Question:
What specific questions should I ask my dr?

I finally have my first meeting with my Dr. to discuss WLS. I have been researching WLS and am pretty sure this is what I want to do. I have a list of questions to ask my Dr., but I was wondering if any of you that have already been through this have anything specific I should ask about? Thank you in advance.    — KATHLEEN H. (posted on August 28, 2001)

August 28, 2001
One thing you should ask is how many surgeries he/she has performed. Also, whether support is required and/or available. I am a firm believer that support groups and counseling really help us improve our chances of success.
   — ctyst

August 31, 2001
I would ask what the surgeon's background and training has been in the field of WLS; how many procedures has he/she performed; what his/her mortality rate has been for WLS; what types of WLS procedures does he/she routinely perform; the advantages and disadvantages of each; which procedure he/she feels would most likely meet your individual needs; do you have the option of laparascopic surgery or is his/her practice limited to "open" surgeries; what pre-op tests are required; the expected length of hospital stay; what type of anesthesia does he/she prefer (general, spinal, epidural); should you expect to spend any time in the ICU if the surgery is without complications; should you expect to have any tubes or drains post-op; what type of pain management should you expect; what type of after-care is offered (nutritional counseling, support groups, collaboration with your PCP, routine post-op labs and follow-up visits, etc...); how accessible is he/she to patients post-op (answering service, telephone, personal e-mail); does he/she provide a comprehensive packet of post-op information for your PCP (copy of the operative report, "trouble-shooting" instructions...common problems or complications and how to address them). Remember that YOU are the consumer...don't be shy about going into the office with a lengthy list of questions; most surgeons appreciate a patient who comes prepared...also don't be shy about asking the "hard" questions (how much experience, how many surgeries performed, how many deaths...); if your surgeon is even slightly reluctant to answer those questions, or seems offended that you have asked, then that is your cue to find another surgeon immediately. Best of luck to you!
   — Diana T.