5 Important Questions to Ask Your Bariatric Surgeon Before Weight Loss Surgery

Some people are able to lose weight with a regular routine of changing their diet and exercising. However, others aren’t able to do so as quickly or effectively as they need to for their health, which is why many people seek bariatric surgery

But it’s important to be aware of whether or not you need this treatment, how it works, and what the aftercare and changes to your lifestyle will look like. This is why you’ll want to discuss the procedure with your doctor beforehand.

At Bergen Bariatric and Surgical Solutions, we take the time to answer our patients’ questions before treatment ever begins. Dr. Mikhail A. Botvinov wants you to have the best solution for your overall health as well as knowledge about how to manage every aspect of the procedure.

Why consider weight loss surgery 

You might’ve thought about weight loss surgery in the past but weren’t sure if it was right for you. The treatment does offer many helpful effects, including a 14%-28% loss of body weight (depending on the type of surgery you choose), decreased cholesterol, and less common instances of diabetes and high blood pressure. It can also help decrease pain. 

Many people can lose weight without bariatric surgery, but if you need to lose a lot of weight quickly for your health, it can be a helpful option. Still, you’ll need to be aware of what the treatment entails and make sure you understand it properly. 

5 important questions to ask your bariatric surgeon before weight loss surgery

1. Am I a good candidate for this type of surgery? 

Not everyone should be treated with bariatric surgery. This is a major procedure that — despite laparoscopic and minimally invasive processes — can be too difficult for some individuals to undertake. The best candidates for this procedure 

If you fall under these categories and want to consider bariatric surgery, it’s important to discuss it with your doctor and make sure no stone is unturned in determining whether this treatment is right for you. 

2. Which type of weight loss surgery is right for me? 

There are two main types of surgeries currently being used for weight loss: the gastric sleeve and the gastric bypass. The first is minimally invasive and less intense, while the second may be used to treat more severe cases. The third type of surgery is called the gastric band, but gastric band removal is becoming more common as people are unhappy with its results.

It’s important to discuss with your doctor which type of surgery will be best for your needs and to determine whether one may be more effective than the other. 

3. What are the risks of surgery? 

It’s always important to know the risks of surgery going in. When you’re aware of these, you can make the most informed decision possible and know which treatment you’re receiving and how it’s meant to work. Bariatric surgery is major surgery, even if you choose a more minimally invasive option, and knowing what to expect is important to making your overall decision. 

4. What will the aftercare be like? 

Many people don’t understand that they will need help after this surgery. It sometimes takes up to six weeks for you to return to your normal activities. During this time, your diet and daily life will be drastically different, and you should be prepared for this. 

5. What will life after surgery be like? 

Post-surgery life isn’t just different during your aftercare. Your diet will change with this treatment, including what and how much you can eat, and you’ll need to be aware of and follow these changes to avoid weight gain and other side effects. Knowing this will help you continue the effects of the surgery and live a healthier life. 

Talk to your doctor about weight loss surgery

Having a discussion with your surgeon before you choose weight loss surgery is extremely helpful and even necessary to ensure you make the right choice and get all the benefits of this procedure. 

Call us at 201-778-5344 or book online to begin discussing your treatment needs. 

You Might Also Enjoy...

6 Tips for Choosing the Best General Surgeon

6 Tips for Choosing the Best General Surgeon

General surgeons are actually very specialized providers. They focus on some of the most common surgical procedures you’ll be likely to seek out in your lifetime. But finding the right surgeon for your needs takes careful consideration.

Common Myths and Facts About BMI

Your BMI provides one piece of the puzzle in terms of understanding your overall health risks. But unfortunately, there is quite a lot of fiction mixed up with the facts about this calculation. Let us provide you with the truth.
5 Encouraging Facts About Hernia Repair Surgery

5 Encouraging Facts About Hernia Repair Surgery

You might be nervous about the prospect of getting hernia surgery, but there are actually many facts to know and share that will make the procedure a lot less scary. Take it from us, and learn more about the process today.