This Web site is a good place to start. It has been created to give you a thorough understanding of the risks and benefits of this procedure.

Talking to your primary care physician, physician specialist or family physician is a good next step.

Finding a local weight loss surgeon and support group is another good step.

Attend an informational seminar held by Rockwood Bariatric Specialists. These seminars are held once a month in the Providence Auditorium at Sacred Heart Medical Center. They usually last about two hours and cover topics such as insurance pre-authorization, pre-operative and post-operative nutrition, surgical options, and post surgery lifestyle changes. This seminar is mandatory for any person considering weight loss surgery with our program. Please call (509) 838-2531 extension 2660 to sign up for our next available session.

Talking to others who have taken the path you are now considering may help you understand what you need to know to make a decision you can be comfortable with.

In the end, your best source of information is an experienced bariatric surgeon who knows how to handle your special needs before, during and after weight loss surgery.