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12th Aug 2024
Bariatric surgery is becoming an increasingly popular method to combat obesity and related diseases. However, it is a serious medical procedure that requires careful preparation and consultation with several specialists. In this article, we will look at which doctors you should consult before bariatric surgery and why it is important.
The first and perhaps most important doctor you see is your primary care physician. This specialist will coordinate your path to surgery, refer you to other necessary doctors, and assess your overall health. The primary care physician will also be able to perform initial lab and other diagnostic tests to ensure your body is ready for the upcoming procedure. General health assessment and referral to specialists are the main tasks of the primary care physician.
Good nutrition plays a key role in preparing for and recovering from bariatric surgery. A nutritionist will help you adjust your diet and prepare your body for surgery. This specialist will also develop a post-operative nutrition plan to ensure successful weight loss and health maintenance. Assessing your current diet, developing a pre- and post-surgery meal plan, and providing advice on supplements and vitamins are all part of the nutritionist's role.
Mental preparation is no less important than physical preparation. A psychologist or psychiatrist can help you deal with the emotional aspects of surgery, manage anxiety and stress, and prepare you for lifestyle changes after surgery. Sometimes, during the evaluation process, psychological issues may be identified that require treatment before surgery. A psychologist or psychiatrist's main tasks are assessing mental health, preparing for emotional changes after surgery, and supporting adaptation to a new lifestyle.
Obesity is often accompanied by diseases of the cardiovascular system. A cardiologist will evaluate the condition of your heart and blood vessels and perform necessary tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) and echocardiogram to ensure that your heart can handle stress during and after surgery. Assessing the state of the cardiovascular system, conducting the necessary tests, and providing advice on reducing the risk of complications are the key tasks of a cardiologist.
Respiratory problems are also common among obese people. A pulmonologist will test how your lungs and airways are functioning, especially if you have sleep apnea or other breathing problems. This is important to ensure safety during anesthesia and surgery. A pulmonologist's main tasks are assessing the function of the respiratory system, diagnosing and treating sleep apnea, and preparing for anesthesia.
Before bariatric surgery, it is important to make sure that there are no serious gastrointestinal diseases. A gastroenterologist will perform the necessary tests, such as an endoscopy, to detect possible problems that may affect the choice of surgery method and its outcome. Assessing the condition of the gastrointestinal tract, conducting endoscopy and other tests, and making recommendations for the treatment of identified diseases are the tasks of a gastroenterologist.
An endocrinologist will help identify and manage endocrine disorders such as diabetes or thyroid disease that may affect the success of bariatric surgery and subsequent weight loss. Control of hormone levels and metabolic processes is important for a successful outcome. Assessing the endocrine system, controlling and treating diabetes, and regulating hormonal levels are the main tasks of an endocrinologist.
The anesthesiologist plays a key role in preparing for surgery. This specialist will assess your general health, taking into account information from other doctors to create a safe anesthesia plan. The anesthesiologist will also interview you to determine any allergies or previous reactions to anesthesia. The anesthesiologist provides the necessary preparation for possible allergic reactions and other unforeseen situations during surgery.
And finally, the bariatric surgeon will perform the procedure. This specialist will determine which type of bariatric surgery is right for you, explain the procedure and possible risks, and prepare you for the postoperative period. It is important that the surgeon answers all questions and dispels any doubts that the patient may have before the operation.
Preparing for bariatric surgery requires a comprehensive approach and the participation of many specialists. Every medical examination and consultation is important to minimize risks and guarantee a smooth surgery. Remember that your health and safety are a top priority, so follow your doctor's recommendations and don't neglect the preparatory steps.
