Patient Resources
Step One: Contact the Staff for More Information
To begin your journey towards a healthier lifestyle, contact the office and a knowledgeable bariatric team member will help you get started and answer your questions.
Request An Appointment
Call: (850) 626-5121
Step Two: Complete Initial Paperwork and View an Online Seminar
If you decide to move forward with our bariatric program, the team will send you more information about the required health documents and records needed, as well as a link to an online seminar. The online seminar will help you understand what to expect at every point in the weight-loss surgery process. You will learn about procedure options, typical results and lifestyle changes to help ensure lasting weight loss.
Once you submit all paperwork and view the seminar, we will contact you to schedule an initial appointment with the surgeon.
Watch the Seminar
Step Three: Follow a Pre-Surgical Plan
If surgery is indicated, a pre-surgical plan will be developed especially for you. Implementing the pre-surgical plan may take several months, especially if you're using an insurance coverage option that requires the completion of certain steps prior to surgery. We can assist you with collecting information needed to verify completion of each step in this process.
Step Four: Education
Education is an important part of preparing for weight loss surgery. Our educational program provides classes on nutrition and exercise, recommendations for preparing for surgery and post-operative resources for continued support. We are committed to providing you with the tools and information you need to make and maintain profound changes for lifelong health. The hands-on team is dedicated to encourage and empower you throughout every step of your journey.
Step Five: Surgery
The length of your hospital stay and recovery time needed will depend on the procedure performed. Surgery usually takes about two hours for the average patient, but some procedures may take longer. For most people, the average post-surgical hospital stay is two days. Most patients can go back to work within two weeks of surgery, but your specific recovery time length will be determined by your surgeon. In some cases, additional restrictions may apply.
Step Six: Follow-Up Care
In the early days after surgery, the team will work closely with you and your primary care physician to help keep your physical recovery on track. In addition, you will have frequent visits with a registered dietitian and an exercise physiologist to help you safely manage your weight loss. Our support groups offer ongoing encouragement and education from other bariatric surgery patients as well as professional staff.