You’ve done the research. You’ve learned about the pros and cons about the LAP-BAND surgery. You’ve compared weight loss procedures and which one works best for you. You’ve even talked to your insurance and understand coverage and requirements. Now, where do you get this done? Who does it in your area and are they good?
Online reputations and reviews can only tell you so much about your future bariatric surgeon, so asking the right questions during your initial consultation is very important. It’s important to understand the surgeon will be a constant part of your LAP-BAND journey, along with his team of health professionals. They will be the ones providing you with the support and necessary tools you need to stay on track both before surgery and after.
During your consultation, educate yourself beyond your internet searches. Let the surgeon tell you about the procedure, how it works, why it works, and their personal philosophy behind the LAP-BAND. If you don’t understand something, ask for clarification or a different way to explain what you’re not understanding. You’re interviewing the surgeon to perform a surgery on you, make sure you understand everything and feel comfortable. Here are some great questions we’ve been asked from successful LAP-BAND patients.
Just like going through the hiring process for employment, experience is important. When it comes to medical experience, you want a combination of actual surgery performance and continuing education. Medicine constantly evolves, so you want to make sure your bariatric surgeon and his surgical team is up to date on the latest techniques and advances. Experience is key.
Understanding how your future surgeon utilizes the LAP-BAND and why they choose this procedure over others can help you understand the approach to surgery and post-surgery care. Bariatric surgery is a small part in your weight loss journey, it’s a tool that will help you lose weight. The surgeon’s philosophy will let you know what they expect from you, what they believe is their part in your success, and what tools they provide you with to succeed.
This is probably one of our favorite questions and that’s because we have a lot to offer. Like we mentioned before, LAP-BAND surgery is only a small part in your weight loss journey. It’s a tool, not something to lean on, but something to utilize. Learning how to correctly use this tool will have a huge impact on your success. Knowing what our practice has to offer will fill in the gaps for the areas you need help with. From learning what and how to eat to constant support group to individualized grocery shopping and meal prepping, Dr. McEwen’s team offers a wide variety of education, support, and treatment services to all patients.
Once our patient, always our patient. We will always be a source of help even if you no longer live nearby. In the case of relocation, our team will refer you to a LAP-BAND doctor we know and trust in the area. We will always be available for questions and to make your move a smooth transition.
This question lets us express our passion for bariatric surgery and weight loss and lets you see the passion your surgeon has for what he/she does! Knowing you can rely on your surgeon and that they will be happy to assist you can be more important than surgery itself. Like we said, surgery is a small part of the journey, counting on your surgeon and his team will play a big role in your personal weight loss success.
These are just some of the questions we have seen successful patients ask. Ultimately, you need to ask the questions that will make you feel comfortable. Your body, your health, your decision.
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If you would like to learn more about Dr. McEwen and his Community Surgery Center Hamilton team please visit our Facebook page or call our office at 317-621-2500.
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