Appointment with Surgeon - Questions

[Daily Encounter 16]

Friday was my last appointment for my 6 months medically supervised weight loss as required by my insurance (Anthem BCBS); this week I am to receive a call from the Bariatric Coordinator to schedule my appointment with the surgeon. There are some questions I know I want to ask but what did you all ask the surgeon during your appointments?

[ChaosUnlimited 559]

Most of my questions were related to trying to decide which surgery to have.

I also asked about complication rates and potential complications down the road, as well as long term success rates. Is there support offered for patients 1, 2, or 5 years later so they don't regain?

I was concerned because my surgeon is >70 miles from where I live so if I had complications and had to go to the ER, would they transfer me to his hospital or would he consult by phone?

I wanted to make sure I'd be kept comfortable after surgery - I have issues with nausea after anesthesia.

I wanted to know about recovery time and when I would be able to go back to work comfortably, post op diet expectations, and Vitamin regimen. How long do I wait before being able to lift anything or exercise? Drive?

I was concerned about malabsorption issues and asked how often they check vitamin levels and do post op visits. How easy is it to speak to someone at the office if I am having a problem that is not emergency but important to me?

There were probably more but I can't think of them now. If I find my list I'll come back and update.

Edited November 12, 2017 by ChaosUnlimited