Weight issues have been a major public health challenge in the US for decades, and things aren’t looking good. According to the CDC data, the prevalence of obesity in American adults was a shocking 40.3% between August 2021 and August 2023. No significant difference was observed between males and females. Adults ages 40–59 reported a higher prevalence compared to the age groups 20–39 and 60 and older.
While many obese people struggle to shed pounds throughout their lives, some opt for surgical solutions. The procedure offers quick, effective, and lasting results if done correctly and followed up well. The success of these procedures depends on the skills and expertise of the surgeons performing them.
Choosing a skilled and trustworthy bariatric surgeon is a critical decision for a patient. If you plan to schedule a surgery, remember that your health, lifestyle, and long-term success depend on choosing the right professional. Your surgeon should be your partner every step of the way, from recovery to maintaining the results.
Here’s how you can make an informed choice by asking the questions that matter most.
1. Are You a Board-Certified Bariatric Surgeon?
Start by verifying their credentials because they matter the most. Board certification is the gold standard. It indicates that the surgeon has done specialized training in bariatric surgery and has cleared rigorous exams. A board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeon is also up to date with the latest surgical techniques and follows stringent safety protocols.
Also, ensure that the certification is from reputable organizations like the American Board of Surgery or equivalent. This is a sign of commitment to quality and ongoing education. Rather than going by their word, you should ask for documentation or check the hospital’s website for verification.
2. How Many Surgeries Have You Performed Up to Now?
The NIH reports that as many as 206,953 adults in the US have undergone bariatric surgery between 2012 and 2021. The numbers declined during the pandemic due to the obvious reasons, but they still show the inclination toward surgical weight loss. When it comes to surgical outcomes, experience counts.
A high-volume bariatric surgeon is more likely to be familiar with both routine and complex cases. The complication rates decrease as a surgeon’s experience grows. Ask directly for the number of procedures performed and the typical outcomes in their practice. Also, check their experience with the specific type of surgery you are considering, whether it’s a gastric sleeve, bypass, or another method.
3. Which Type of Surgery Do You Recommend for Me?
Every patient is unique, and not all weight loss procedures are suitable for everyone. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the gastric bypass is the most common among bariatric surgical procedures. Relatively safe and simple, it has fewer complications compared to other methods like gastric bypass, Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD-DS), and Stomach Intestinal Pylorus Sparing Surgery (SIPS).
Your surgeon should evaluate your medical history, lifestyle, eating habits, and health conditions to recommend the best option for you. Ask why a particular surgery is being suggested and how it aligns with your specific needs. A good surgeon knows that the choice should be personalized, not just based on popular trends, but on what fits you best.
4. What Are the Risks, Benefits, and Expected Weight Loss?
All surgeries carry risks, and bariatric procedures are not an exception. You should have a transparent, detailed discussion about possible complications, both general and procedure-specific, with your surgeon. They should explain immediate and long-term, and the need for further interventions should also be highlighted.
Ask them about expected weight loss percentages and how they track success in their clinic. According to The Bariatric & Metabolic Center of Colorado, a provider should help patients lose weight and keep it off. Health improvements are often seen after surgery, such as diabetes remission, lower blood pressure, and improved mobility. Being fully informed will let you weigh the pros and cons of the procedure.
5. Can the Surgery be Reversed or Revised if Needed?
Yale Medicine notes that nearly 7-15% of patients get revisional weight loss surgeries. The main types of revisional procedures are divided into reversal, modification, and alteration. These are done to reverse the original surgery, improve its effectiveness, or reduce the side effects. Ask your surgeon whether a reversal or revision will be possible for you.
Be aware that all weight loss surgeries are reversible. Some, like gastric bypass, are permanent, while others, like adjustable gastric banding, can be reversed or revised if you don’t meet your weight loss goals or complications arise. Ask about revision policies, what revision procedures are commonly performed, and what the indications for revision would be.
6. What Kind of Long-Term Follow-Up Care is Provided by Your Team?
Successful weight loss and maintenance post-surgery require ongoing support. The best bariatric surgery programs provide comprehensive aftercare. They offer regular check-ins, access to registered dietitians, and physical activity guidance. You may also get support groups and psychological counseling from them.
Ask your surgeon how often follow-ups are scheduled. Also, check whether you can contact your team with questions between visits, and what resources are available to support your emotional health. Find out if the practice offers virtual or in-person support group meetings because they are convenient and accessible.
7. How Long Will I Have to Stay in the Hospital?
Recovery time for weight loss procedures can vary based on different factors. These include the type of surgery, the patient’s health status, and the specific protocols followed at your hospital. Minimally invasive procedures result in shorter hospital stays, sometimes just one or two days. Conversely, open surgeries or those requiring close monitoring might require a longer stay.
Before scheduling a procedure, ask about the typical length of stay for your recommended procedure and the criteria for discharge. Clarify what milestones you need to meet to go home safely. Also, inquire about the support that is arranged for you immediately post-discharge.
The Bottomline
Weight loss surgery, like any other surgical procedure, comes with a fair share of risks and complications. Yet, done correctly by a seasoned surgeon, it can deliver benefits beyond healthy weight loss. You can achieve your health goals, become more confident, and enjoy a good quality of life. Asking your surgeon these questions will help you go ahead with confidence and peace of mind.