Top 5 Questions to Ask your Surgeon about Gastric Bypass Surgery

If you are considering gastric bypass as a type of bariatric surgery to help you lose weight it is incredibly important that you are knowledgeable about the entire procedure. There are lots of different little things that you will need to know, such as diet and exercise options, for example, that you may not think about until after. Be ready before the operation ever takes place. Any type of bariatric surgery is a huge lifestyle adjustment and it is very important that you are informed and ready long before the operation day. Follow the lead of other bariatric patients and talk to your doctor about any confusion you have, here are five questions to ask your surgeon to help get the dialogue going!

1. What is “gastric bypass?” Are there different kinds that I should consider?

This is one of the most common questions that patients have, and it’s a good question too! It is important to always know your options.

2. How do I lose weight after the gastric bypass surgery?

Talking to your doctor about the specific lifestyle adjustments, not to mention the alterations to your physical body, will help you to have a clear understanding of what you need to do to ensure weight loss after your operation.

3. Are there risks involved?

The answer to this question is going to be yes. The important thing is that your surgeon explains these risks to you in a fashion that will help you to understand, and that you receive any advice necessary to avoid and prevent complications.

4. Is there a special diet I will need to follow after gastric bypass?

This is one of the most important questions you will need to discuss with your physician. There is a very strict diet plan associated the gastric bypass bariatric surgery option, and failure to follow the dietary guidelines can result in complications, and is likely to prevent weight loss.

5. How much does this procedure cost?

Your surgeon will be able to help you with this by directing you to someone that can help. Many insurance companies will cover gastric bypass, if all qualifications have been met by their standards. This includes a certain BMI level and a presence of co-morbid diseases that make the surgery necessary. If you are paying in cash for gastric bypass the procedure may cost between $20,000 and $30,000, depending on the state and individual practice.