I was wondering how do I mention WLS to my doctor? When it comes to important things like this I always freeze up and stammer. I don't want to sound uninformed and I don't want to hear her tell me I shouldn't consider it.

How did you tell your PCP?

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My PCP brought it up to me. Just tell them that you've been thinking about WLS and take it from there. Go to seminar at a Bariatric Program so you have some knowledge before you discuss it. Most PCPs will be on board.

I am a pretty regular customer with check-ups every three months, and I think we discussed my weight and possible corrections to make, every time I went in. Finally, I just got to the point where I just asked him if he thought I would be a good candidate for a lap-band. I had never heard of a sleeve.

He gave me the number of the bariatric clinic at a nearby university hospital, and they taught me about my surgical options. I chose the sleeve. I had mentioned the lap-band in August, and was sleeved in December that same year.

You TELL the PCP, you don't ask. It's your body and your decision. Opinions and or support are one thing, but it's not up to them. They can be on board and help or just keep any negativity to themselves. If they can't, go elsewhere.

oops, duplicate post

My surgeon's office called my PCP and told them I needed a physical and a letter of reference to submit to insurance. I didn't have to tell him anything, I just had to show up to the appointment!

I was well on my way into the process before my PCP noticed that I needed a surgical clearance. Whoops! I felt kinda bad--that doesn't happen often. Your PCP should be kept up to date with what's going on with you and your health. Otherwise he/she could feel "slighted" and end up getting his/her panties in a twist---not a good thing if you ever need a signature on a form in the future.

Write down the items you want to discuss with your PCP during your visit. Do not leave the office until you have had the opportunity to go over every last item. It's YOUR visit. Do not be just another "fifteen minutes". You deserve all the time you need.

You go, Girl! Be assertive---not aggressive. --big difference.

Prayers going up for you.

My surgeon's office called my PCP and told them I needed a physical and a letter of reference to submit to insurance. I didn't have to tell him anything, I just had to show up to the appointment!

Many insurance plans will require a referral to the Surgeon so you're better off discussing it up front.

I think going to the seminar first is a great idea...........schedule an appointment with your PCP a day or two later. Open the conversation with..."I just went to this great seminar and I think this is a great opportunity for me, and I want your support. What do you think?".................

Good luck!!!!

My insurance doesn't require a referral, so my PCP doesn't even know. I hope you find your own way to tell her so that you're comfortable. Just remember why you're doing it; it's for your, not for your doctor to approve of.

I have a brand new pcp and I have my first appointment this coming Tuesday. I will bring it up and see how it goes. I am very nervous because I don't already have a relationship with her and this will be part of her first impression with me. I'll let you know how it goes and exactly how I brought it up.

I have a brand new pcp and I have my first appointment this coming Tuesday. I will bring it up and see how it goes. I am very nervous because I don't already have a relationship with her and this will be part of her first impression with me. I'll let you know how it goes and exactly how I brought it up.

Sounds like a perfect time to talk about it.

Thank you all for the encouragement! I have my appointment in two days and will let you guys know how it all goes. I definitely want this. I guess I'm just nervous because the only person who is supportive is my twin sister. My mom yelled at me, we got into a big argument over it and my other sister thinks I'm just joking around. But I've been fluctuating all my life and want to have a some what steady weight and be more confident in myself! Wish me luck!

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Be sure to mention all of the health issues you don't want to end up with. Get some info on your family's medical history.

How did your appointment go? I had mine today and my new pcp said she would be happy to help me and give referral if I need one. I just told her my story and she said she believes me when I said I tried everything and I am smart to want to take this step. I hope everything went well with your doctor.

Edited May 3, 201610 yr by rosestara

You TELL the PCP, you don't ask. It's your body and your decision. Opinions and or support are one thing, but it's not up to them. They can be on board and help or just keep any negativity to themselves. If they can't, go elsewhere.

I agree 100% with Recycled you tell your PCP about your decision. It is your health and your decision if they do not want to support you then you need to find a PCP that will.

I told my PCP and he was a bit shocked (because we had never discussed it and my surgery was the next week) but said ultimately it was my decision. When I got back I followed up with him; 30 some odd pounds down in a month and he told me he felt I made a great decision and plans on helping me lose all my weight during the honeymoon phase.