Bariatric Pre-operative Evaluations
Pre-bariatric surgery psychological evaluations are usually required by your surgeon and your insurance company. Most surgeons recognize that weight loss surgery is not only a medical issue, but also a life-changing event. Your surgeon wants to make sure that you are emotionally ready for the surgery and that you understand the surgery risks and outcomes and have the support needed to make lifestyle and behavioral changes after surgery.
Reasons for pre-surgical evaluations
There are actually two reasons for the evaluation. The first is that it is a requirement based on guidelines established by the National Institute of Health for all patients before bariatric surgery can be offered. The second reason is that surgeons as well as the insurance companies also require it to ensure your health and safety. Weight Loss Surgery is a life altering procedure. As with any major surgery, weight loss surgery can have complications including death. For these reasons, the decision to go forward with surgery should not be taken lightly. An evaluation ensures that you are:
1.Able to make such a decision
2.Understand the consequences of your decision
3.Have no underlying psychological conditions that would prohibit you from adhering to the life changes that are required following surgery.
Pre-Surgical Psychological Evaluation
Bariatric surgery has the potential to change your life. A good understanding of the surgical procedure, the outcomes, and the required lifestyle changes can really make a difference in your success. We offer a thorough pre-surgical evaluation designed to help you fully understand bariatric surgery and identify potential challenges and solutions. Most patients remark that they find the evaluation to be very helpful, both before and after surgery.
Undergoing bariatric surgery can be a challenging undertaking, but it can also have an incredibly positive effect on your well-being. Health benefits such as substantial weight loss, reduced risk of Diabetes, improved blood-pressure, and back pain relief are but a few potential benefits you could experience after undergoing surgery.
For more information or an appointment call 443-590-0030.
Dawn A. OMeally, LCSW-C, P.A. and Associates The Counseling Center for Change Bariatric Psychological Evaluations and Therapy