Bariatric Surgery & Cosmetic Procedure FAQs | Houston, Texas
In this Frequently Asked Questions page, we have compiled answers to the most commonly asked questions about weight loss surgery, cosmetic procedures, injectables and facial aesthetics, skin rejuvenation,peptide therapy, GLP-1 weight management, and financing. Whether you are considering bariatric surgery, body contouring, a non-surgical treatment, or a medically supervised wellness program, our goal is to give you the information you need to make a confident, informed decision. Texas Aesthetics and Bariatrics is led by Dr. Ricardo Bonnor, a double board-certified cosmetic and bariatric surgeon based in Houston, Texas. If you have a question that is not answered here, call us at (281) 579-5638 or book a consultation directly.
Cosmetic Surgery FAQ’s
How much does Tummy tuck cost in Houston ?
Tummy tuck surgery in Houston typically ranges from $11,000 to $13,000, depending on the extent of the procedure and whether it is combined with other body contouring procedures. Dr. Bonnor provides transparent pricing during consultations and offers financing options. The cost includes the surgeon fee, facility fee, anesthesia, and follow-up care.
What is the best body contouring after weight loss in Houston?
Dr. Bonnor ‘s unique background in weight loss surgery with deep understanding of patients metabolic changes after a surgical weight loss procedure allows him to have a comprehensive understanding when addressing excess skin. Common procedures performed by Dr. Bonnor include: tummy tuck, body lift, arm lift, thigh lift, and breast procedures. Dr. Bonnor specializes in post weight loss body contouring and creates a customized treatment plan based on each patient specific needs and goals. Many patients benefit from staged procedures to achieve optimal results with safe outcomes.
What is a Mommy Makeover and am I a candidate?
A mommy makeover combines multiple procedures to restore a woman's body after pregnancy and childbirth, typically including breast augmentation or lift, tummy tuck, and liposuction. Ideal candidates are finished having children, are at a stable weight, and are in good overall health. Dr. Bonnor customizes each mommy makeover to address individual concerns and goals.
How long is recovery?
Most patients return to light work in 1–2 weeks and resume full activity within 4–6 weeks. Swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are part of the process, but they improve over time. We’ll give you detailed recovery instructions and support you throughout your healing process.
What is the difference between liposuction and a tummy tuck?
Liposuction removes stubborn fat deposits, but it doesn’t tighten loose skin or muscles. A tummy tuck removes both excess skin and fat and also tightens abdominal muscles, giving you a smoother, firmer midsection. Sometimes, the best results come from combining both procedures.
How do I choose between tummy tuck and liposuction?
Choosing between liposuction and tummy tuck really comes down to one question: is this just fat?. Both procedures can reshapen your midsection but they do it by solving different problems. You choose liposuction if you are near or at your goal weight and you have a firm, elastic skin as well as good muscle tone and your main concern is a pooch or love handles. You choose a tummy tuck if your abdominal muscles have separated such as after pregnancy or you have significant stretch marks on the lower abdomen where as in this scenario liposuction alone would leave you with deflated or saggy skin.
What is a lipo-abdominoplasty?
A lipo-abdominoplasty combines liposuction and a tummy tuck into a single procedure, allowing Dr. Bonnor to remove stubborn fat deposits from the abdomen, flanks, and hips while simultaneously tightening the abdominal muscles and removing excess skin. Compared to a traditional tummy tuck, lipo-abdominoplasty allows for more comprehensive body contouring in one surgery, reduced overall recovery time, and a more dramatic transformation of the entire midsection. It is one of the most popular combined procedures performed at Texas Aesthetics and Bariatrics in Houston for patients looking for a complete abdominal transformation.
Where will scars be and how noticeable are they?
Scars are placed in natural folds or areas hidden by clothing whenever possible. With time and proper care, scars fade significantly. Most patients find that the boost in confidence far outweighs any visible scarring.
Can I combine cosmetic procedures?
Yes! Many patients combine procedures, like a tummy tuck with liposuction or a breast lift with implants (a Mommy Makeover). Combining procedures can reduce recovery time and deliver a more dramatic transformation, but your safety always comes first.
Am I a good candidate for cosmetic surgery?
