons. If you are traveling a long distance, we can see you via telemedicine once you leave our facility for the required follow-up appointments, allowing you to access care from home.
Who is the Ideal Candidate for the Priority Pass Program?
When it comes to losing weight, different people have different goals and desires. This program is ideal for those with a body mass index (BMI) greater than or equal to 30 and no previous history of weight loss surgery. You may need medical clearance for surgery, depending on your prior health history.
A consultation with our bariatric surgeon can help you determine if you are a candidate for this program or any other procedure we offer. For health and safety reasons, you will be required to take part in this consultation and complete a medical history form before we proceed with your surgery.
Which Procedures Can I Get With My Priority Pass?
Through the priority pass program, patients will be able to get a sleeve gastrectomy, also known as a gastric sleeve. This procedure works by changing the structure of your stomach, reducing its size by at least two-thirds. The result is a smaller stomach that fills up quickly and limits the quantity of food you can eat.
After your procedure, you must follow a special diet to avoid stretching your stomach and maximize results. You will be on a clear liquid diet immediately after surgery before being able to consume pureed food after about two weeks. After two months, you can return to a normal diet while consuming smaller portions.
Like any weight loss surgery, gastric sleeves come with the risk of complications. While you may experience pain after the procedure, it can be managed with medication. Your individual risks may vary, so we recommend discussing your concerns with your bariatric surgeon at your initial consultation.
How Much Will My Procedure Cost?
At Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, we understand cost can be a barrier to getting the care you need, especially when it comes to bariatric procedures. That’s why we offer programs like our priority pass to make care more affordable for our patients. Our options can work for nearly any budget.
With the Priority Pass, the cost of your initial consultation, surgery, and first post-operative visit totals just $7,999. Subsequent follow-up appointments will only cost $125 per visit. We also offer financing options, which we can discuss with you during your initial consultation.
Learn More About BMI’s Priority Pass Program
If you’re still not sure whether you’re a candidate for our priority pass program, the experienced bariatric surgeons at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery can determine your candidacy for this program based on your medical history.
Regardless of your candidacy, our team can help you explore the variety of options available to help you lose weight. To learn if BMI’s priority pass program is right for you, contact us online or call us at (205) 858-1211.
See if You Qualify for BMI’s Priority Pass Program Today
As a leader in bariatric surgery in Alabama and the United States, many patients come from across the world to receive care at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery through our priority pass program. Once they arrive, we offer our patients a variety of options to help them reach their weight loss goals.
If you have specific concerns or questions about our priority pass program or any of our weight loss procedures, contact us online or call us at (205) 858-1211 to schedule a consultation. Our team would be happy to answer your questions and provide you with the guidance you need.
