Thursday, April 23, 2015

Thinking About Weight-Loss Surgery?

It’s a life-changing decision and not a quick fix. If you are thinking about weight-loss surgery as an option, there are many things to consider. Start by having a talk with your primary care physician. Your doctor is the best place to begin the conversation. Weight-loss surgery is not always the best option, even for those who need to lose a lot of weight.

If you decide to explore weight-loss surgery, do as much research as you can on the programs available. There are several options in central Iowa, including Grinnell Bariatrics – a program between Surgical Associates of Grinnell and Grinnell Regional Medical Center. This program has been a pioneer in bariatric or weight-loss surgery since 1980. Today, this multi-disciplinary program is designed for each individual patient’s unique needs. The team includes nutritionists, mental health professionals, physical therapists, family medicine, exercise specialists, cardiologists, pulmonologists, and care coordination, in addition to surgeons. 

Where to start?

  • 1.     Begin by talking with your primary care physician to see if weight loss surgery is a good option for you.
  • 2.     Gather as much information as you can about programs that are available to you.
  • 3.     Learn about the various kinds of weight-loss surgery.
  • 4.     Research what steps you have to go through before, during, and after the procedure.
  • 5.     Make sure that the programs you are interested in include plenty of support throughout the entire process and for years after your procedure.
  • 6.     Get to know the medical team who will handle your care.
  • 7.     And then make the decision based on what is right for you.



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