WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A WEIGHT LOSS SURGEON

Weight loss surgery involves a lot of risks and complications.It is therefore very important that you make the right choice of weight loss surgeon.It is a lifelong commitment and shouldn't be taken lightly at all.The following are guidelines:
1.QUALIFICATION:The bariatric surgeon should be qualified specialist,board certified and fully trained.He should also be a member of a bariatric surgery society like the American Society of Bariatric surgery.He should also be licensed as well as his medical team.

2.EXPERIENCE:Remember that surgery is very risky so experience of the surgeon really counts.The surgeon must have performed quite a number of surgeries(most recommended is at least 100).

3.SAFETY RECORDS:The surgeon should have clean records with regard to safety of patients.Does he have a record of high mortality rates?Does he use very safe equipments for surgery?

4.SUCCESS RATES:The surgeon must have performed most surgeries successfully.Also,his patients should have lost significant weight after the surgery.Does his patients recover fast after the surgery?

5.WILLING TO EXPLAIN:The surgeon should explain the type of surgery and the best procedure for you.He must also be ready to answer all your questions.You must also
be informed about the advantages and disadvantages of each procedure,cost of surgery,

insurance benefits applicable to you,lifestyle changes and also the aftermath of surgery.

6.TESTIMONIALS AND REFERENCES:The bariatric surgeon must also make available the contact information of people he has operated on so that they can share their experiences with you.You should also join weight loss surgery forums so that you learn from other people who have made it.

7.POST SURGERY SERVICES:Walking out of the operating room isn't the end of the story.Life after surgery really matters as bad lifestyle could lead to weight gain.Therefore the weight loss surgeon should have a team of qualified health care professionals like licensed psychologists,registered dietitians,nurses as well as exercise psychologists.He should also be willing to assist you after the surgery.

It's also advisable to ask your family doctor about his recommendations.Also ask friends and do a lot of research about the surgeon before undergoing bariatric surgery.
Are you a potential candidate for bariatric surgery?

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