How to Choose the Right Bariatric Surgeon?

Bariatric surgery is an effective and often, crucial step to help control obesity. People struggling with severe obesity and co-morbidities undergo this surgery to promote healthy weight loss and lead a more fulfilling life. However, it isn’t just the physical transformation a person goes through during the surgery.

The weight loss procedure requires making a considerable amount of lifestyle and dietary changes. One may also experience significant changes in their emotional and mental state.

Keeping all these factors in mind, undergoing bariatric surgery is an important decision a person can make – there are numerous elements one needs to consider. One of the most important questions patients have in mind is: How to choose the right bariatric surgeon?

There are several factors to consider when choosing a good weight loss surgeon for you. Remember, merely being a bariatric surgeon does not mean they can deliver quality solutions for your weight loss needs. Here is a complete guide to choosing a surgeon who has the expertise to perform bariatric surgery with minor complications and also support you through the recovery process.

So, let’s get started.

Check Your Insurance Plan

Weight loss surgery can be costly depending on the type of surgery and location. For instance, the average cost of bariatric surgery in Mexico can be 70% lower than in other countries like the U.S. Yet, if the surgery is not covered under your insurance plan, you might need to pay the entire amount out of your pocket.

Therefore, before you choose a bariatric surgeon, check with your referral list to know who is covered under the plan. Working with a surgeon who participates in your plan will help you enjoy the insurance benefits and pay only a nominal amount out of your pocket.

How Experienced the Surgeon is?

This is an important factor to consider and helps evaluate the knowledge and expertise of the surgeon. Some general practice surgeons perform weight loss surgery, but it is always a good idea to choose one who specializes in this field. The more experienced a bariatric surgeon is, the lower the operative and post-operative complications that patients experience.

With a surgeon having extensive knowledge and hands-on experience in bariatric surgery, the success rate can go up considerably.

Research Reviews and Credentials

With a host of weight loss surgeons out there claiming to deliver a 99.99% success rate, it can be overwhelming to find the right one for you. A good way to filter your referral list is to choose board-certified bariatric surgeons. Having a certification implies that the doctor has the required knowledge, training, and skill set to perform a surgery with optimal care and effective results. You can also research what other certifications they have or whether they have a disciplinary or malpractice history.

This will help you narrow down your list and then know what other patients have to stay about these surgeons. Patient reviews will give you a fair idea of the surgery environment, friendliness of the doctor, wait times, post-operative recovery time, complications if any, etc. Most importantly, pick a surgeon who has specialized experience in the type of weight loss surgery you want to undergo.

How Comfortable You are Talking to the Surgeon?

Bariatric surgery can be a rewarding yet overwhelming weight loss procedure. You would want to know how the surgery is performed, what happens to your body, what are the possible implications, how will your body recover, what changes you need to bring to your life, and many more. Only a good bariatric surgeon can discuss the entire procedure and make you feel comfortable.

If the surgeon does not discuss this in detail or you feel uncomfortable asking him questions, then it is a red flag you need to pay attention to. Keep looking.

Does the Bariatric Surgeon offer Pre- & Post-Operative Support?

Bariatric surgery isn’t a one-time procedure. For effective results, you need to prepare well beforehand and only then, you can get approved for the procedure. Even post-operative recovery requires major lifestyle, dietary and exercise changes. Having a surgeon who provides pre-and post-operative care can be a great resource if you want to achieve success in living this new phase of life.

Assess the Quality of Hospital

Even if the surgeon has high ratings, it is important to consider the service quality and care you’d receive at the hospital where the procedure will be performed. Getting the surgery done at a hospital that follows the highest standards of quality and safety measures can improve the success rate and cause fewer complications. The hospital should also be located at a convenient location. Most importantly, it should be covered under your insurance plan.

Conclusion

Finding a good bariatric surgeon can be complex. But with the above tips handy with you, get started to choosing one who is reliable, experienced, and friendly.

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