Newbie here I just have a few questions.

[UnDefinedBeauty 0]

Hi I’m considering getting the sleeve done but I’m not too sure of the proper steps to take. Like should I consult with my PCP or should I look into an doctor who specializes in weight loss? What are some of the qualifications that you need to meet in order to qualify for the surgery? & what are some of the pre diets like?

[kakatlady612 1,053]

The way I would handle it, some of which I did, some I should have. PCP first, say to him/her "Do you think I would be a good candidate for Bariatric Surgery? If not how can I get healthier so I would be a good candidate?" If PCP agrees ask if they would be willing to write a letter of referall or do they know of nearby bariatric programs. Ask for a Center of Excellence accreditated hospital or center, they are the creme de la creme of facilities, they can handle all facets of your care and much less likely to have anything go wrong. Study up on the procedure you want, I'll be having a RnY bypass but many people have as good a luck with the Gastric Sleeve, few places do Lap Band, even fewer in the US do,Mini bypass or SIPS but if you're interested just say on here, there are veterans who'll tell you where it's done, one that comes to my mind is Duke University but I'm sure there are more. To meet criteria: BMI above 40, your PCP probably can help you calculate yours if you don't know already. Some programs won't take you If you are below 18 or above 60 years of age. I'm lucky that they don't feel that way in Central Ohio, I am very healthy except for my weight, PCP told me I had a 45year old body trapped in this 72 year old shell.If you have BMI of 35-40 you have to have a condition aggravated by obesity, medicalese name for that is comorbility. sleep Apnea, Diabetes, GERD which is gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly severe heartburn, lung issues, severe arthritis, those the ones I can remember if the top of my head. If you're under 34.9 most US surgeon's will tell you that you can diet it away. Truthfully I think it's more that insurance won't pick up the cost. You'll probably,pay out of your pocket and may even have to go to Mexico. I wouldn't do it, an old saying from my youth:

Everyone to their taste said the old lady as she kissed the cow.

Have a list of questions ready for the surgeon. You'll probably want to know how long you'll be hospitalized, whether a liquid prediet is necessary? Varies from just the day before to several weeks. People on here complain about them quite a bit but sometimes they are necessary. Ask what prerequirements the practice and/or your insurance requires. I had originally private which required 6 months of nutritional supervision, one I have now only requested you be above BMI 40, I had no problem with that as I also had 2 comorbities. I've recently switched programs, my previous surgeon required no liquid prediet, just balanced and low carb before. The new one I'm not sure of, if he requires a liquid I'll try to do it with minimal whining. I have waited so long for my surgery I'd probably crawl over broken glass to get it. Hey text back if you have many questions seems like I'm almost always here, if not there will be someone else with an answer. Hopefully you'll have a beautiful day! PS I have heard Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus Ohio does do under 18 year olds with severe obesity, that's something new under the sun.

Sent from my VS880PP using BariatricPal mobile app

[LauraD84 18]

Hi I’m considering getting the sleeve done but I’m not too sure of the proper steps to take. Like should I consult with my PCP or should I look into an doctor who specializes in weight loss? What are some of the qualifications that you need to meet in order to qualify for the surgery? & what are some of the pre diets like?

[LauraD84 18]

I went to my PCP and he thought it was a great idea. He referred me to a nutritionist and wrote me a letter as well. It’s been six months and last week I had my last nutritionist visit. Good luck to you in your new weight loss journey

[GreenTealael 25,610]

I would first see if your insurance will cover the procedure and what the specific are (preferably in writing )
Then find surgeons that accept your insurance. Next go to a few seminars and narrow down your choices. Talk to your PCP and have them on board and follow the steps they will give you from there

[brookelynzoo 13]

1. Find out if your insurance requires a referral to the weight loss surgery center
2. Find out from your insurance what the medical policy is and what’s required to qualify
3. Pre-op diet is different for each center. Some have all liquids and some have reduced calories

[UnDefinedBeauty 0]

I went to my PCP and he thought it was a great idea. He referred me to a nutritionist and wrote me a letter as well. It’s been six months and last week I had my last nutritionist visit. Good luck to you in your new weight loss journey [emoji1487]

Thank you & Good luck to you also [emoji847]

[Frustr8 7,886]

@ UnDefinedBeauty and @ LauraD84, did you ever have your surgeries. I meet so many nice people on here and I often w/o see how their stories end.