You may be an excellent candidate if you’re in good health, don’t smoke, and have realistic expectations. Things like skin elasticity, your current weight, and pregnancy plans will also play a role. At your consultation, we’ll create a personalized plan that fits your goals.
What should I consider when selecting a cosmetic Surgeon in Houston?
Houston is one of the world's leading hubs for medical care. Undoubtedly, board certification is important as well as having hospital privileges at major medical centers such as Memorial Hermann Memorial City Hospital. Cosmetic surgeries are usually performed on an outpatient basis so assure that these organisations are accredited surgical facilities such as: AAAASF ( American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities) as well as accreditation by The Joint Commission.
Bariatric Surgery FAQ’s
Who is one of the best bariatric surgeons in Houston?
Dr. Bonnor is a board certified bariatric surgeon with over 20 years of experience performing weight loss surgery in Houston. He has completed over ten thousand procedures including lap band removal, gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, SADI, and revision surgery. Dr. Bonnor holds surgical privileges at Memorial Hermann Memorial City Hospital and Kingsland Surgery Center, an accredited facility meeting the highest safety standards. He performs advanced laparoscopic and robotic surgery and serves as an instructor for the Da Vinci robotic surgery platform.
How do I choose a bariatric surgeon in Houston?
When selecting a bariatric surgeon in Houston look for: (1) board certification in general surgery (2) fellowship training in bariatric surgery (3) membership in the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (4) hospital privileges at major Houston hospitals (5) high procedure volume demonstrating experience (6) operating at an accredited surgical facility (7) a comprehensive aftercare program.
Am I a candidate for bariatric surgery?
You may be a candidate if your Body Mass Index (BMI) is 40 or higher, or 30 or higher with conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. Insurance coverage typically requires documented prior weight loss attempts, while the self-pay route generally requires a BMI greater than 30. The best way to find out if bariatric surgery in Houston is right for you is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bonnor's team.What is the safest or best bariatric procedure?
There isn’t one "best" procedure for everyone. Gastric sleeve is the most common and safe choice for many, while gastric bypass or SADI may be better suited for patients with more complex health needs. During your consultation, our surgeon will recommend the safest option based on your health and long-term goals.
How much weight will I lose and how fast?
Most patients lose between 60 to 70% of their total body weight in the first year to year and a half. Results vary, but with a healthy lifestyle, bariatric surgery can help you achieve life-changing improvements in both your health and confidence.
Does insurance cover bariatric surgery in Houston?
Most major insurance plans cover bariatric surgery when medical criteria are met. Dr. Bonnor accepts: Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, United Healthcare. Our very knowledgeable and professional insurance coordinators will verify coverage and help patients navigate the approval process.
How much does gastric sleeve surgery cost in Houston?
When paying out of pocket, gastric sleeve surgery in Houston typically ranges from $9,900 to $13,000. When paying out of pocket with insurance coverage, this cost will vary depending on deductibles and copays. Dr. Bonnor's office provides transparent pricing and offers financing options through Cherry. We provide detailed cost estimates during your consultation.
Do you perform revision bariatric surgery in Houston?
Yes. Dr. Bonnor specializes in revision bariatric surgery for patients who experienced complications, weight regain, or inadequate results from a previous procedure. He has extensive experience with complex revision cases including lap band removal, sleeve to bypass conversions, and re-sleeve procedures. Each patient is evaluated individually to determine the safest and most effective revision approach.
What is revision or conversion bariatric surgery and who is it for?
Revision or conversion bariatric surgery refers to procedures that modify or replace a previous weight loss surgery when results have been inadequate, complications have developed, or the original procedure is no longer effective. Common conversions performed by Dr. Bonnor include lap band removal with conversion to gastric sleeve or bypass, sleeve gastrectomy revision or re-sleeve for patients who have experienced weight regain, sleeve to gastric bypass conversion for patients who developed acid reflux after their original sleeve, and sleeve to SADI conversion for patients who need enhanced malabsorptive weight loss. Dr. Bonnor is one of Houston's most experienced revision bariatric surgeons, with extensive expertise in complex, multi-stage cases that require specialized surgical skill.
Can I convert my lap band to a gastric sleeve or bypass?
