The choice to undergo bariatric surgery can be a momentous moment in your life. Weight loss surgery can be a truly life-changing, and life-saving, moment for many patients.
Choosing a surgeon and surgery center is just as big a decision. Making the effort to know your doctor, their staff, and their experience is vital for an overall positive outcome.
Consider these five things when looking into “bariatric surgery near me”.
The Surgeon’s Background and Skill
How much training and experience a doctor has had should play a big part in your decision. Consider surgeons who are ABS-certified and have fellowship training in weight loss surgery. A doctor who has performed surgery many times will be more adept and will help you have a better outcome. Choose a center with a staff accredited as specialists in bariatric care.
Ask about their complication rate as well as their successes. You want a doctor who is open and willing to discuss all topics with their patients.
Speak to More Than One Bariatric Surgery Near You
You may end up choosing the first surgery center you speak with, but you should give yourself options. Before you talk with any doctors, prepare a list of questions and concerns so you have the most accurate comparison.
Many bariatric surgery centers offer virtual options, including online meetings and information sessions, if you can’t meet them in person.
Their Approach to Weight Loss Surgery
Choose a doctor who takes a minimally invasive approach. A surgeon who minimizes the number and size of incisions will help ease your recovery.
Only choose a surgery center if the doctor and staff ask about your individual goals and take the time to understand you as a person. You should go into your procedure feeling confident the doctor and staff have taken the time to understand your specific situation and customize your care plan accordingly.
Learn About Different Weight Loss Surgeries
Bariatric surgery is an umbrella term covering different procedures supporting the patient’s weight loss journey.
- Sleeve gastrectomy: The doctor removes a portion of the patient’s stomach. It is the most common form of bariatric surgery and is irreversible.
- Gastric bypass: A portion of the stomach is sealed, creating a small space that he then connects to the rest of the digestive tract, bypassing the sealed-off stomach portion.
- Gastric banding: An inflatable ring is placed around the stomach to limit its size. You can adjust or remove the band if needed.
Take the time to learn about the different procedures before meeting with a bariatric surgery near you. Discuss your options with each doctor you interview to understand the benefits and risks of each.
Look Beyond the Surgeon
Weight loss surgery is about more than just the surgery. It’s a full-life transformation that requires the support of a whole team. Ask about the surgeon’s staff to make sure you’ll have access to a dietician, mental health specialist, and patient support groups. Successful pre- and post-surgical outcomes require a team dedicated to your care.
Bariatric surgery represents a big step forward in your journey to a healthier future. Knowing what questions to ask and what factors to consider will ensure you find the best surgery center and staff to support your mental and physical well-being.
