Simple Steps To Choosing A Bariatric Surgeon

The decision to get bariatric surgery is a serious one. It can involve reducing the size of your stomach or bypassing a large portion of your digestive tract to diminish appetite and aid in weight loss. Naturally, you want to find a bariatric surgeon that you can trust to perform your operation successfully and walk you through what to do before and after. Here are simple steps to choosing a bariatric surgeon to guide your choice.

Determine if You’re a Candidate for Surgery

To start, you should determine whether you’re a candidate for bariatric surgery. People who undergo bariatric surgeries are those who have seriously attempted to lose weight, but have not been successful in the long term. They must also be at least 100 pounds overweight or have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more. If this describes you, bariatric surgery is an option to consider. In addition to these factors, you should also speak with your insurance provider to find out what it will cover. Also, a good bariatric surgeon will be able to answer your questions on the qualifications for surgery.

Consider the Surgeon’s Experience

A bariatric surgeon’s experience is important. There are different types of bariatric surgeries, and the surgeon that you select should have expertise on the one you require. Your doctor may recommend that you get a gastric sleeve or gastric bypass, as an example. You would then need to locate a bariatric surgeon with experience in those specific procedures. Often, you can find experience on a surgeon’s website or by contacting them and inquiring about their training and previous procedures.

Think About Communication Style

Communication style doesn’t directly affect the success of a bariatric surgery, but it’s still something to think about. The more comfortable you feel speaking with your bariatric surgeon and asking them questions, the better you can understand the operation that you’ll undergo. You’ll be better able to follow your surgeon’s dietary and lifestyle guidelines as you prepare for surgery and recovery. In general, you should find a professional who you feel cares for you and who will listen to your preferences. One simple step to choosing a bariatric surgeon is to call them and get a feel for their communication style before proceeding further.

If you’re looking for bariatric surgeons in Las Vegas, get in touch with ALGSN Bariatric today. We’re happy to answer any questions you have about surgery requirements and the different types of bariatric procedures available to patients.