Psychological Evaluation

When you are preparing for weight loss surgery, the process of getting ready can be daunting and long. As providers, we are here for you each step of the way. Our specialized weight loss center focuses on each individual. There is nothing routine about each patient. Our individualized care revolves around your well-being and journey to a new healthier and happier YOU.

During this process multiple steps are required. A psychological evaluation is prudent and necessary to ensure your well-being. It may seem tedious and inconvenient, but it is an important step. This multi-discipline approach allows us to discuss your care with another healthcare provider to identify any critical issues that may pose a problem for surgery. It also allows us, as bariatric surgeons, to help understand your motivation and readiness for a significant lifestyle change. Additionally, during this evaluation certain emotional factors and behavioral challenges can be addressed, modified and monitored that may impact your adjustment after surgery.

Your evaluation with a psychologist or psychiatrist who is specialized in bariatric patients will, like all your medical records, be confidential. Rest assured, having a mental health condition does not automatically exclude you from weight loss surgery. If it under control and stable you are likely a great candidate for surgery.  Your mental and emotional health plays a tremendous role in your overall well-being. It is cornerstone to your weight-loss goals and success.

You may be tested for hard drug and alcohol use. These are signs of addiction problems which need to be addressed prior surgery. Such uses can have a negative impact on your recovery and well-being.

Your mental health provider will discuss how well you understand surgery and the changes required before and after. This will help gauge your understanding that your new healthier and happier life will be different after weight loss surgery.

During your consultation you will be asked about your eating habits, prior dieting attempts, and exercise. This will allow your health care providers understand weight loss strategies have been tried, but these attempts have not provided long-term lasting results. As such, your health and quality of life have been affected negatively and will likely worsen over time.

Remember, a psychological evaluation is not intended to deny you surgery. This is another tool to help your bariatric team understand you better to help you succeed.

We have a psychologist as a member of our comprehensive team. However, your insurance will dictate who you can see under your policy. Our staff is always happy to assist you in finding a mental health professional who can work with you. Please call our office today and see how we can help. Call 424-309-1366