Are you considering bariatric surgery, but you aren't sure how to start the process? Preparing for your initial consultation can be both exciting and overwhelming, but taking the right steps can help set the stage for success.
At Atlanta Bariatrics, our team of skilled bariatric surgeons is dedicated to guiding you through each step of your weight loss journey, from your first consultation to post-surgery support. We provide personalized care that is tailored to your unique needs and goals, ensuring you receive the comprehensive support necessary for a successful transformation. Schedule your consultation with us today to take the first step toward achieving a healthier body weight and lifestyle.
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With that in mind, let's explore three essential ways to prepare for your initial consultation, ensuring you make the most of this pivotal first step in your journey toward better health.
1. Understand the Types of Bariatric Surgery
When preparing for bariatric surgery, it's important to understand your options. At Atlanta Bariatrics, some of the common procedures we perform include roux-en-y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy, both tailored to help patients achieve significant weight loss.
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is one of the most popular forms of weight loss surgery. In fact, since 2003, between 60% and 70% of all bariatric surgeries in the United States have been roux-en-y gastric bypass procedures.
The procedure involves creating a small pouch from the upper part of the stomach and connecting it directly to the small intestine, essentially bypassing a portion of the digestive tract. This means that food intake is considerably reduced after the surgery, and the body absorbs fewer calories. Because both intake and absorption are affected, patients typically see significant results.
On average, most patients lose more than 70% of their excess weight within the first year after surgery. Moreover, many medical conditions, such as high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes, improve or resolve after the procedure.
Sleeve Gastrectomy
Sleeve gastrectomy, often referred to as a gastric sleeve, has also gained popularity as an effective weight loss surgery since the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) approved the procedure in 2009.
The procedure involves the removal of a significant portion of the stomach, approximately 75-80%, leaving behind a tube-like structure or 'sleeve.' This newly formed stomach not only holds less food, reducing overall food intake, but also leads to changes in gut hormones that help with satiety, reducing appetite, and improving blood sugar control. In other words, patients feel full faster, eat less, and experience fewer cravings.
Most studies indicate that, even after nearly a decade, patients typically lose and keep off 50-55% of their excess weight. Beyond weight loss, the procedure often leads to significant improvements in obesity-related conditions, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea.
Attend an Atlanta Bariatrics Seminar
If you're interested in learning more before making a decision, our online information seminar is an ideal starting point. This video seminar, available for viewing at your convenience, will help you better understand everything you want to know about Atlanta Bariatrics and bariatric surgery, including:
- What exactly obesity is, and how it affects your health
- What surgical options are available to you
- How to decide which option is best for you
- What options are available to make surgery more affordable
- What to expect before and after bariatric surgery
- What commitments will need to be made
Whether you're already committed to this path or still gathering information, we encourage you to watch our seminar to learn more and feel confident about taking the next steps!
2. Gather Your Medical History
When preparing for your consultation, one of the most crucial steps is gathering your medical and family history. It's essential to be ready to discuss any personal or family history of obesity, heart disease, diabetes, or other related conditions with your bariatric surgeon. This information will enable your surgeon to better assess your situation and determine the best approach.
This discussion helps paint a complete picture of your health and potential risk factors, which can influence your outcome and ongoing care plan. The more details you can provide, the more precisely your healthcare team can support your weight loss journey.
Prepare a List of Your Medications
In addition to your medical history, prepare a complete list of medications you are currently taking. This list should include prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and any supplements, complete with dosages and frequency of use. Your bariatric surgeon needs this information to ensure that none of your medications will interfere with the surgery or the recovery process.
Certain drugs may need to be modified or temporarily discontinued before undergoing surgery, and knowing your current medication list is essential for proper planning and safety precautions. Sharing these details can also prevent adverse interactions, contributing to smoother recovery and long-term success.
Have Your Record of Past Procedures & Surgeries
Equally important is having a detailed record of any past medical procedures or surgeries. Whether they're records from your primary care physician or discharge papers from various hospitals, bring any relevant documents to your initial consultation. This information will be especially important if you've had previous abdominal surgeries, as it may impact the type of weight loss procedure recommended for you.
This information will help your surgeon identify any potential complications or risks that could arise during the surgery, allowing them to prepare accordingly. Additionally, your surgeon may be able to use this information to determine the best approach for your procedure, leading to a more successful outcome.
Come With Your Questions Written Down
Finally, don't forget to write down any questions you want to ask before you undergo surgery! These appointments can be packed with information, and it's easy to forget the questions you wanted to ask. Having a written list ensures that no question goes unanswered and allows you to make a well-informed decision about your health.
3. Prepare Mentally & Emotionally
Choosing to undergo bariatric surgery is not just a one-time event but the beginning of a lifelong commitment to a healthier lifestyle. Well before you approach your surgery date, it’s crucial to understand that the surgery itself is just a tool to help you lose weight; your true success lies in the long-term lifestyle changes you'll need to adopt.
Developing a sustainable workout routine and embracing a nutritious diet are essential components of achieving and maintaining sustained weight loss. Consider the weeks prior to surgery as a valuable period to start ingraining healthy habits that will carry you through your transformation. At Atlanta Bariatrics, our registered in-office dietitians will help guide you through this process.
Reflecting on your motivations for surgery is equally important. Understanding the reasons why you're choosing this path, whether it's to improve your health, boost your energy, or enhance your quality of life, will help you stay focused and committed.
Before your consultation, take the time to assess how ready you are to make these changes, ensuring that you are mentally and emotionally prepared to adapt to a healthy lifestyle and fully embrace the benefits of bariatric surgery.
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
With thorough preparation, a proactive mindset, and a supportive medical team, you're setting yourself up for success. Bariatric surgery can be life-changing, but it requires effort and dedication to maintain long-term results—and at Atlanta Bariatrics, we're here to support you every step of the way.
Don't wait to take control of your health. Schedule your first consultation with Atlanta Bariatrics today, and let our experienced team of surgeons and registered dietitians guide you on your weight loss journey!
