Question to ask

Hello everyone.This is the first time I have posted on here. Tomorrow is my very first appointment with the surgeon. I wanted to know if anyone could tell me what questions they would suggest to ask or wish they would have asked at the first meeting. My first meeting will be about an hour long and they said be sure to write down all my question I wanted to ask. I have been writing down ones that come to mind but wanted to see what others might suggest. Thanks for all your help.

I would ensure that you understand the whole process of surgery, what's required, time line, etc.

I would ensure you have a clear understanding of some of the negative outcomes that can happen (strictures (sp?), medication restriction, etc.)

I would also ensure that you have realistic expectations (how long he thinks it would take for weight to come off, what co-morbities surgery should help with, etc.)

I have read everything I can get my hands on for the past year. The stricture one is a good question. Thanks.

Good luck on your Surgeon's visit:

I was with 4 others and after he gave us his information we were free to ask questions of him.  These were the best I could remember.

Do you offer after surgery follow up visits?  (He should offer at least 3 follow up  meetings after surgery (about every  2 or 3 months)

How long have your been doing this type of surgery?

Do you have a complete Bariatric program with Nutritionists, Physical Exercise program and things like shopping and cooking classes?  (those are bonus',   but great...

I've had questions since surgery but didn't need a Doctors Appointment to get them answered...My surgeon works with the hospital's 5 star  Bariatric Center and I can just call there and get to the dept. that can help me.

How many patients have had serious complications and / or died from Surgery in your practice.  (Don't be afraid to ask these question)  My first visit with a surgeon I found out he did all kinds of surgeries besides Bariatric and had only done 210 Bariatric Surgeries, I went elsewhere to a surgeon that did only Bariatric surgeries and had successfully  completed 1,985. That is terrific.

Does your program offer AFTER Operation support groups?

I also  use HEALTH GRADES.COM to research Doctors and their hospitals.

Good Luck to you