Yes. Lap band removal with conversion to a more effective procedure is one of the most common revision surgeries performed at Texas Aesthetics and Bariatrics. Most patients convert to either a gastric sleeve or gastric bypass depending on their health history, anatomy, and goals. Dr. Bonnor performs both single-stage and two-stage conversions and will recommend the safest approach based on your individual case. Patients with acid reflux or inadequate weight loss after banding are often strong candidates for conversion to bypass.
What is lap band removal and do I need to convert to another procedure?
Lap band removal is a procedure to surgically remove the adjustable gastric band, either due to complications such as band slippage or erosion, inadequate weight loss, chronic reflux, or simply the desire to no longer have a foreign device in the body. Removal alone is an option, but many patients choose to convert to a sleeve or bypass at the same time to maintain or improve their weight loss results. Dr. Bonnor performs lap band removal at Kingsland Surgery Center in Houston and evaluates each patient to determine whether a same-stage conversion is safe and appropriate based on their history and anatomy.
My gastric sleeve stopped working. What are my options?
Weight regain or inadequate loss after a gastric sleeve is more common than most patients realize and does not mean surgery has failed permanently. Options include a re-sleeve to reduce the stomach volume back to its original restriction, conversion to gastric bypass for patients who also developed acid reflux, or conversion to SADI for patients who need stronger malabsorptive weight loss. Dr. Bonnor evaluates each patient individually using imaging and a full health assessment to determine which revision approach will deliver the safest and most effective long-term result.
What is a sleeve to bypass conversion and when is it recommended?
A sleeve to gastric bypass conversion involves restructuring the digestive tract to create a small stomach pouch and reroute a portion of the small intestine, adding a malabsorptive component to the existing restriction of the sleeve. It is most commonly recommended for patients who developed significant acid reflux or GERD after their sleeve gastrectomy, or for patients who experienced weight regain and need a more powerful metabolic intervention. It is considered one of the most effective revision options available.
What is SADI surgery and who is it best for?
SADI, or Single Anastomosis Duodeno-Ileal Bypass, is a powerful weight loss procedure that combines the restriction of a gastric sleeve with a single-loop intestinal bypass to create significant malabsorptive weight loss. It is considered one of the most effective bariatric procedures available for patients with a high BMI, significant metabolic disease such as type 2 diabetes, or those who have not achieved adequate results with a sleeve alone. SADI is also a strong conversion option for patients revising from a prior sleeve gastrectomy. Because of its complexity and higher nutritional monitoring requirements, it is best performed by a highly experienced bariatric surgeon like Dr. Bonnor.
What is recovery like, and when can I return to work?
Recovery after bariatric surgery depends on the type of procedure and your overall health. Some patients are able to go home the same day, while others may need to stay overnight for monitoring. Most patients can return to light work or daily activities within 1–2 weeks, but it may take 3–4 weeks before you’re ready for more physically demanding tasks or exercise. Swelling, fatigue, and adjustment to your new eating routine are all normal parts of the healing process.
Our team will guide you step by step from the day of surgery through your recovery to ensure you feel supported and safe as you return to your normal routine.
What can I eat after bariatric surgery?
Your diet will progress in stages, starting with clear liquids, then soft or pureed foods, and finally returning to solids. Long-term, you’ll eat smaller meals, focus on high-protein foods, and take daily vitamins. Our nutrition team provides ongoing support so you know exactly what to expect.
What are the risks and side effects of bariatric surgery?
As with any surgery, there are risks such as bleeding, infection, or blood clots. Some patients may experience long-term vitamin deficiencies if they don’t follow supplement guidelines. With regular follow-up visits and a personalized care plan, our team helps minimize these risks.
Will I need plastic surgery after weight loss?
Significant weight loss can sometimes leave behind loose skin. If that bothers you, body contouring procedures – like a tummy tuck, arm lift, or body lift – can help you feel even more confident in your results. These procedures are best performed once your weight has stabilized.
What are the most effective weight loss surgeries available?
Effectiveness is typically measured by how much excess body weight is lost and how well the surgery improves metabolic conditions such as type 2 diabetes. The three most common procedures performed in Houston today are gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and SADI. SADI produces the greatest weight loss overall but is more complex and carries higher nutritional risk. Gastric bypass is often the preferred option for patients with acid reflux, though it carries its own long-term considerations. Gastric sleeve is the most frequently performed bariatric procedure today because it is simpler, has fewer long-term complications, and delivers excellent weight loss results, particularly when paired with lifestyle and nutritional changes. The potential downside is a higher risk of developing acid reflux after surgery. Dr. Bonnor will help you weigh the risks and benefits based on your specific health history and goals.
