How to Begin
Deciding to have weight-loss surgery will change your life in a positive and healthy way. The decision of where to have your surgery is critically important and will affect your weight loss success and overall bariatric surgery experience. You can rest assured that KC Bariatric surgeons have performed the largest number of bariatric procedures in the Midwest region and are therefore the most experienced and skilled at doing them. Our program partner, The Bariatric Center of Kansas City, is an accredited Comprehensive Bariatric Center. This designation acknowledges the superior surgical and medical care made available to our patients, including complication rates far below the national average.
Pathway to surgery
1. Complete the Patient Registration form.
2. We’ll verify your insurance benefits. If bariatric coverage isn’t available, we’ll call to discuss Private Pay options.
3. A case manager will be assigned to you and will schedule your consultation with a surgeon.
4. Meet with Dr. Hoehn, Dr. Hamilton, Dr. Aragon, or Dr. Forrest, along with one of our dietitians, psychologists, and physical therapists for your initial consultation. You’ll also connect with your Case Manager, who will guide you through the process.
5. Complete any required diagnostic tests (e.g., endoscopy, blood work, cardiac or pulmonary clearance).
6. Watch our online preoperative education class to learn what to expect before, during, and after surgery.
7. Prepare for surgery with a high-protein, liquid-only diet as advised by our dietitians to improve surgical safety.
Timeframe for surgery
The Pathway to Surgery typically takes two or more months, depending on your insurance requirements. Our experienced team guides over 1,500 patients each year through this process, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey to surgery.
Fast-track pathway
If you are a Private-Pay patient without bariatric insurance benefits, contact us to discuss our “Fast-Track Pathway” and see how you may be able to schedule your surgery within 30 days of your initial surgical consultation!
Prepare for Changes
Try to discuss your decision with your loved ones. Confirm that the people close to you know that you are serious about your decision to undergo weight loss surgery and that you need their support. The decision to have weight loss surgery can be an exciting one, but it is crucial to ensure that you are prepared to make the changes to your lifestyle that the surgery requires. Doing research and being as fully informed as possible when you begin the decision-making and approval processes can make your surgery date arrive much more quickly than if you are unprepared.
Careful Consideration
If it is difficult to find supportive people in your life, it may help to speak with a therapist. They can help you with problem-solving strategies, including dealing with interpersonal problems. During the approval process for surgery, you will have an evaluation of your mental health. Having a relationship with a therapist before you begin the approval process for surgery can be advantageous. We are connected to support groups for people who have had weight loss surgery. These groups can also help you determine if weight loss surgery is the right decision for you and may help develop a plan to discuss your decision with your family and friends.
