If you’ve struggled with your weight for years, you may feel hopeful and nervous about taking the next step. You might wonder whether surgery is right for you, what the process involves, or how your life could change afterward. At NJ Advanced Surgical Solutions, Dr. Val Prokurat, our board-certified bariatric and general surgeon, meets with you personally to evaluate your health, discuss your goals, and help you understand your options.
Below, we describe what you can expect at your first weight loss surgery consultation.
Review your medical history and weight journey
Your consultation begins with a comprehensive review of your medical history. You’ll discuss current and past health conditions, medications, prior surgeries, and any obesity-related issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, or joint pain.
Dr. Prokurat will also ask about your weight history. You may talk about previous diet attempts, exercise programs, medically supervised plans, or other methods you’ve tried. This is about understanding your unique challenges and identifying patterns that may influence your care plan. By the end of this, your surgeon will have a clearer picture of your overall health and whether weight loss surgery may be a safe and appropriate option for you.
Evaluate your candidacy for surgery
Next, your body mass index (BMI) and related health conditions are assessed to determine whether you meet established guidelines for bariatric surgery. In general, candidates may qualify based on BMI thresholds or the presence of obesity-related medical conditions.
Beyond numbers, Dr. Prokurat will evaluate your readiness for change. Weight loss surgery is a powerful tool, but it requires long-term lifestyle adjustments. You must discuss your motivation, support system, and commitment to follow-up care. This step ensures that, if surgery is recommended, it aligns with both your medical needs and your personal goals.
Discuss your surgical options
If you are a potential candidate, you’ll review the procedures available at NJ Advanced Surgical Solutions. Common bariatric surgery options may include a gastric sleeve or a gastric bypass, each with different mechanisms, benefits, and considerations.
You’ll learn:
- How each procedure works
- Expected weight loss outcomes
- Potential risks and complications
- Recovery timelines
- Long-term dietary changes
Dr. Prokurat will explain these bariatric surgery options in clear, straightforward language so you can understand how each approach may impact your body and lifestyle. This is your opportunity to ask detailed questions and compare procedures thoughtfully.
Meet the support team and review the care pathway
Weight loss surgery is not a single event: it’s a structured journey. During your consultation, you’ll learn about the broader care team that supports you before and after surgery.
This may include nutritional counseling, psychological evaluation (if required), and preoperative medical testing. You’ll also review the steps required by insurance providers, if applicable. Understanding the timeline helps you prepare mentally and logistically.
Understand risks, benefits, and expectations
An essential part of your consultation is a discussion about risks and benefits. While bariatric surgery has helped many patients improve their health and life, it is still a major surgery.
You must review possible complications, recovery expectations, dietary restrictions, and the importance of lifelong follow-up. Dr. Prokurat emphasizes realistic expectations: surgery is most effective when paired with healthy habits and consistent medical monitoring. This conversation helps ensure you make an informed decision based on facts rather than assumptions.
Develop a personalized next-step plan
At the end of your appointment, you’ll leave with a clear understanding of your next steps. That might mean scheduling tests, beginning counseling, or starting the insurance approval process. If you decide not to move forward immediately, that’s okay. Your consultation is an opportunity to gather information and carefully consider your options.
Dr. Prokurat, our board-certified bariatric surgeon at NJ Advanced Surgical Solutions, is committed to helping you make the best decision for your health. If you’re considering weight loss surgery, please schedule your consultation to explore your candidacy and options.