Financing FAQs
Do you offer financing for bariatric and cosmetic surgery?
Yes. We partner with Cherry, a trusted financing provider, so you can access flexible monthly payment plans that fit your budget. Financing is available for both cosmetic and bariatric procedures, whether you are covered by insurance or paying out of pocket. Our team will walk you through your options during your consultation.
What does the cost of surgery include?
We believe in transparent pricing. Your quote will include the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, the surgical facility, and routine follow-up visits. Any additional costs like lab work, post-op garments, or revision surgery are always discussed upfront.
Will insurance cover my procedure?
Bariatric surgery may be covered by insurance if you meet medical criteria. Cosmetic procedures are generally not covered, but financing makes them accessible for many patients. Our team will help verify your benefits and answer all of your insurance questions.
Injectable & Facial Aesthetics FAQs
What is Botox and how long does it last?
Botox is a neuromodulator that relaxes the facial muscles responsible for dynamic wrinkles, including forehead lines, frown lines between the brows, and crow's feet around the eyes. Results typically appear within 3 to 5 days and last 3 to 4 months. It is one of the most popular non-surgical treatments at Texas Aesthetics and Bariatrics and requires no downtime.
How much does Botox cost in Houston?
Botox is typically priced per unit in Houston, and the total cost depends on how many areas are treated and how many units are needed. During your consultation, our team will assess your goals and provide a personalized quote with transparent pricing. We also offer seasonal specials and promotional pricing, which are announced on our Instagram at @txsurgical.
What is the difference between Botox and filler?
Botox and filler solve different problems. Botox relaxes muscles to smooth lines caused by facial movement, such as forehead wrinkles and crow's feet. Filler adds volume to areas that have lost fullness over time, such as the lips, cheeks, and under-eye area. Many patients benefit from both treatments used together for a more complete facial rejuvenation result.What can lip filler do, and how long does it last?
Lip filler uses hyaluronic acid to add volume, define the lip border, improve symmetry, and enhance the overall shape of the lips. Results are customized to look natural rather than overdone. Lip filler typically lasts 6 to 12 months depending on the product used and how your body metabolizes it.
What is Sculptra and how is it different from regular filler?
Sculptra is a biostimulator, not a traditional filler. Rather than adding immediate volume, it works by stimulating your body's own collagen production gradually over several months. The result is a natural-looking improvement in facial volume and skin quality that can last up to two years. It is ideal for patients looking for long-term facial rejuvenation rather than a quick fix.
What areas can dermal fillers treat?
Dermal fillers can be used to restore volume to the cheeks, smooth lines around the mouth, define the jawline, improve the under-eye area, and enhance the lips. At Texas Aesthetics and Bariatrics in Houston, Dr. Bonnor's team uses both hyaluronic acid fillers and biostimulators like Sculptra depending on the patient's goals and anatomy. A consultation is the best way to determine which filler and treatment area is right for you.
Skin Rejuvenation FAQs
What is microneedling and what does it treat?
Microneedling is a medical-grade skin treatment that uses fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, triggering the body's natural collagen and elastin production. It effectively improves fine lines, skin texture, enlarged pores, acne scars, surgical scars, stretch marks, and overall skin radiance. At Texas Aesthetics and Bariatrics in Houston, microneedling is available for the face, scalp, and scar treatment.
What is the difference between regular microneedling, PRP microneedling, and exosome microneedling?
Standard microneedling uses the micro-injury process alone to stimulate collagen. PRP microneedling adds platelet-rich plasma drawn from your own blood, which is applied during the treatment to accelerate healing and enhance results. Exosome microneedling is the most advanced option, using exosomes derived from stem cells to deliver powerful regenerative signals deep into the skin. Each level builds on the last in terms of results and recovery support. During your consultation, our team will recommend the right option based on your skin concerns and goals.
How many microneedling sessions do I need?
Most patients see meaningful improvement after 3 to 6 sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart, depending on the concern being treated. Acne scars and stretch marks typically require more sessions than general texture or fine line improvement. A personalized treatment plan will be created during your consultation at our Houston location.Is microneedling painful and what is the downtime?
