Question:
What is the pre-op psych evaluation for?

What does it involve? What type of questions does it ask?    — Peggy H. (posted on June 14, 1999)

June 14, 1999
My psych evaluation was very easy. The psychiatrist I had to use (because of HMO restrictions) was not completely educated about WLS, but he did have many obese patients. He asked me to explain the surgery in my own words. He my expectations of the surgery. How I thought I would cope with a new body. Was I prepared for complications, and perhaps even failure to lose weight. He asked about my emotional support system. He was somewhat concerned that I am clinically depressed and require medication to stay "even". But he felt I was completely aware of all facets of my decision and did not find any contra-indications to my having the surgery. I think they really just want to be sure that you know what you are doing, and are not expecting some magical transformation. Don't worry about it! Good luck!
   — Lisa B.

June 14, 1999
I too had to have a psych evaluation for Cignahealthcare. The Dr. was very nice and deals with people with eating disorders, he had heard of the surgery but let me explain to him that I understand the risks and the rewards clearly. He gave me a (if you'll excuse the expression) a clean bill of health. I can only give you the same advice that my surgeon gave me, just be yourself and it will be fine. Good luck! If your in NJ and would like the name of the psychiatrist I saw please just email me, he's a Cigna doctor too.
   — Carrie G.

June 14, 1999
Hello, Just wanted to let you know I just had my Psych eval. Mostly was asked about eating habits, work, exercise, what I did for enjoyment. It is to profile you to see if you meet what someone (perhaps the surgeon and Psychiatrist) have came up with as a person who has been most sucessful with WLS surgery. I know they would like people to have a job or if you do not need to work then a charity or volunteer interest which would keep you busy. I also, know they are not keen on TV watchers. Also, if you have any other unresolved issues in life which have not been addressed it is suggested to get those addressed prior to surgery. But, it is not the Psychiatrist who keeps you from surgery or gets you into surgery. It is you and the surgeons final decision. I send you light and love. JC
   — Jeannette C.

June 14, 1999
When I was told about the psych eval I assumed it was to make sure you weren't a self-mutilator or some such. When I finally talked to the psychiatrist he confirmed my assumption.
   — patti S.

June 16, 1999
My doctor explained that the evaluation was to weed out people who enjoy having surgery. (There are people who do you know?) Mine was a question and multiple choice answer sort of test. I talked with the psychiatrist and he evaluated me by my answers. We even discussed the results of his evaluation right then and there. I found it to be quite interesting.
   — Peggy W.