surgeon

[TatorTot 44]

Can someone help me find a surgeon? I googled it and found all kinds of info but not detailed info about the surgeons in my area. How did you find your surgeon? where do I start?

I would ask around but I really don't know who to ask, or where to go. I am new to the area...........eeekss

[Luvin_Life125 558]

That is tough. I started with my insurance plan and found which surgeons and hospitals are in network. That first step narrowed down my choices drastically. Then I googled each of the surgeon's names to see what came up. The next step was to schedule an appointment with the office closest to me ( 3 hours away). Fortunately, I was comfortable with the practice, the staff, and their process.

Choosing a surgeon is daunting because so much rests on the decision. My biggest concern was the doctor's post op follow up plan for patients. I wanted a practice who took the post operative process seriously and took responsibility for guiding their patients. I wish you luck to find someone who works for you and your needs.

[fit4life123 108]

I first looked at local hospitals but when I got insurance I looked on their website to find out where I could go that would be in network. My insurance required a "Blue Distinction" hospital regardless but I happened to live on right next to it at my college campus.

I would start with local hospitals near you and look at the reviews of each surgeon. The complication rates, follow up procedures, pre op procedures like counseling, nutrition classes, psych visit, etc.

I also looked at the amount of procedures my surgeon had done and how long they were in Bariatric medicine, also if they could perform the surgery laparoscopically and not an open procedure. (My surgeon only does it if there is a complication)

[Sharon1964 2,530]

My primary care doctor said that a particular surgeon was the only one he would allow to do the surgery, and he referred me there.

Some surgeons want you to be referred from your primary doctor, so they know your other health issues (if any) are being followed.