If you or a loved one has struggled with obesity for quite some time and
you feel like you have tried everything possible without lasting results,
bariatric weight loss surgery could be a great option for you. It’s
important to consider, though, choosing to have weight loss surgery is
a life-long commitment and will require permanent lifestyle changes.
Do You Qualify for Weight Loss Surgery?
When considering weight loss surgery options, it’s important to remember
that weight loss surgery is a life-long commitment and will require permanent
lifestyle changes. The decision to have weight loss surgery should include
careful consideration and consultation with an experienced bariatric surgeon.
If you meet the following criteria, you could be a candidate for the Archbold
Bariatric and Weight Management Program.
Bariatric Program Entry Criteria
Must have a BMI of 40 or greater or a BMI of 35 with a serious obesity-related
medical condition, i.e. diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure
Must be 21- 65 years of age for the surgical track
Must be willing to make significant, permanent changes to eating habits
and lifestyle
Must be willing to undergo three to six months of a monitored weight loss
program. This is a requirement of insurance companies.
Must not be addicted to drugs or alcohol
Must stop smoking two weeks prior to surgery
Must demonstrate commitment to diet program and attend all appointments
before and after surgery
A $200 program fee will be required. This fee will apply toward the deductible
at the time of surgery and can be paid in three installments, if necessary.
What Happens Next?
The decision to have weight loss surgery should include careful consideration
and consultation with an experienced bariatric surgeon and other qualified
healthcare professionals.
Initial Evaluation
The recommended method of treatment depends on a patient’s level
of obesity, overall health condition and readiness to lose weight. A nurse
will meet with you during your initial visit to discuss your medical history
and your previous attempts to lose weight.
Physician Evaluation
A physician will meet with you to discuss your past medical history and
current health status. The physician will determine the appropriate program
for you at this time.
Psychological Evaluation
Psychological counseling is an important part of the patient support system
and is critical to long term weight loss success. Patients must receive
psychological clearance prior to qualifying for weight loss surgery.
Pre-surgery
Once you have committed to the Archbold Bariatric and Weight Management
Program, met with the nurse, physician and psychologist, weight loss surgery
may be recommended. The team will guide you through the remaining steps
prior to surgery:
Final medical clearance by the physician
Surgical consult with the bariatric surgeon
Nutritional evaluation with the dietitian
Post-surgery
To ensure your continued success, the program is designed to provide nutritional,
emotional and physical support after bariatric surgery. Post-surgery support includes:
Post-op check with the surgeon approximately two weeks after surgery
Physician visits (6-8) in the first year to monitor weight loss and overall
health status
Dietitian visits for nutritional counseling periodically for the first
year after surgery
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