How to Choose the Right Bariatric Surgeon
Once you’ve made the decision to pursue weight loss surgery, there are still more choices that need to be made. You will need to determine what kind of bariatric surgery procedure is right for you and where it will be performed. These decisions should be made with the help of an experienced bariatric surgeon. The best way to start your bariatric journey is to take the time to find the right weight loss surgeon and clinic for you.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Surgeon
Undergoing any medical procedure can be stressful, and bariatric procedures are no different. To put your mind at ease, you can do some research on local weight loss surgeons and bariatric clinics to see which ones might meet your individual needs. Here are some tips to help guide your search as you compare surgeons and clinics:
Start with Referrals
Ask your primary care physician or another trusted medical provider for a list of recommended names. Typically, your provider will have a few bariatric specialists in mind that they prefer to refer patients to. You can also get personal recommendations from family members or friends who have gone through weight loss surgery themselves.
Take Notes on Experience
Once you have a list of potential weight loss surgeons, spend some time researching each one and take notes on what you find. Consider how long they’ve been in practice and how much of that time has been spent in bariatrics. It’s always a good idea to make sure certification as a Fellow of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery or FASMBS is listed. You can also find out which types of bariatric surgery each provider specializes in.
Book a Consult
Based on your findings, you can schedule an appointment for an initial consultation with the surgeon. Prepare a list of questions ahead of time about key topics like procedure options, recovery, and lifestyle changes. A consult gives you a first look at the surgeon’s bedside manner, how receptive they are to questions, and what kind of follow-up care you can expect.
Research the Clinic
It’s also important to research the bariatric clinic itself that your weight loss surgeon is affiliated with. Check their website for information about their bariatric program, including when it was established, where it’s located, and how many providers are on staff. You should be able to see if the clinic offers support options for bariatric patients, such as on-site nutritionists or therapists and support group meetings.
Check with Your Insurance
Before you actually schedule your weight loss surgery, it’s essential to verify coverage with your insurance provider. Make sure the surgeon and bariatric clinic is in-network. You should also find out if the specific surgery you’re interested in is covered, if your surgeon will need to get pre-approval before performing the procedure, and what kind of coverage you have for follow-up appointments.
Choose Tri State Bariatrics
Tri State Bariatrics offers comprehensive care to bariatric patients. Our experienced surgeons perform several bariatric surgeries, including gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and Lap-Band procedures. Our team of surgeons, nurse practitioners, dieticians, psychologists, patient navigators, and behavioral therapists is here to help every step of the way. Contact us today to find out more about how we can support your weight-loss journey.
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