First appointment!

Hello all,

I'm so excited!  On the 30th, I have my first appointment at the Cleveland Clinic to undergo my psychological assessment to see if I'm prepared for surgery.  For those of you who have gone through this kind of assessment, what kind of questions do they ask?  I think I'll be okay, but it would be nice to know what I'm headed for.  Thanks!

Rachel

I wish you luck!

Rachel,

Here is a link to some threads that discuss this topic:

http://www.obesityhelp.com/search/action,search_oh/?q=what+i s+the+psychological+assessment+like&cx=000946886326336472648 %3Ae-vpeg4uyxw&cof=FORID%3A9

We hope this information helps.

Hi Rachel,

I went through that process. I don't remember any specific questions. The initial step is to take a
set of computerized questions. They use that as a basis for the discussion to follow. Mostly they are 
trying to identify any eating issues that they can either help you with or watch for a reoccurrence after
surgery. Binge eating, depression, misplaced expectations.

My advice would be to go in understanding the the surgery and weight loss by itself doesn't change you 
or your life. I just gives you the opportunity to do things differently.

It's an exciting time. I was pretty nervous before the interview but it turned out fine and I'm sure yours
will go well too. They were pretty helpful with information about support groups although they are really
RnY groups. I guess not enough DS'ers yet for a group of our own, yet.

Good luck,

Pete

They asked me a lot about what my childhood was like to determine when caused me to be obese since I was a child. Asked about my family and how supportive they were then and now. Asked about my eating habits and if I was under any stress. Then they had me fill out their paper questionnaire that they give all patients.

Hey Rachel,

Last I heard they didn't have a DS surgeon at the Cleveland Clinic.  Do they now?

~Becky

Yes, Dr. Schauer at Cleveland Clinic does the DS procedure.

Never heard of him.   My advice is to seek out his former DS patients and find out all you can.  Does he do it open or endo?  How long does he keep folks in the hospital?  HAve you met former DS patients at support groups?

There are unfortunately a lot of doctors who SAY they do the DS when in fact theyv'e neve done one.  Do your due diligence and be very careful.

I met several of my surgeons patiensts well before my surgery date and knew everything.  We have seen patients go in for a DS and come out with a Rny or just the sleeve with excuse after excuse as to why the FULL DS could not be done.  It really happens so we are very cautious when we haven't met patients of a particular surgeon to tell us first hand about their experience.

Thank you for the thoughtful advice! I have been in touch with one of his patients, but I will be sure to ask more questions before I go under the knife. :)

Yes, Dr. Schauer at Cleveland Clinic does the DS procedure.