Bariatric surgery, which is a technical term for the different types of weight loss surgeries, is performed by a bariatric surgeon. What makes a surgeon qualified to perform these procedures? Continue reading to learn more.
What Makes A Doctor Qualified To Perform Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgeons specialize in advanced, minimally invasive bariatric procedures and have in-depth training with laparoscopic equipment. Bariatric surgeons often begin as general surgeons; and some continue to offer general abdominal surgery procedures such as gallbladder removal, hiatal hernia repair, and abdominal wall hernia repair. After finishing medical school, doctors spend a minimum of three years in residency obtaining experience in surgery.
Physicians spend sufficient time training with established surgeons and engage in a bariatric surgery fellowship to become bariatric surgeons. Through the American Board of Obesity, they can become board certified.Ideally, the best bariatric surgeons are board certified in General Surgery by the American Board of Surgery, a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS), and a member of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) and the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES).
More Details About Bariatric Surgery
The primary reason for bariatric surgery is to reduce the size of the stomach, limiting a person’s capacity for food intake. This surgery is introduced when other options to lose weight have been explored with no success. There are different types of bariatric surgery performed by trained and experienced bariatric surgeons. The three most common procedures are:
- Gastric Sleeve Procedure
- Gastric Bypass Surgery
- Lap-band Surgery
Your doctor will discuss which procedure would be the most effective for you based on your health and goals.All these must be performed by trained bariatric surgeons with years of quality experience.
Final Thoughts
Are you ready to have bariatric surgery? Finding a credentialed surgeon with years of experience is key as it ensures the highest standards, best outcomes and lowest complication rates. Keep in mind that credentials speak to the quality of both the surgeon and the hospital at which you will have your surgery. Find out if your surgeon is qualified by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP). Insurance companies, such as Blue Cross Blue Shield may also award distinctions to the best hospitals in their network.
Nicholson Clinic for Weight Loss Surgery 