If you’ve been fighting irreversible weight gain and related health complications, it may be time to consider gastric bypass, REALIZE/LAP BAND surgery or sleeve gastrectomy.  A weight loss surgery decision should not be taken lightly, however, and neither should your choice of physician.

Before deciding on a doctor, review his/her credentials. Inquire about training, surgical experience and success stories, and remember to address the following questions.

1. Are you a member of the American Board of Bariatric Surgery (ABBS)?
2. What types of procedures are you trained in? How many surgeries have you performed since beginning your practice?
3. What are the risks and possible side effects of my surgery? How can I ensure that I achieve the best possible outcome?
4. Do I have the option of having a laparoscopic procedure? Would you recommend this?
5. What pre- and post-op procedures and testing need to be completed?
6. Will my insurance cover my procedure? Can you help me deal with my insurance company?
7. Will you recommend post-operative nutrition and supplements? Do you have a registered dietitian on staff?
8. How much total weight loss can I expect? How will that affect my current health problems?
9. Can I work with a weight-loss psychologist? Do you have mental health specialists on staff?
10. Can you provide me with references from former patients? Can I speak with them on the phone or in person?

A reputable bariatric surgeon should be happy to answer all of your questions and provide you with the materials and resources you need to make an educated decision about your weight loss procedure.

To schedule an individual consultation with Dr. Wade Barker, call 1-888-OneDrBarker today. Dr. Barker has completed over 2500 bariatric procedures since 1996, and is one of a select few weight loss surgeons to perform both the LAP-BAND procedure and the Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y). Call today to become Barker Bariatric Center’s next success story.