Getting Started with Weight loss SurgeryMy patients are just as important to me as my family. Your decision to pursue surgery for weight loss will change your life and because of this, it is a choice that cannot be made lightly. Dr. Whittwell and his staff are here to support, educate, guide, and assist you as much as we possibly can. Above all, we want to make sure you have the most accurate and complete information available before you make your choice. To do this we suggest you follow the following steps: 1. Learn more about Bariatric SurgeryVisit the information pages on our website for the procedure you are intereseted in. You may also participate in an optional online learning session about bariatric surgery. Register for online learning here. 2. Check your eligibility for SurgeryNot everyone is eligible for bariatric surgery. While every case is evaluated individually, there are general criteria that you should be familiar with. Check eligibility criteria. 3. Attend a Free Education SeminarDr. Whittwell leads our free education seminar where he will provide you with a thorough overview of Adjustable Gastric Band, Roux-en-Y gastric Bypass, and Sleeve gastrectomy procedures. Dr. Whittwell will discuss the advantages, disadvantages, risks, possible complications, success rate and expected outcomes of each procedure so that you are well informed about every aspect of the surgery. 4. Review Your InsuranceThere are several options available for meeting the costs involved in bariatric surgery. Because each insurance carrier is different, you must check your policy to see if bariatric procedures are covered and the specific eligibility criteria that may be required. Our insurance specialists are happy to guide you through the process with your insurance carrier. If bariatric surgery is not covered by your insurance carrier, we will provide you with information about other payment options that many of our patients use. 5. Medical ConsultationSchedule a medical consultation with Dr. Whittwell. After a thorough evaluation, Dr. Whitwell will discuss the bariatric surgery options that are most appropriate for you and answer all of your questions and concerns. 6. Nutrition, Support and Follow up |
|