When should I?

That's really between you and your doc. My VSG included once a month follow-up appointments up to 1 year. I stopped going to him at my ninth appointment. I always got a good report and I just felt like I didn't need to keep going back.

Honestly, I'd check with insurance because some are saying if you don't follow the routine check ups they'll stop paying.

My dr requires 5yrs of follow-ups, though I'm not sure how often the check-ups are after the first yr. They also urge us to go to the free support groups that they hold every month. It helps them in their studies of patients who have the surgeries.

My doctor requires annual checkups for life. He is also involved in research on bariatric surgery outcomes, so I'm sure he appreciates the data he collects from those who've given permission.

The way I figure, we should plan on going to the doctor, support groups, and nutritionist for the long haul. Even though it seems redundant at times, it's vital to our long term success!

After the first year my doc only wants to see me once a year, just to make sure things are going ok. It also helps them track and identify long term successes/ failures/ complications so that future patients can make a more informed decision. I have no problem going in once a year to check in and maybe get a little blood work done. But it's really up to you. If you think you don't need or want to go anymore, then don't. But like others said, it might be a good idea to make sure your insurance doen't require it for so long after.

When should I?

I was told my bariatric doctor would be one of my doctors for the rest of my life.

I went pretty often for the first year. Then I had a 1.5 year appointment. The next time I see him, I will be at 2.5 years. From here on out, it will be annually.

I was referred out for bariatric surgery with Kaiser and I stopped seeing my bariatric doc at 1 year out and have follow ups with my PCP and a Case Manager in the referral department.....

Kaiser Fremont (NorCal) schedules post-op appts at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, six months, 1 year and then annually. I'm looking forward to my two-year post-op appt in a few weeks. I'll also be stopping by the support group meeting while I'm there.

Lynda

I thought it was for life? I saw my dr/ nut at 1 wk, 2 wks, 1 month, 2 month...I am struggling with fluids & protein...and they keep having me come in...I need the support since I hate this...so I don't mind going so far...

Kaiser Fremont (NorCal) schedules post-op appts at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, six months, 1 year and then annually. I'm looking forward to my two-year post-op appt in a few weeks. I'll also be stopping by the support group meeting while I'm there.

Lynda

This is the same schedule my surgeon told me I'd be on.

My surgeon requires 2 weeks post op 1 month post op 2-3 month post op the. 6 months then 9 months then every year once a year til I die i dont mind great people at my bari unit. If its up to u then do whats right for you.

So my scale is a little off, went to doc and its 55 and a half!! Whoo hoo! I go back in 3 mos so its doable.

After 18 months I go annually until whenever they tell me to stop. At least 5 years for my insurance.