Every hospital or clinic has its own process – there is not a single ‘standard’ experience as a bariatric patient. However, you’ll find that many facilities follow a process like this one.

Let’s break down the overall process into two equally important categories: what can happen before surgery, and what patients should experience after surgery. Remember, weight loss surgery is not just a one-off medical procedure but a change that affects the rest of your life.    

Before surgery

As you’re considering whether to have bariatric surgery, you need to gather lots of information. Likewise, the clinic or hospital you’re exploring needs to get to know you. Here are some typical ways that happens:

  • You take part in a weight loss seminar  
    Whether online or in person, free seminars or informational meetings are a great way to get a feel for what you can expect. You might be asked at the seminar to fill out a health questionnaire, as the clinic’s staff will need some health information from you upfront if you choose to make an appointment with a bariatric surgeon. Get tips on finding the right bariatric clinic.
  • You meet with a bariatric surgeon
     You’ll talk to the surgeon about which type of weight loss treatment is right for you, and you’ll be able to ask the facility’s staff your many questions. At this meeting, someone will also weigh and measure you. Download a guide of questions you should consider asking.
  • You might be offered medical nutrition therapy 
    If you have decided to have bariatric surgery, many facilities require that you attend medical nutrition therapy. This is to help ensure your success after surgery by preparing you for the many lifestyle changes you’ll have to make after the operation.
  • You might need to meet with a psychologist
    Some facilities use such a meeting to ensure your mental readiness for surgery. Your expectations must be realistic, you must understand and agree to the impact of surgery, and you must be able to change your lifestyle.
  • You attend various appointments and take various medical tests 
    Appointments can be either educational or medical, and the intent is to prepare you for the surgery. This can include dietary instructions and medical tests, for example.

What’s next for you?

First, of course, you need to think it over yourself. And if you’re potentially interested, you'll need careful evaluation by healthcare professionals to determine whether surgery is right for you.

In the meantime, you might want to read this article:

Curious about whether you might qualify for bariatric surgery? 

Find out here
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