Evaluation Process

To be considered for bariatric surgery, you must weigh less than 450 pounds because our hospital X-ray equipment can't accommodate patients who weigh more. A nutritionist is available to help you lose weight to meet this requirement, if necessary.

You also must complete medical evaluations, and attend an orientation meeting and initial consultation with a surgeon. You should coordinate most of your medical evaluations with your primary care doctor. A psychological evaluation with a certified mental health professional as well documentation of a consultation with a dietitian also are required.

The evaluation process consists of the following steps:

Step 1 — Mail the following four items in one envelope to the Bariatric Surgery Center:

• Completed new patient medical history questionnaire.
• Formal letter from your primary care doctor, including a three-to-five-year summary of diet and weight history; a list of "comorbid" conditions or other conditions you have in addition to obesity; and why you are being recommended for bariatric surgery.
• Current authorization for an initial surgical consultation.
• Photocopy of the front and back of your insurance card.

If the packet of information is not complete, it will be mailed back to you.

Step 2 — After we review your information packet, we will contact you to schedule your first visit with a surgeon and a new patient orientation to meet our team.

Step 3 — During your first visit with a surgeon, you will receive a list of required tests and consultations. Please work with your primary care doctor to complete these tests. Provide all written reports and letters regarding test results.

Step 4 — When you complete all required tests and evaluations, please mail all reports to the Bariatric Surgery Center in one envelope.

Step 5 — We will review all test results and will call you to arrange another consult with your surgeon, unless results indicate the surgery should not be performed. If there are "contraindications" or risks, we will call you to discuss.

Step 6 — During your visit with your surgeon, we will develop a plan for your operation. Typically within a week of this visit, we will schedule a date for your operation.

Step 7 — After your operation is scheduled, an appointment at the Prepare Clinic, the anesthesia and surgical evaluation program, will be scheduled. Anesthesiologists will develop a plan for the day of your operation.

During your consultation with your surgeon, you will have plenty of time to ask questions about your procedure. We want you to feel comfortable about your operation.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated February 2, 2012

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or health care provider. We encourage you to discuss with your doctor any questions or concerns you may have.