The goal of bariatric surgery, or weight loss surgery, is to help people lose weight and improve their health. However, it is a major decision that requires careful consideration and planning.
From the initial consultation to the follow-up care, there are many steps involved in the journey to bariatric surgery. In this post, we will explore the different stages of the bariatric surgery timeline and discuss what to expect at each stage.
If you have decided you need bariatric surgery, you must go through the pre-surgery requirements, schedule the surgery, and plan the pre-operative preparations.
Here is a detailed overview of all the important steps:
Before bariatric surgery, your doctor will make you undergo a series of tests to ensure that the surgery will be safe and effective for you. For that, you will need to meet the following requirements:
It's important to keep in mind that meeting these requirements does not guarantee that you will be approved for bariatric surgery. You will be carefully evaluated by your surgeon in order to determine if the risks and benefits of this surgery are appropriate for you. The surgeon may need to perform additional tests and evaluations to determine your eligibility.
After meeting the pre-surgery requirements, the next step is to schedule your bariatric surgery. The timeline for scheduling the surgery can vary depending on a number of factors, including the availability of the surgeon, the type of surgery you will be undergoing, and any necessary pre-operative preparation.
Once you have been cleared for surgery, your surgeon's office will work with you to schedule the procedure at a time that is convenient for you. However, there may be a waiting period before the surgery can be scheduled due to the surgeon's availability or other factors.
In addition to scheduling the surgery, you will also need to complete any necessary pre-operative preparation. This may include losing a certain amount of weight, increasing your physical activity, and attending educational and support group sessions.
Overall, the scheduling process for bariatric surgery can take several weeks to several months, depending on the individual circumstances. It's important to work closely with your surgeon's office and follow all instructions to ensure that the surgery is scheduled in a timely manner and that you are fully prepared for the procedure.
The goal of pre-operative preparation is to help you achieve the best possible outcomes from the surgery and minimize the risks associated with the procedure. Some common pre-operative preparations include:
Overall, pre-operative preparation is an important step in the bariatric surgery process. You should follow all instructions carefully and work closely with your surgeon and healthcare team to ensure that they are fully prepared for the procedure.
If you're considering bariatric surgery, it's important to understand the timeline and steps involved in the process. At Bass Bariatric Center, we're here to guide you every step of the way and help you achieve your weight loss goals. Contact us today to learn more about our bariatric surgery options and to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced bariatric surgeons. We'll work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs and goals, and help you achieve long-lasting weight loss success.
Daniel Roman is a Digital Content Writer at BASS Medical Group. He received his Masters in Journalism from UC Berkeley in 2021. Daniel has published multiple newspaper articles covering public health issues. His latest was a magazine cover story on pandemics and diseases that he co-wrote with Dr. Elena Conis, a historian of medicine, public health, and the environment.