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Step 1
Try treatment options before deciding on surgery. GERD can be treated with medications. Many people's GERD can be completely controlled through medication.
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Step 2
Consider how old you are and whether you want to be on medication for the rest of your life. If, for example, you are female and have already had children, it may not be a problem to be on medication for the rest of your life to control GERD. Or if your GERD symptoms develop late in life, medication may be the best option for you.
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Step 3
Consult your gastroenterologist about surgery as an alternative treatment. Your gastroenterologist should be able to recommend surgeons for you to speak with about the surgical option.
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Step 4
Know what you're getting into. Surgery for GERD, called fundoplication, involves laporoscopic surgery. The surgeon will take a part of your stomach and wrap it around your esophagus to tighten the valve between the esophagus and stomach. This procedure will stop stomach acid from leaking back into your esophagus.
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Step 5
Make sure the surgeon you choose to do the surgery has performed many of these surgeries. If you get a surgeon who doesn't do the procedure all the time, you risk ending up with worse problems than before the surgery. You must do your research carefully before deciding on a surgeon and going forward with the surgery.
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Step 6
Stay on your medication for about four to six weeks after the surgery. Your problem will not disappear overnight. The surgery needs to heal. You need to work your way back to eating normally again.
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Step 7
Weigh all your options carefully before deciding on surgery for GERD. Although it can make a huge positive difference in your life, there are risks associated with going forward with the surgery. Make sure to educate yourself about the risks and feel good about the surgeon you choose to do the surgery.
