Question:
My psychologist doesn't think I qualify

I met with the psychologist today. The surgeon only wants her to state that I'm mentally stable and aware of the consequences of the surgery. Instead, she grilled me about why I could possibly want to do this. Her only exposure to the surgery is that stupid article that just came out in SELF magazine. She told me I'm mentally stable and I certainly have done a lot of research, but wouldn't I be better off trying to work with a nutritionist and personal trainer for a year? She says I'm too young (22) to be thinking about having major surgery. I'm worried that she will write a negative report. I have to see her again next week before she writes the report and she said I can fax her any material prior to that visit that I think might change her mind. Any suggestions?    — PT LawMom (posted on May 14, 2001)

May 14, 2001
First, call her and discuss your concerns with her about receiving a negative report. Is she turning the report into the surgeon? If so, the surgeon doesn't have to use it to turn into the insurance company. You should have the option of seeing another psychologist if it doesn't go directly to your carrier, which I doubt it does. If your surgeon referred you, however, I would think she would be wls-friendly. If he didn't, call the surgeon and ask who you should see. If you want to spend the time, send her some good medical references like the NIH report and Dr. Mark Bessler's article on the Multidisciplinary Management Approach to Obesity. The younger you are, the longer life you will have. Good luck!
   — [Deactivated Member]

May 14, 2001
Gosh, it's disappointing to hear a psychologist be so negative. My psyc knew the operation would be great for my self confidence and outlook. Can you go see another psyc? I DO hope you get a good report. Yes, it WILL extend your life and make you feel better about yourself and the world around you. Keep us posted please.
   — Betty Todd

May 14, 2001
I agree with Denise. Call her and make her understand how a neg. report will effect you. It sounds as if she is basing her report on her own personal opinions of this surgery and not doing what she should be. Which is to report that you understand the procedures, know the risks, and is willing to live with the strict regima that this surgery requires. Good luck to you...
   — Betty M.

May 14, 2001
I just went for my pre-op testing and while I was waiting I went through my folder. In it was the Psuch. report. I was extremely surprised to see that she had "deferred" me for surgery. She thought I had a binge eating disorder!!! I mean I had to get fat somehow and wouldn't binging on negative foods get me this way? I totally didn't understand where she was coming from. But in the end it was the Surgeon's decision. And luckily after talking to me at great length, HE decided I was a good candidate for surgery. Maybe you need to talk to your surgeon about it.
   — [Anonymous]

May 18, 2001
Did you pick this doctor out yourself? Usually the surgeon's office will refer you to one that approves and understands this surgery for those who have tried everything under the sun. Most of these doctors are happy to be reffered through your surgeon and many times insurance covers the session too or at least half of it. I think the intention of your doctor is not so much your age or giving you a heard time, but to the fact this is a BIG STEP for you. She just wants to make sure you are not taking surgery lightly. But again, she should never make you feel as though you are being "grilled" or causing you to be upset. Afterall, it is your decision and your life..but that type of counsling could be her way of seeing how much you know about the surgery and how confident you are about it by "challenging" you like that. Just keep cool and stand your ground and make it known even at age 22 ,you will like to see yourself around a very long time before anything health problems do arise. Good luck!!!!
   — [Anonymous]

May 22, 2001
I wanted to post an update on my question. I returned to see my psychologist today and she's changed her mind. I faxed her the ASBS's "Rationale for Surgery" and the text of a number of posts on here. She still thinks I could give a nutritionist/personal trainer a try, but is willing to write a positive recommendation stating that I am mentally stable, fully understand the risks and benefits of surgery, and have a good support system. Thanks for all of your suggestions and comments.
   — PT LawMom