Expectations Before and After Surgery

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Now that you have decided to proceed with surgery, there are certain steps to take before your operation to ensure that you are in the best possible readiness for the procedure. 


What to expect before surgery | what to expect after surgery:




What to expect before surgery:



What do I do after the Educational Seminar?

After attending one of our Educational Seminars, we ask patients to complete the EMMI web-based education if they have not already done so, and complete the written exam.  EMMI is an interactive patient education series that helps manage the expections of people who are considering surgery.  EMMI will talk you through the entire surgical experience from pre-op to post-op, including risks and alternatives. 

Forms

We have our forms available for you to download. This is for your convenience and may help to eliminate any waiting time you have at your first visit.


The following forms may be downloaded and must be completed by the visit with your surgeon:

Tests

Further individualized information will be provided at the time of your consultation.  Your surgeon may request additional diagnostic tests and procedures at that time such as:


  • EKG
  • Lab tests
  • X-rays
  • Upper GI series
  • EGD or esophagogastroduodenoscopy
  • Cardiac Evaluation
  • Pulmonary Consultation
  • Sleep Study
  • Gall Bladder Ultrasound
  • Psychological Consultation
  • Nutritional Consultation

If you have had any of these tests within the last six months please bring copies of the results with you to your appointment. 


When will I be scheduled for surgery?

  • Once you have completed the consultations and testing, a request for surgical approval will be made with your insurance company. 
  • Once documented authorization has been received and your surgeon has accepted you as a surgical candidate, a surgery date will be assigned.
  • PLEASE allow adequate time for surgery scheduling. 


What to expect after surgery:

Follow up Care

Initially, post-operative follow-up visits with your surgeon will be more frequent.  We strongly encourage you to keep every post-operative visit including any laboratory or radiology studies that have been ordered.  Follow-up visits and tests assist in the ultimate success of your surgery. 



Appointments are typically:


  • Immediate post-op visit as ordered by your surgeon, usually 2 weeks
  • 6 weeks after surgery
  • 3 months after surgery
  • 6 months after surgery
  • 12 months after surgery (including routine lab studies)
  • 18 months
  • 24 months
  • Annually forever
  • If you live out of town whenever possible, /liing any laboratory, radiology or any other test results to the follow-up clinic appointments.

What is involved with the follow-up appointments?


  • Review lab results
  • Review social and emotional changes
  • Review medications and co-morbidities
  • Evaluate your progress and weight loss
  • Review exercise program
  • Review nutritional requirements
  • Provide encouragement
  • Refer to other health care professionals, if necessary

Lab Requirements:

Prescriptions for labs will be provided. Depending on your particular insurance, you may either take our request directly to the lab draw station, or request an order from your Primary Care Physician. 


Labs are checked at 3 and 12 months and as necessary thereafter.


These labs values help with your medical evaluation. Often, they are a wonderful reflection your improving health.


Support Groups:

Support Groups are assembled to assist patients with any problems or challanges that may occur as their life and health changes.  Support Groups offer educational tools and emotional support in a safe setting.  Click here to see our support group schedule.