Question:
I Just found out That I have been approved for surgery but I have a lot of questions.

My Insurance company called me yesterday morning to tell me I was approved for surgery Lap gastric bypass. I am soooooo excited but I don't have a surgery date. I have finished all of my pre-op testing except I was told in a letter from the Dr. office I need to consult a Nutritionist. This was real new to me because the Dr's office were I will have my surgery gave me a list of all the things I had to do before surgery and I completed everything but on a letter they sent me had this new information on it. I asked my insurance provider was this necessary but she said it was not required that I was already approved. I am open for all comments PLEASE!!! Tammy    — Tammy W. (posted on August 13, 2003)

August 12, 2003
Your ins carrier may not need it but I'm sure your surgeon wants to make sure you know how and what to eat after surgery.My meeting lasted an hour,she just went over what I already knew and gave me some samples and that was it!
   — Gussie

August 13, 2003
What bad would it do to go? Don't consider it a burden, consider it a bonus!
   — Jonathan S.

August 13, 2003
Hi, Tammy: I highly recommend going to the nutritionist. He/she will be able to tell you what foods to eat, avoid, and why, and will be able to answer many questions you may have. He/she should also be able to give you a list of what foods you will be able to eat at certain stages. Good luck!
   — Moysa B.

August 13, 2003
I'M 15 DAYS POST OP. BEFORE THAT MY DOC CHANGE THE PRE OP REQUIRMENTS A FEW TIMES AND IS STILL CHANGEING THEM NOW. ALL IS FOR YOUR OUN GOOD. THE MORE YOU LEARN, THE BETTER OFF YOU ARE. IT'S ALL GOOD----FOR YOU!
   — joe R.

August 13, 2003
Definitely see the nutritionist - it makes a huge difference in your success postop. The doctor thinks this is necessary for your wellbeing, not for the insurance company to be happy. I am grateful for my nutritionist, and she is available any time I have a question too!
   — bethybb

August 13, 2003
Seeing a registered dietitian is an excellent idea. S/he will advise you about food and vitamins, what are good choices for you, how to get your protein and water in, how much and how often you should be eating, and all sorts of other really helpful information. This will help you to be successful in both the short term and the long term. I think it's a very important part of the process.
   — Vespa R.

August 13, 2003
Everybody's answers are right on target. In fact, one reason I changed surgeons was because the first one I saw had no program pre- or post-op for nutrition or anything else. It was sort of "do your own thing". I feel that if I am having a life-changing surgery that could cause death or major complications, I want the best care and support I can get. My surgeon requires a psych eval, a visit to the nutritionist, and a trip to the physical therapist. I feel that I am getting a caring surgeon who wants me to be as successful as possible. It doesn't hurt that he, too, has had RNY. Right now, I am anxiously awaiting the last week of August when I have all those appointments and can get going!! Good luck.
   — Susan R.

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