Greetings!

I'm a newbie who decided it was time to stop crawling and start to fly. And hit some blocks. The first orientation I went to ended as soon as it started after the surgeon announced they weren't going to be working with the hospital anymore and weren't taking anymore patients. After I shook off the shock (and dried off a few tears) I got a referral to another facility that is a Level 1. I go to their orientation on May 1st. I'm already kinda overloaded with clinical information but I am wondering what questions I should ask? What are some things others wished they'd asked in the beginning or information I might need that might make the process go smoother?

Thanks to everyone on here. You've been a bigger encouragement than you probably know!

These are the most common questions I see asked, many in posts asking "is this normal?"

1. What is a reasonable amount of weight to expect to lose the first month and/or weekly for My BMI?
2. How many ounces should I limit each of the following: liquids, soft/puree, solids?
3. How common are stalls/plateaus?
4. When is it normal to have the first BM post-op?
5. Can I have caffeine, alcohol, carbonation, etc... (as applies)
6. What are my goals for Protein, carbs, calories, and fluids daily?

When you're thinking about having weight loss surgery, you want to get as much information as possible about what to expect. Start by asking your doctor these questions.

• Am I a good candidate for weight loss surgery?
• Which type of weight loss surgery do you recommend for me?
• How will the surgery help me lose weight?
• What are the risks of this surgery?
• How could the surgery affect other health problems I have?
• How long will I be in the hospital, and off work recovering?
• What type of follow-up care will I need?
• How much food will I be able to eat afterward?
• Are there certain foods I won't be able to eat?
• Will I need Vitamins after my surgery, and if so, what types?
• When can I start exercising after surgery?
• How likely is it that I’ll regain weight after surgery?
• Will I need to have plastic surgery later to remove sagging skin?
• How many weight loss surgeries do you do each year?
• How are your patients doing now?
• How common is it for your patients to have complications? What side effects are most common?
• Will my health insurance cover the surgery? If not, what costs will I have to pay?

Thanks for the suggestions!