How to Choose a Weight-Loss Surgeon

Weight-loss surgery (also known as bariatric surgery) has changed the lives of many people suffering from obesity and the health problems it causes. However, since this is a major procedure, it should not be entered into lightly. The most important step is finding the right doctor for your weight-loss surgery needs. Here is how to choose a weight-loss surgeon.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Explore the credentials of any and all doctors you are considering for this procedure. Typically, you are going to want to look for a doctor who has had plenty of experience in the field of bariatric surgery. She should at least be fellowship trained for weight-loss procedures.

2. Look for a surgeon with affiliations to specific surgical organizations (i.e., The American Society for Bariatric Surgery). Surgeons with the most experience and training are associated with these organizations.

3. Find out what your options are. Knowledgeable surgeons will sit down with the patient and discuss the various choices for weight-loss procedures (gastric bypass or lapband) to determine which program will ensure the most success.

4. Go with your feelings. Since the surgeon/patient relationship is an undeniably close one, you'll want to feel confident and comfortable with your choice. You'll want to choose a surgeon that is not only good at the procedure itself, but who will provide good care before and after the procedure is performed.

5. Take the medical facility into consideration. Ideally, there should be a team of doctors, nurses, nutritionists and counselors to fully take care of the patients' needs.

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