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Process Overview

The team at UPMC Hamot Bariatric Surgery and Weight Management Center will be there to guide you the whole way through the surgery process, from initial consultation through support groups after surgery is completed. Here are the five steps of the process:

Step 1: Watch our new patient seminar on our private Facebook group. The seminar is led by key team members who will discuss surgical weight loss options, risks and benefits of surgery, and who qualifies for surgery. To request an invitation to the Facebook group and attend the next seminar, please call 814-877-6953.

Step 2: Call our office at 814-877-6953 to schedule your initial consultation with one of the bariatric surgeons. At this appointment you will receive a pre-surgical education folder and orders for:

  • Blood work.
  • A chest x-ray.
  • An EKG.
  • An endoscopy.

The surgeon will discuss the surgical options available and what may be the best option for you. You will also be given information about watching your first nutrition class on Facebook.

Step 3: Attend at least three bariatric support groups. This can be done at any time throughout the process. More information about our support groups can be found here.

Step 4: Call 814-877-6997 to schedule a surgical clearance visit at UPMC Hamot Bariatric Surgery and Weight Management Center. At this point, you will have a complete work up done, including:

  • Pre-operative testing.
  • A psychological evaluation.
  • A nutrition evaluation.
  • Monthly diet documentation.

Step 5: Upon receiving notification of insurance approval, a surgery date and final office visit date (to sign consent forms) will be scheduled by the bariatric surgery scheduler.