Getting Started
Patients who are referred to the Metabolic and Bariatric Institute will go through an informational seminar to learn more about our program and expectations.
If you decide the program is right for you, we’ll invite you to the clinic to meet with your team to kick off your bariatric surgery preparation, a several months-long process that includes:
Physical Prep
- We will meet with you for a thorough medical evaluation to assess your overall physical health and determine if any special care is needed.
- You'll meet with our dietitian to jump start your weight-loss journey (some level of weight loss pre-procedure is often required by insurance.)
- Your dietitian will teach you how to create sustainable, healthy eating habits. This includes behavioral tips such as eating slower and chewing more, as well as making food and drink choices that include less fat and sugar.
- We require patients to quit using tobacco and drinking caffeine for at least two months before surgery. Both increase the risk of complications during and after surgery.
- You cannot get weight loss surgery if you are pregnant, and you should not become pregnant for 24 months after surgery.
Mental and Emotional Prep
- You will undergo a mental health evaluation with our clinical psychologist to help determine whether you’re ready for the emotional, social and behavioral changes associated with bariatric surgery.
- We work with you to identify any areas where further support is needed.
- Our goal is to set you up for success by making sure you have a good support system in place and are prepared for how your life will change after surgery.
Follow-up Care
- We will prepare you for your return home following your surgery.
- You will work with your dietitian to review your nutrition plan and make sure you’re taking the required vitamin supplements.
- Our psychologist will continue to check in with you to see how you are doing as you undergo the many changes associated with weight loss surgery.
- You will have follow-up visits with our surgeon and physician assistant to assess your post-surgery recovery and progress toward your health goals.
- Remember, we are here to support you.
