Q: Once I find a doctor, what do I do next?
A: Call the doctor's office and find out what they require prior to seeing a patient for the first time. Most doctors provide a free informational meeting that is required before they'll even set-up a personal consultation. Attend the informational meeting if one is available. Chances are there will be some post-op patients there that you can get additional information from, as well.
Q: What does insurance usually require before they will approve weight loss surgery?
A: In most cases, insurance requires that you be AT LEAST 100 pounds overweight, that you have proof of several weight loss attempts in the past that have failed and that you or your family have/has a history of medical problems which are complicated by weight (diabetes, high blood pressure, gall bladder problems, etc).
Q: How will weight loss surgery affect my way of life?
A: The biggest change in your way of life will be the way you can eat. Many foods will no longer be options for you. They will simply "not agree" with you. You will also no longer be able to eat the quantities of food to which you are accustomed. The fringe benefits of these changes will be that you will have increased mobility, better health and a brighter future.
Q: Are there any risks with weight loss surgery?
A: Yes. Weight loss surgery is a major surgery therefore it carries all of the risks that are common with any kind of surgery such as blood clotting, hernias, leakage, etc. For more information on the risks of weight loss surgery, see the Association for Morbid Obesity.
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