Hello ladies & gents!

I'm considering to have bariatric surgery. Where do I start? Do I go to PCP first? Or should I do to a bariatric surgeon?

My BMI... 41.5 and it has been affecting my blood pressure.

Please help!!

Ask your pcp to refer you. If not search the web fo a seminar.

I started with a seminar at my doctor's office (free). Learned a bunch and then approached my PCP. I thought she would be difficult to convince (she's old school) but she went with it and wrote me a letter of recommendation. Do your research online, talk to people that you may know that have had WLS, ask lots of questions of the doctor and staff. If you're going the insurance route, there may be several requirements before surgery (stuff like doctor supervised weight plans, tests, etc. - you can Google it). Good luck! I was sleeved on Nov. 19 and have never been happier.

Thanks ASCooke

I think u should go for it I was a heavier bmi of 57 . Something but I was sick nd was referral cuz I was diagnose with hypertension nd a few otha things called my primary and he was all for givin. me the referral so was happy my surgery date was july 16 and I aint been this size since I was 17 yrs old

MaryLynn

I researched the different programs near me and then went to their information session. Most programs should have them. They go over what qualifies one for the surgery, the different kinds of surgeries available, and who is a likely candidate for each one. It was helpful to me when making my decision.

Go to a free seminar of the bariatric surgeon of your choice then let your PCP know. My PCP was more than supportive. If not, then it's time to get a new PCP. If you went to a seminar today, you may get scheduled for surgery within 8 weeks so that is about the lead time to expect.