4 Signs that Your Bariatric Surgeon Is Trustworthy

There are many health risks associated with being overweight, especially if you suffer from morbid obesity. Weight-loss surgery is a great option for the right candidate. Bariatric surgery is a life-changing decision, so selecting the right bariatric surgeon is crucial. The operation can significantly improve your overall health and increase energy levels. Healthy weight is associated with higher levels of self-esteem. It’s also been shown to lower your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, Type 2 Diabetes, and GERD. 

The Best Bariatric Surgeons 

If you are a candidate for bariatric surgery and you’ve made the informed decision to undergo the procedure, the next step is choosing the best bariatric surgeon for you. Below are 4 reliable signs that your bariatric surgeon is trustworthy. 

1: Experience  

There are several bariatric surgery procedures. The most commonly performed are gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, gastric band, and duodenal switch. Perform your research based on the surgical option you choose. Look into surgeons who specialize in the procedure you want. Verify their surgical success rates and learn about any complications the surgeon encountered—and how they were handled. You can utilize social media and the surgeon/hospital website to research the programs they offer and what kind of aftercare is provided.  

2: Credentials

Your bariatric surgeon should be board-certified in general surgery and have extensive expertise in bariatric and metabolic surgeries. When you have compiled your shortlist of potential surgeons, dive a little deeper into their credentials to help further inform your decision. There are reputable websites that provide information about your surgeon’s medical school, training hospital, affiliations, specialties, and additional certifications.

3: Patient Reviews & Referrals 

Patient reviews can be a valuable source of information when choosing a trustworthy bariatric surgeon. They often play a big role in funneling patients to the best doctors. They are anecdotal, so they should only be used as a tool to help guide your decisions, not taken as fact. Sometimes, reviews will be outlets for disgruntled patients. Oftentimes, they can be a helpful resource for information about the surgeon's bedside manner and office staff. Use your best judgment as you navigate reviews. If you want to further vet a potential surgeon, talk to your primary care doctor to see if they have any referrals, or attend a bariatric surgery support group to get some high-quality recommendations. 

4: Comfort

The journey to bariatric surgery carries a strong emotional component. It requires a patient to have a strong support system post-op to help them recover and keep the weight off. It’s just as important to feel that same level of support with your surgeon and medical staff. Schedule consultations with different surgeons from your shortlist to get a feel for your comparability. Having a stellar surgical track record is great, but many bariatric surgery patients need to connect with their surgeons. Make sure you feel safe asking questions and comfortable discussing all your concerns with your doctor. A doctor who listens is a doctor who cares—and will work hard to conduct a successful procedure.

Where Can I Find a Bariatric Surgeon Near Me?

Our surgeons at BASS Medical Group Bariatric Surgery Center, have been performing bariatric surgery since 2002. They have performed more than 1,000 operations and our patients have had excellent results. Our patients have lost more weight than the national average and our complication rate is significantly lower. Plus, our surgeons’ experience, teamwork, and attention to detail have helped to ensure successful outcomes for our patients. Our Weight Loss Surgery Centers are located in Walnut Creek and Brentwood. You can schedule a consultation today to meet with our team. We look forward to partnering with you to reach your weight loss goals.