AZ Weight Loss Clinic Bariatric Center

This medical weight loss journey is new to me and I wanted to share my initial experience for anyone in the same position. It was an eye opening experience. I found a website about medical weight loss (Az Weight Loss clinic) It was the first to pop up on my Google search for Tucson medical weight loss. I had my appointment this morning in Tucson after waiting some time. The surgeon was Michael Orris from Scottsdale with AZ weight loss. I realize I need to look into options about weight loss since the extra weight is taking a toll on my body and I'm not as healthy as I should be and have not been successful trying this on my own. My appointment was at 10:30. I was moved into four different rooms to wait for the surgeon. I finally met with the dietician at 1130 who was kind. At 12:00 noon the doctor finally invited me into his office for my consult. I told him I was looking into weight loss options. I had previously given all my health care information weeks prior. I shared that I was interested in lap band surgery. I was informed my insurance was 80/20.I was told my portion of 20% would be around $8600. It was also explained the procedures I must do before the surgery as well as all the side effects after the surgery (Only liquids for weeks after surgery) FYI, This appointment was covered by my insurance and I paid the $40 copay. (This was not a free consultation) I shared that I needed to process everything as it was a huge decision and expensive. He asked if I had questions, I shared that I was surprised at all the prep work. He informed me that all the prep work was 100% necessary and that he would never do a surgery without it and he was surprised that I could think he would perform the surgery on people without having all the prior procedures in place. (endoscopy, cardiac clearance, psych eval, Abdomen ultrasound, chest x-ray and these costs are not included in the $8600.) He asked if I had more questions, again I said I need to process all the info. As I was leaving, the surgeon walked me out and said and I quote, "I need to know if you're interested because this is a lot of work, so I don't want to waste my time or yours." I said for the third time, I need to think about it. He tossed my stack of paperwork on the medical assistant's desk and walked away clearly irritated. As a special education teacher I have dedicated my life to helping others, especially those who are most often overlooked. I expect my students to have challenging behavior as it is part of the disability. I am flabbergasted at this professional surgeon's unprofessional behavior. I also can't help but wonder if he would have treated me the same if I was thin.

In July, I will be celebrating 3 years with my lapband! It has not been the easiest process, and is still something I work hard at every day. With the help of WLIA I was able to say goodbye to diabetes, and live a healthier lifestyle. Thanks Dr. Orris and team.

THe Dr's and staff at the WLIA have been great. They have made this process an easy one and have answered all my questions. I would highly recommend Dr Orris to anyone that is considering this.

A co-worker referred me to WLIA and spoke so highly of the staff and Dr. Orris that it convinced me to make the initial appointment that same day. The staff was always very professional but also welcoming and friendly. Most have worked with Dr. Orris for many years, are very knowledgeable and it shows that they share his mission. All of my surgical and financial questions were answered thoroughly, without feeling rushed or scripted. As this was my first surgical procedure ever (gastric sleeve), I probably wouldn't have proceeded if I had a hint of doubt. Dr. Orris and his team have changed my life and I wish I had known about WLIA years ago.

My husband and I chose a consultation with WLIA for lap-band surgery based off the recommendations from other nurses and they were right! From the moment we walked in the door, you could see from all the little touches that this doctor's office was different. About half of the chairs in the lobby were build for larger folks which was a relief for anyone that has had the horrible experience of trying to be comfortable in a chair that is too small. There were pictures of successful clients all over the place, and magazines that included articles and awards about the surgeons.

The office staff had told us in advance that our appointment would be about two hours long and so we expected to spend some time there. They showed us into a consultation room and over the next 2 hours we saw a medical assistant who took my husband's medical history and drew blood, spoke with the financial advisor, the dietitian, and the surgeon. It was wonderful to accomplish in one visit what would normally take 4.

When we left, my husband felt very comfortable with the staff and the upcoming procedure. Especially once we were notified that the staff travels together to the different offices and so we would work with the same staff members at every appointment.

My husband and I are so happy we choose WLIA and would definitely recommend them to others.

Dr Orris and his staff were great to work with through this entire experience. With every issue I faced, they were there to help me through it. I had my surgery in April and have already loo over 30 pounds. I feel fantastic, my blood pressure is down, my back feels much better and I have a lot of energy. Thank you Dr Orris!

I love this location. Everyone is amazing and very knowledgeable. Dr. Orris has amazing bedside manner. I will recommend anyone and everyone to him.

Dr. DeBarros is the most amazing doctor. I had my surgery done in 2007 and have never regretted a day of it. I can not say enough about Dr DeBarros and Dr. Orris and Mike Murphy RD and staff, they are very caring and want you to succeed in your weight loss journey regardless of what surgery you have done there (Lapband, Gastric Bypass, Sleeve). I had the lapband done and I still go in on occasion to follow up or just to show them how well I'm doing. I am treated like family and if I have any questions or concerns they are more than willing to help and go the extra mile for me. I will continue going there and suggest that anyone thinking about weight loss surgery go there and check them out, you will not regret it.

For many years I have tried and failed to lose weight so in desperation I decided to turn to weight loss surgery. After doing some research online I decided that Weight Loss Institute Of Arizona was right for me. I met with Dr. DeBarros and Dr. Orris at my initial consultation. They were both friendly, professional, answered all of my questions, and alleviated any concern I had about the procedure. I was very satisfied with the care that I received and am greatly looking forward to my procedure.

Dr. Orris is a wonderful doctor. He is very helpful and caring . He helped me a lot with my weight loss journey . He gave me the knowledge that is needed to use my lap band and to achieve my weight loss goal,