My frst consultation went alright I also had a gazillion questions! although he was in a hurry he did answer my questions. I have never heard of anyone putting weights on there ankles that would be considered cheating. You will have to get a referral from you primary doctor to okay surgery so they will want an EKG done, some blood tests, x-ray.. maybe less, maybe more depends on your medical history. You dr. will then give you a number to call a phycitrist which you will have to pay out of pocket to see for 1 day. So far I have have my first appoinment I have to lose 10lbs. by Feb. 24th. I see a phycitrist Feb. 17th.