Questions to Ask Your Surgeon Before Bariatric Surgery | BeLiteWeight | Weight Loss Services

For people who have been obese for a long period of time, taking the step of weight loss surgery represents a huge, life-changing event. As such, when you are considering bariatric surgery, be sure to ask your doctor questions to become as informed as possible about the procedure. Here are some of the most important things to consider…

What type of weight loss surgery is right for me? While gastric bypass surgery is a time-tested and effective option, only your doctor can tell you which surgery is best for your specific situation. We provide free consultations to also help determine this.

What can I do to stay in shape after bariatric surgery? The aftermath of your surgery will include lifestyle changes such as exercise and diet, which your weight may have prevented prior to the surgery. The best path to long-term success is to stay informed. Since your doctor has worked with many past patients on these issues, they know which lifestyle changes result in the most dramatic and long-term results, and will create a plan to stick to those goals.

What are the risks? Each type of procedure, while it will lower your weight, comes with its own risks and benefits. Your doctor will help you weigh the accompanying risks and your current medical situation to assess potential side effects.

Will my insurance cover it? Since bariatric surgery treats obesity – a medical condition – many insurance carriers will cover at least a portion of the cost of the procedure, recognizing that it will lower your health care costs in the long run. We can help you find ways to get it covered by your insurance carrier, if it is not already.

What are the risks if I don't do it? Some patients whose doctors or loved ones recommend weight loss surgery may at first be put off by the idea. Just as your doctor can help you assess the risks of surgery and other possible weight loss methods, they can give you a sober assessment of your current and possible future health problems, and how surgery can help you avert those problems.

We are always here to answer any questions you have, so don’t hesitate to ask us down in the Comments section.