Sometimes it can be a little challenging when it comes to getting started with bariatric surgery. Wishing, hoping, praying, waiting on insurance approval, phone calls to retrieve old medical records and test results can seem like a never-ending task. But have patience. You are not alone and there’s much you can do in the meantime to kick start your weight loss.
Start by attending your surgeon’s support groups. Getting some of your questions answered prior to surgery, can give you great insight and make your experience just a little smoother. Find some inspirational blogs. There are many people out there who have outstanding and motivating blogs chronicling their weight loss efforts. Or better yet, start your own blog! Online message boards are also extremely helpful and free.
If you find yourself in a stall pattern, waiting for paperwork or other hold ups, consider asking your surgeon what other options are available in the meantime. They may offer medical weight loss programs, work out groups, nutritional counseling, psychological counseling or expert advice on exercise custom tailored to you. Take advantage of everything offered, even before your surgery, and you’ll be that much further when your paperwork comes through.
And last but not least, don’t sweat it. It took careful consideration to make the decision to have weight loss surgery. The excitement is huge and you just want to do it. The simple reality is that paperwork simply takes time. Hang-ups happen. But your surgeon’s office is working hard to get you the surgery you need and a little patience goes a long way.