Picking the Right Surgeon for Your Lap Band Surgery

Once you have determined that you are a candidate for lap band surgery, you will need to find yourself a surgeon. Bariatric surgery, also known as weight loss surgery, is a very specialized field. It is not cosmetic surgery but a general surgery. That being said, if you are interested in this type of surgery, you need to see a bariatric surgeon. But how do you choose the right surgeon for you? Here are some tips to help you with during your decision-making process.

Choose Wisely

A surgeon’s experience is the most critical factor you should consider when making your decision. If you choose a highly experienced surgeon, you can significantly improve your results. On the same note, going with a surgeon with minimal to no experience can dramatically decrease your chances of success. Make sure when interviewing surgeons, you include numerous questions regarding the experience levels of them and their staff. Their success rate should be another determining factor for you as well.

Finding a doctor that is dedicated to not only your surgical needs but your pre and post-surgery needs as well is crucial. If the doctor you are interviewing is unwilling to answer any questions you have, then it is time to move on. Discussing all of your options, along with your goals and expectations, should be a top priority for any surgeon you choose. Any information you require should be given to you happily and without hesitation.

You Want to Be in Good Hands

A right bariatric surgeon should also offer support with diet and exercise advice and guidelines. You will rely a lot on your doctor during this trying time, and the support they give and the compassion they show should be a top priority for both you and the surgeon. You need to feel comfortable with him or her. If there is no comfort level present, again, move on. Your relationship with your surgeon doesn’t just end when you exit the operating room, either. There will be plenty of follow-up visits and lap band adjustments you will have to have. So trusting your surgeon is a key to achieving the utmost success. You should be able to work together with your doctor without anxiety or discomfort.

Another great way to find the right doctor for you is to ask for recommendations from other patients and those in the medical community. Your primary care doctor may be able to offer up the names of those you can speak to who have gone through the same experiences you are about to. Also, don’t forget about the power of the internet. There are many online communities you can become a part of for advice, experiences, referrals, and support.

So, when you are at the point where you are ready for lap band surgery, I hope you use these guidelines. Your health is nothing to mess with. The person you trust your health and well-being should be the same person you would trust with your life. In essence, that is precisely what you are doing.