Finding the top bariatric surgeon in Chicago involves a daunting selection process that is very important. The primary consideration when deciding should be based upon the surgeon’s experience performing bariatrics surgery. Highly experienced surgeons have successfully reduced the rates of post surgery complications according to studies done by the American Society of Bariatric Surgery and are certified. To find accredited Chicago Bariatric Surgeons please see the list of Illinois Bariatric surgery centers here.
Bariatric surgeons often referred to as weight loss surgeons are physicians who perform bariatric surgery, to promote weight loss in patients with morbid obesity. Bariatric surgery such as lapband surgery, involves rerouting or manipulating the gastrointestinal system to restrict food intake, food absorption or both. After surgery, patients must commit to a lifetime of health habits, including healthy eating and physical activity, to ensure the surgery’s success.
Training to become a bariatric surgeon involves four years of medical or osteopath school, five to seven years of a general surgery residency and one to two years of a minimally invasive fellowship. During the residency, the physician receives training in multiple surgical subspecialties, including bariatric surgery.
Top bariatric surgeons should have plenty of experience in the procedure that you want done as well as invasive or open procedures. Bariatric surgeons will carefully screen patients to ensure they are appropriate for surgery. Generally, candidates must be adults, have a body mass index (BMI) equal to or greater than 35; have an obesity-related medical condition; have had only short-term results with diet and exercise; and not have a disease causing obesity. Candidates must have a rigorous psychological examination to demonstrate they are ready to make substantial lifestyle changes.
Testimonials of the surgeon’s skills from patients can be a good indication especially if they are willing to recommend their surgeon to family and friends.
Being well informed decisions and having the knowledge of what to expect may help you manage any potential challenges.
Make sure your health insurance provider covers weight loss procedures. Also, some weight loss surgery centers may include financing or payment options.
Look for informational seminars and support groups regarding weight loss surgery and attend as many as possible to help you choose your surgeon.
Keep on hand a list of questions you want to ask such as:
- What is the best physicians weight loss center?
- What types of weight loss surgery do they perform?
- What are your weight loss surgery options?
- What is gastric bypass surgery?
- What is a lapband procedure?
- What is a sleeve gastrectomy?
- How much your weight loss surgery cost?
- What would be your diet after weight loss surgery?
- What would be an expected weight loss after surgery?
