Frequently Asked Questions
Why choose us?
We are a Recognized and Accredited Bariatric Surgery Program
MBSAQIP accredited
BCBS distinction center
BCBS BCD +
BCBS HCCOE
Optum Accreditation
Biggest Robotic Bariatric Surgery Center in the Rio Grande Valley (6 robots total!)
Unique, experienced, and highly skilled Bariatric Surgeon
20 years of experience
Offers ALL bariatric surgery options
Meets or exceeds all MBSAQIP outcome and quality benchmarks
ONLY surgeon in the Rio Grande Valley performing Duodenal Switch and SADI-S
ALL procedures done Robotically by the MOST experienced Robotic Surgeon in the RGV
Only approved Da Vinci Robotic Epicenter Program and Surgeon in the RGV for General and Bariatric Surgery (people travel to the RGV to train and learn Robotic Surgery from Dr del Pino)
Individualized approach & Interdisciplinary team
We work together with you to develop the most effective weight loss surgery strategy for YOU.
Our team draws upon the expertise of a wide range of compassionate professionals to ensure the best patient outcome
Surgery Options
We offer todays most advanced and effective Bariatric procedures and techniques.
All our surgeries are performed in a Hospital (Rio Grande Regional Hospital)
All approved bariatric procedures in the US are offered: Gastric Sleeve, Mini-Bypass, RNY Gastric Bypass, Biliopancreatic Duodenal Switch, SADI-S, Revisional Surgery and Lap Band removal
Dedicated Bariatric Surgery Office and Practice
Free Insurance verification - we accept insurance and we will call your company to verify your benefits and requirements
Our staff helps you navigate the complex and difficult process of insurance approval
Best cash prices in the Rio Grande Valley
Financing options available
Why Bariatric or Weight Loss Surgery?
There are many ways bariatric surgery can help you! It is not only about confidence and comfort, bariatric surgery has many proven health benefits, which range from resolving type 2 diabetes to longer life expectancy.*
*Individual results may vary
What is a Bariatric procedure?
Bariatric procedures or surgeries involve making changes to your digestive system to help you lose weight. Bariatric surgery is done when diet and exercise haven't worked or when you have serious health problems because of your weight. Some procedures limit how much you can eat. Other procedures work by reducing the body's ability to absorb nutrients. Some procedures do both.
Why Lose Weight?
As said before, being overweight has a negative effect on your health, and by losing weight you can reverse that situation .The National Institutes of Health report that morbid obesity may considerably reduce life expectancy and is associated with an increased risk of developing conditions or diseases such as: diabetes, stroke, hypertension, joint problems, sleep apnea, cancer, coronary artery disease, respiratory problems, infertility, urinary stress incontinence, among others.
Which Procedure Is Right For Me?
We offer the Gastric Sleeve, the Gastric Bypass, and the Laparoscopic Modified Duodenal Switch (SADIS). These procedures work by decreasing the size of the stomach and decreasing nutrient absorption.
Every patient is different and has unique health concerns and weight loss goals. Only a personal consultation with a Dr. del Pino can help you determine which procedure is the best for you.
What are the benefits of Bariatric Surgery?
A review of over 22,000 bariatric surgery patients showed complete resolution and/or improvement of hypertension, sleep apnea, reproductive health, type 2 diabetes, among other conditions*. Furthermore, over the years, weight-loss surgery has proven to be a successful method for the treatment of morbid obesity. Currently, bariatric surgery is the only long term successful treatment for morbid obesity (BMI>35). Studies have shown that gastric bypass patients may improve life expectancy by 89% and reduce risk of premature death by 30% to 40%.* If you are committed to changing your lifestyle, get in touch with us about beginning your journey!
*Individual results may vary
Who qualifies for Bariatric Surgery?
Patients are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. A patient must have a BMI of at least 30. Dr. del Pino performs comprehensive evaluations and patient consultations before recommending any treatment. This approach helps enhance patient safety and reduces the risk of complications.
With insurance, patients with a Body Mass Index over 40 with no medical comorbidities qualify for the procedure. Patients with BMI of 35 or greater with medical comorbidities also qualify. Medical comorbidities include diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea, amongst others. Keep in mind that some insurance companies may have additional requirements, and that not all insurance companies include weight loss surgery in their plan.
How long is the surgery?
Our bariatric weight-loss procedures take, on average, 30 minutes to one hour to complete. Operation time varies based on the procedure and will be discussed during the initial consultation.
How long is the recovery time?
The recommended recovery time following surgery typically ranges between 2-4 weeks.
What is the Gastric Sleeve Procedure?
Dr. Mario del Pino explains what is the Gastric Sleeve Procedure. Learn more about this procedure, what to expect, and its benefits.
¿Qué es la manga gástrica o sleeve?
El Dr. Mario del Pino explica el procedimiento de la manga gástrica. ¿Cuáles son los resultados? ¿Cuáles son los riesgos? ¿Cuáles son los beneficios?
What is the Gastric Bypass?
Dr. del Pino explains what is the Gastric Bypass.
¿Qué es el Bypass Gástrico?
Dr. Mario del Pino explica el procedimiento del Bypass Gástrico.
What is the Mini Gastric Bypass Procedure?
Dr. Mario del Pino explains what is the Mini Gastric Bypass Procedure. Learn more about this procedure, what to expect, and its benefits.
¿Qué es el mini Bypass Gástrico?
El Dr. Mario del Pino explica el procedimiento del Mini Gastric Bypass. ¿Cuáles son los resultados? ¿Cuáles son los riesgos? ¿Cuáles son los beneficios?
What is the Modified Duodenal Switch Procedure or SADI-S?
Dr. Mario del Pino explains the Modified Duodenal Switch procedure for weight loss/bariatric surgery.
¿Qué es el switch?
Dr. Mario del Pino explica el procedimiento Modified Duodenal Switch.
What is the Bariatric Surgery Insurance Verification Process?
Dr. Mario del Pino explains the process of Weight Loss/Bariatric Surgery for insured patients. Are you a candidate to use insurance? What is the verification process?
¿Cuál es el proceso para operarse con seguro médico?
El Dr. Mario del Pino explica el proceso de Cirugía Bariátrica para pacientes asegurados. ¿Eres candidato a utilizar seguro? ¿Cuál es el proceso de verificación?
Why come to South Texas for Bariatric Surgery?
Dr. Mario del Pino explains our Bariatric Surgery Program for Out of Town Patients. Learn more about coming to Rio Grande Valley in Texas for Weight Loss Surgery. Keep in mind prices mentioned in video have been updated.
¿Por qué el sur de Tejas para cirugía bariátrica?
El Dr. Mario del Pino explica nuestro Programa de Cirugía Bariátrica para Pacientes fuera de la ciudad. Obtenga más información sobre cómo venir al Valle del Río Grande en Texas para una cirugía de pérdida de peso. Tenga en cuenta que los precios mencionados en el video han sido actualizados.
¿Cuál es el Combo Special? ¿Quién califica para esta oferta?
El Dr. Mario del Pino explica los detalles del precio y el proceso de nuestro Combo Price Special. Tenga en cuenta que los precios han sido actualizados.
What is the Combo Special Price? Who qualifies?
Dr. Mario del Pino explains the details of pricing and process for our Combo Price Special. Please be aware that the prices have been updated.
