How to Find a Weight Loss Surgeon

By Kristen at 5 November, 2009, 4:59 pm

You’ve considered your options and made the decision – bariatric surgery is right for you. So what next; where do you go from here? How do you find a weight loss surgeon?

The relationship between you and your bariatric surgeon is an important one. Like the family and friends on your support team, your surgeon will be there every step along the way on your journey.

There are important factors to consider where your health and weight loss success is concerned. Luckily, there are resources and tips to guide you in finding the right weight loss surgeon for you.

Start with Certification

First, look for board certified bariatric surgeons. In order to receive certification with boards – like the American Society of Bariatric Physicians (ASBP) or the American Society for Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) – surgeons have to meet high standards of excellence regarding their training, knowledge and experience. Board certification is like a stamp of approval from their peers and a good indication of the quality of care you can expect.

Seek Recommendations

Do you have a friend who had weight loss surgery? Maybe you’ve met bariatric patients through their blogs or online weight loss communities. Ask your friends for a surgeon recommendation; they have firsthand knowledge that you will not find anywhere else. Whether or not they would recommend their surgeon will speak volumes about the doctor’s success and patient satisfaction.

Utilize Online Resources

As with support groups, resources and information on how to find a weight loss surgeon are only a click away. If you do not know anyone from whom to seek a recommendation, surgeon directories are a great place to start.

The directories provide quick access to contact information for the weight loss surgeons in your area. They provide basic details like whether surgeons are certified, number of completed surgeries and the types of surgeries they perform.
The ASBP and ASBS both have useful directories.

Ask the Right Questions

It’s important to do your homework and research the qualifications and experience of any surgeon you are considering for your weight loss surgery.

- Is the surgeon board certified?
- How long has he/she been a bariatric surgeon?
- What types of weight loss surgeries does he/she perform?
- How many weight loss surgeries has he/she performed?
- What have been the general weight loss and health results of prior patients?
- What type of support will be available to you pre-op and post-op?
- Does the surgeon have testimonials or referrals available from prior patients?

These questions will give you some insight into the surgeon’s experience, helping you to gauge their qualifications, and decide if they are right for you.

Get Personal

Finally, and possibly most importantly, meet the surgeon in person before you make a decision. You will have numerous questions and concerns for you doctor throughout your journey, so it is important you feel comfortable and confident with your surgeon. Ask about the availability of pre-op and post-op support groups and surgeon consultations. The in-person connections signify the type of personal attention you want from your weight loss surgery team.

Categories : Weight Loss | Weight Loss Surgery