Why Bariatric Surgery Might Involve Delays
The Nicholson Clinic for Weight Loss Surgery’s founder talks about waiting periods for surgery.
Plano, TX, Nov. 10, 2016 – People who are considered severely obese may find their doctors strongly urging them to consider bariatric surgery to bring weight under control. Just because the recommendation is made, however, doesn’t mean surgery will take place right away.
“Patients are likely to discover a waiting period of three to six months in front of them once they begin exploring weight loss surgery in earnest,” says Dr. Nick Nicholson, founder and lead surgeon at the Nicholson Clinic for Weight Loss Surgery. “This can be frustrating for patients and healthcare providers alike, but there are some good reasons to not rush directly into weight loss surgery.”
Weight loss surgery calls for a lifelong commitment. Procedures such as the sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass, in fact, involve the permanent alteration of the body. Since these procedures demand patients make serious lifestyle adjustments once they are completed, one of the reasons behind the waiting period is to make certain patients are ready for the commitment required.
“Bariatric surgery can dramatically improve the lives and health of people who suffer from severe obesity,” says Dr. Nicholson. “To enjoy the best outcome, however, people need to be prepared for what to expect not only from the procedure selected, but also life after surgery.”
Bariatric surgeons typically help patients prepare during the waiting period. Counseling related to nutrition, exercise and any other necessary lifestyle changes, for example, will likely be required. In addition, patients will generally need to gain clearance from their insurance carrier before a procedure will be scheduled. The final step prior to surgery typically involves routine testing.
The Nicholson Clinic specializes in surgical weight loss while providing other support to ensure patients attain and maintain their weight loss goals. To learn more about the Nicholson Clinic, its locations and the weight loss services it provides, visit it online at www.nicholsonclinic.com.
About Nicholson Clinic
Founded by Dr. Nick Nicholson, one of the country’s leading weight loss surgeons and co-author of “Weight Loss Surgery: The Real Skinny,” the Nicholson Clinic for Weight Loss Surgery offers a variety of options to help patients gain control of their weight and their lives.