A topical numbing cream is applied before treatment to keep you comfortable throughout the session. Most patients describe the sensation as mild pressure or warmth rather than pain. Expect some redness and mild swelling for 24 to 48 hours after treatment, similar to a light sunburn. Most patients return to normal activities the following day.
Peptide Therapy & Weight Management FAQs
What is peptide therapy and what can it do?
Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as biological messengers in the body, signaling cells to perform specific functions such as healing, fat loss, muscle repair, and hormone regulation. Peptide therapy uses physician-prescribed peptide protocols to support specific health and aesthetic goals including recovery, body composition, sleep quality, and longevity. At Texas Aesthetics and Bariatrics in Houston, all peptide protocols are personalized and supervised by Dr. Bonnor.
What peptides does Texas Aesthetics and Bariatrics offer?
We offer a range of physician-supervised peptide protocols including BPC-157 for injury recovery and gut healing, CJC-1295 for growth hormone support and fat loss, NAD+ for cellular energy and anti-aging, GHK-Cu copper peptide for skin rejuvenation and hair growth, and Tesamorelin for visceral fat reduction and cognitive support. Each protocol is customized based on your health history and goals during a consultation with Dr. Bonnor.
What is BPC-157 and what is it used for?
BPC-157, or Body Protection Compound, is a regenerative peptide known for its ability to accelerate healing of tendons, ligaments, muscles, and the gut lining. It has strong anti-inflammatory properties and is commonly used by patients recovering from injury, surgery, or chronic pain. It is one of the most studied peptides for tissue repair and recovery support.What is NAD+ therapy and what are the benefits?
NAD+ is a coenzyme found naturally in every cell of the body that plays a critical role in energy production, DNA repair, and cellular function. Levels decline significantly with age. NAD+ therapy is associated with improved energy levels, sharper mental clarity, enhanced metabolism, and anti-aging benefits at the cellular level. It is one of the most sought-after wellness treatments at Texas Aesthetics and Bariatrics in Houston.
What is Tesamorelin and how does it differ from other peptides?
Tesamorelin is a synthetic growth hormone releasing hormone analogue that is specifically studied for its ability to reduce visceral fat, which is the deep abdominal fat that surrounds organs and is linked to metabolic disease. Unlike general fat loss peptides, Tesamorelin targets visceral fat specifically and has also been studied for cognitive and anti-aging benefits. It works by stimulating the body's natural growth hormone release rather than introducing synthetic hormones directly.
What is the GLP-1 weight loss program at Texas Aesthetics and Bariatrics?
Our GLP-1 program uses tirzepatide, a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist, as part of a physician-supervised weight management protocol. Tirzepatide is clinically proven for significant weight reduction, improved blood sugar control, and metabolic improvement. Unlike medical spas offering unsupervised injections, our program is overseen directly by Dr. Bonnor, a board certified bariatric surgeon with over 20 years of experience treating obesity and metabolic disease in Houston.
Am I a candidate for the GLP-1 tirzepatide program?
The GLP-1 tirzepatide program is appropriate for adults who are overweight or obese and looking for a medically supervised, non-surgical approach to weight loss. It is also a strong option for patients who have had bariatric surgery and want additional metabolic support. A consultation with Dr. Bonnor will determine whether tirzepatide is appropriate based on your health history, current medications, and weight loss goals.
Can I combine peptide therapy with bariatric surgery or cosmetic procedures?
Yes, and many patients do. Peptide therapy is often used alongside bariatric surgery to support recovery, preserve muscle mass during rapid weight loss, and optimize metabolic outcomes. Patients undergoing body contouring procedures also use peptides like BPC-157 to support healing. Dr. Bonnor takes an integrated approach to patient care, combining surgical and non-surgical tools to achieve the best long-term results.
Still Have Questions?
Our team at Texas Aesthetics & Bariatrics is here to help you. Dr. Bonnor and our staff are committed to providing you with the information and support you need to make an informed decision about your surgery.
Contact us at (281) 579-5638 to schedule a consultation and let us help you create a personalized plan that fits your unique needs. We look forward to supporting you on your journey to a healthier, more confident you.