Beauty Content // Things to Think about When Choosing a Bariatric Surgeon*

The fact that obesity is a huge problem in this country, and the world as a whole, is no secret. The exact causes of obesity are a topic for hot debate, as are the reasons why people struggle to lose weight naturally. The American College of Surgeons has reported that it is almost impossible for severely obese people to achieve a healthy weight range without any type of surgery. Surgery, therefore, is the key to success for a huge proportion of our fellow countrymen and -women. As a result, people are now recommended to start learning about what this type of surgery is, and how it can help them or their loved ones.

Bariatric Surgery Centers
Because bariatric surgery is now such a popular procedure, many of the bigger hospitals and medical centers have an onsite bariatric surgery center. Other clinics operate independently, such as http://bariatric.stopobesityforlife.com, and use the facilities of their nearest hospital to perform the actual procedure. They will work hand in hand with the centers, however, becoming part of multidisciplinary patient care teams. These teams usually include surgeons, registered dieticians, psychologists, physical therapists, meditation specialists, exercise physiologists, and more. They also usually have staff on board to communicate with the relevant insurance companies, as an increasing number of insurance carriers now covers this procedure. That being said, the procedure will not be carried out until approval from the insurance company has been received. Finally, the centers also offer pre- and post-operative care, to ensure the greatest chance of success.

There are now also some surgical centers that have started up cooperatives, partnering up with others. In so doing, they have been able to more than double their available services, as well as to take on a greater number of patients. Additionally, quite a few of them have entered into contracts with financial institutions, which ensures those who do not have medical insurance, or those who are not covered by their carrier, are still able to have the surgery performed.

How to Choose a Bariatric Surgeon
According to the American College of Surgeons, people should compare their options before agreeing to go under the knife. Specifically, they should make sure that the center they are considering completes a minimum of 125 surgeries each year. They should also have at least two bariatric surgeons as part of their permanent staff, and these surgeons should be American Board of Surgery certified. They should also complete a minimum of 50 bariatric surgeries each year.

When you start to research the centers and surgeons that may be able to help, patients are also recommended to look into universities and research centers. Because bariatric surgery is now so popular, and so important, it is common for university hospitals to have bariatric centers onsite and these tend to be the most cutting edge of all in terms of available techniques.

Last but not least, patients should be able to build a real bond with their surgeon. After all, they will be under their care for a very long time to come.