What Questions to ask surgeon

[Ibejjo 47]

I am hoping to meet with my surgeon at the end of this week or beginning or next week. What questions should I ask him during the appointment? All sugeestions appreciated and welcomed.

Thanks in advance.

Jenn

[TexasT 99]

Ask how many WLS he's done, then a breakdown of each type. What's his complication rate, including leaks? Has he had any deaths? How long has he been doing WLS? What are his pre and post-op diets? How much weight does he think you'll lose within one year? What does he suggest your target weight should be?

How long will you be hospitalized? How does he control pain post-op? Will you have an implanted pain pump? What is his follow-up plan post-op? Will you see him in the hospital post-op or does he use a "floor doctor"? I had a floor doctor after my surgery and was very happy with her, so this is not a bad thing. You just need to know what to expect. If he finds adhesions or a hernia while operating, how does he handle?

Just a few suggestions...I'm sure others will chime in too.

[NtvTxn 1,262]

I am hoping to meet with my surgeon at the end of this week or beginning or next week. What questions should I ask him during the appointment? All sugeestions appreciated and welcomed.

Thanks in advance.

Jenn

I cannot remember what I asked except "What size bougie do you do?" Dr. Davidson does a 32....which left me with about a 3 oz tummy.....perfect, it is what I was hoping for. No larger, no smaller.

[lisabug 10]

I would also see what tests he requires pre op. You may want to ask if he allows you to swallow pills or if they have to be crushed. This will give you some time in case you have to change medicines.

[Cinderella 2]

I asked about how many surgeries, how many leaks or complications, any deaths... and then into the questions about the pre-op, post-op diet, and how pain was controlled immediately after surgery, and then I asked what sized Bougie, and whether they over-stiched the staples.

I also asked the total price, and how long I'd be in the hospital, whether I'd have a private room, and if he would send me home with both pain meds and gas meds.

You can't have too much information!

Good luck, Cinderella

[Nanu 60]

I cannot remember what I asked except "What size bougie do you do?" Dr. Davidson does a 32....which left me with about a 3 oz tummy.....perfect, it is what I was hoping for. No larger, no smaller.

[Nanu 60]

So glad you posted size, I had no idea. Thanks