Question:
How does the first consult go?

My first consult with the surgon is in a few weeks and I am getting more and more nervous that he will deny me because I am so young...(21). When I was making my appointment and giving my general info... the receptionist kept saying with a sigh... "wow... thats so young...21... wow..." All I ever read is how people wish that they had done it sooner and what not... and this is a step I am so ready for. I was wondering if anyone would share how their first consult went and what type of questions or info I should be prepared for to really let my Doc know I am ready for this. Thanks!    — [Anonymous] (posted on January 4, 2002)

January 4, 2002
Well, I don't think your age should be of concern. I am 22, and have had no problems at all. It seems rather inappropriate that the receptionist would even mention it. I have heard of people as young as 18 getting it done. Younger than that, it is a problem, though, because of consent concerns. 21 should be fine. As for the questions, I basically told my doctor how many different diets I've been on, how I always fail and then gain even more, etc. Tell him you feel you've exhausted every option and that you fear for your future health. I don't think you should have any problems, it was very easy for me. Good luck!
   — Jennifer Y.

January 4, 2002
During my consult., my surgeon sat down with me and described in great detail how the surgery works, and the risks, complications and benefits of the surgery. After that, he let me as any questions I had, but he had already answered most of them while he was explaining the surgery to me. :o) He told me the next step was to write for insurance approval, and if I was approved, his office staff would schedule my pre-op tests. If not, then they'd appeal.
   — [Anonymous]

January 4, 2002
I agree about the age thing.. I'm 25 and wishing I would have done it sooner! Don't let anybody stop you if this what YOU really want to do. I went to my consultation at the BTC in Texas. I got to speak to a girl there that had actually had the surgery and ask her any questions I wanted. She was really helpful about how she felt afterwards, foods she could/couldn't eat, etc.. Personally, I wasn't satisfied with the surgeon I spoke to there, but as far as what he did.. He went over the surgery.. how it would be performed, exactly what they do. Told me of the risks and the benefits. I did have to fill out some paperwork stating the diets I had attempted in the past and how much I had lost and gained. Then I was able to ask a few questions of the surgeon. I think you'll find most consultations are going to be the same and as long as you are 100 pounds or more overweight then you should not be concerned that they won't let you do this. If he's a good surgeon he will tell you of every risk involved in your own personal case(if you have any co-morbs) and then you can decide if this is still right for you. Good luck and God bless! :D
   — Diana L.

January 4, 2002
Remember, you are over 18 and that means you are leagally an adult. That means you can make your own decisions and be resposible for them. If anyone gives you any slack about being so young, tell them you were obese in a past life and you plan on doing something about it early on in this one.LOL! As far as the receptionist, and anyone else for that matter, they are of no consequence. It's you, your surgeon, and the guy at the insurance company who are deciding this thing. Stick to your guns.
   — Carolynn J.

January 4, 2002
First impress your surgeon and get educated..... Attend every suppoert group meeting from now on. This will help you and let your surgeon know your serious and knowledgable. Be glad your so young, get the weight fixed BEFORE it causes you new health problems.
   — bob-haller