Take the Fear Out of Weight Loss Surgery Consults

Article By: Whittany Gibson, RDN

Whittany is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who specializes in bariatric nutrition counseling, providing education and support prior to and following weight loss surgery.

Have you been considering weight loss surgery for some time but dreading the consultation? If so, you’re not alone. Many people may be scared of what they will hear during a weight loss consult or what they need to do in order to move forward with their journey. But fear not! Here are some tips on how to make sure you’re not only ready but excited about your appointment!

1) Start by making a list. Before your appointment, make a list of all the questions and concerns you have about weight loss surgery. This will help ensure that when your consultation begins, you won’t forget anything important and can get the answers you need. In addition, bringing a friend or family member along for support is also highly recommended. Having someone else in the room can take some of the pressure off and allow you to focus on the discussion at hand.

2) Do your homework. There are tons of resources available online about different types of weight loss surgeries, and it’s important to do your research before going into your consultation. Knowing what type of surgery is best suited for you and being able to talk through the pros and cons with your doctor will be very helpful when making an informed decision. Additionally, learning more about what happens during recovery can also help alleviate potential anxiety associated with surgery day itself.

3) Be open about your goals. When discussing possible options for weight loss surgery, it is important to be honest about your goals and expectations from this process. Discussing topics such as expected weight loss, lifestyle changes needed after surgery, long-term effects/risks associated with the procedure, etc. is key in helping your surgeon come up with an individualized treatment plan tailored towards achieving success.

Considering weight loss surgery can feel overwhelming... However, taking small steps like these prior to meeting with a surgeon can make for a smoother transition into this part of your health journey! By preparing yourself both mentally and physically before heading into your consultation, you create an environment where success is more likely — meaning no more dreading appointments or worrying about outcomes!

BariMelts provides general recommendations, not to be construed as medical advice. Please consult your doctor.