What Do You Wish You'd Asked?

[HawkFeather 2]

Greetings!

I'm a newbie who decided it was time to stop crawling and start to fly. And hit some blocks. The first orientation I went to ended as soon as it started after the surgeon announced they weren't going to be working with the hospital anymore and weren't taking anymore patients. After I shook off the shock (and dried off a few tears) I got a referral to another facility that is a Level 1. I go to their orientation on May 1st. I'm already kinda overloaded with clinical information but I am wondering what questions I should ask? What are some things others wished they'd asked in the beginning or information I might need that might make the process go smoother?

Thanks to everyone on here. You've been a bigger encouragement than you probably know!

[liannatx 897]

These are the most common questions I see asked, many in posts asking "is this normal?"

1. What is a reasonable amount of weight to expect to lose the first month and/or weekly for My BMI?
2. How many ounces should I limit each of the following: liquids, soft/puree, solids?
3. How common are stalls/plateaus?
4. When is it normal to have the first BM post-op?
5. Can I have caffeine, alcohol, carbonation, etc... (as applies)
6. What are my goals for Protein, carbs, calories, and fluids daily?

[GreenEyes604 753]

When you're thinking about having weight loss surgery, you want to get as much information as possible about what to expect. Start by asking your doctor these questions.

• Am I a good candidate for weight loss surgery?
• Which type of weight loss surgery do you recommend for me?
• How will the surgery help me lose weight?
• What are the risks of this surgery?
• How could the surgery affect other health problems I have?
• How long will I be in the hospital, and off work recovering?
• What type of follow-up care will I need?
• How much food will I be able to eat afterward?
• Are there certain foods I won't be able to eat?
• Will I need Vitamins after my surgery, and if so, what types?
• When can I start exercising after surgery?
• How likely is it that I’ll regain weight after surgery?
• Will I need to have plastic surgery later to remove sagging skin?
• How many weight loss surgeries do you do each year?
• How are your patients doing now?
• How common is it for your patients to have complications? What side effects are most common?
• Will my health insurance cover the surgery? If not, what costs will I have to pay?

[HawkFeather 2]

Thanks for the suggestions!