Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to several commonly-asked questions. Please feel free to contact us for answers to any questions not addressed.
Q. I’ve decided to get started with your program. What can I expect during my first visit?
A. During your first visit, Dr. Rothbart will take a complete medical history as well as perform a complete physical, including an in-office EKG. Through our partnership with LabCorp, we will also schedule an appointment for you to have lab work done, including blood count, a metabolic panel, and a thyroid panel. Please note there is no extra charge for this lab work.. As every client’s medical situation and history is unique, it is important for Dr. Rothbart to establish a comprehensive picture of your health to ensure an appropriate and effective weight loss plan.
Following the paperwork and physicial, Dr. Rothbart will provide a detailed explanation of the program - outlining dietary guidelines, establishing a regular exercise program, and answering any questions that you may have.
Additionally, for clients who have experienced prior weight loss attempts without success, Dr. Rothbart may prescribe a low-profile appetite suppressant with minimal side effects. Please note we are happy to answer any questions regarding appetite suppressants and their appropriateness as part of a comprehensive weight loss program.
Q. Can I use Dr. Rothbart as my primary care physician?
A. Dr. Rothbart’s focus is exclusively bariatric care, and while he will communicate closely with your primary care physician regarding your test results and progress if you so choose, you will continue to use your primary care physician for all non-bariatric medical needs.
Q. How much weight can I expect to lose quickly?
A. While individual weight loss rates will vary based on several factors, reasonable weight loss estimates are as follows:
- Active Weight Loss Phase - 3 pounds per week
- Transitional Phase - 1 to 2 pounds per week
Q. I’ve seen weight loss programs that will allow me to lose as many as 10 to 12 pounds in one week. Are these programs effective?
A. While in the short-term, “crash” weight loss programs may cause the scale numbers to dip, in the long-term, they are not only ineffective but also potentially dangerous. Crash diets often sacrifice nutrition for weight loss, and because these diets also typically demand unrealistic lifestyle changes that are not sustainable in the long-run, the vast majority of crash dieters end up regaining the weight they lost. The truth remains that steady, controlled, and healthy weight loss is the most effective means to lifelong weight management.
Q. I’ve heard that protein is good and carbohydrates are bad for weight loss. Is that true?
A. The keyword in healthy weight loss is “balance.” Most nutritionists and weight loss experts do not recommend high-protein diets but rather a healthy balance among proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. Typically, high-quality protein should comprise 10 to 15 percent of your total daily caloric intake. Our meal replacement foods make maintaining a healthy protein intake easy by providing the recommended balance of proteins and other nutrients needed.
Q. Can I eat “real” food as part of your program?
A. Yes! While our program’s initial active weight loss phase utilizes a wide array of meal replacement foods as well as supermarket-available entrées sold by both Lean Cuisine and Smart Ones, we equip you with the nutritional knowledge to practice lifelong healthy eating habits that you can follow and maintain at home, at work, and in social settings.
Q. Should I take vitamin-mineral supplements?
A. Our weight-loss program is designed to provide all the vitamins and nutrients typically needed. Therefore, it is generally unnecessary to take an additional supplement. If you choose to do so, however, we recommend selecting low-potency supplements. And as always, we recognize that each individual is unique, so please feel free to discuss the use of supplements with us directly.
Q. What forms of payment do you accept?
A. Payment is due at time services are rendered, and we accept either cash or credit card payment. We do not partner with insurance companies but will be happy to provide you with a superbill in the event your provider will reimburse you for bariatric care. The superbill is submitted by patients to their insurance provider with the directive to reimburse the patient directly. Please note this is not a guarantee that your insurance company will reimburse you. Be sure to check your individual policy coverage to determine reimbursement eligibility.
