Our approach

This 1½-hour session is led by a registered bariatric surgery nurse clinician. You will learn about our surgical options, including our latest, outpatient adjustable band. You can ask questions and talk to our professionals and others who are considering surgery. Friends or family members are welcome to attend with you. View session schedule.

You will receive a packet of forms at the information session. Fill out these forms and mail them in the envelope provided. After reviewing your forms, we will call to discuss obesity intervention options or schedule a consultation.

During this one-hour session, the nurse will review your completed assessment forms. The nurse will discuss obesity surgery, your past medical and obesity history and education. We will focus on learning gaps identified in the self-test included with the pre-assessment forms. Most of our nurses are also bariatric surgery patients, so they can relate to many of your thoughts, experiences and emotions. You will take two psychological tests. Our psychologist will discuss the results with you at a later appointment.

The nurse will help you schedule your next steps with Park Nicollet experts, experienced in caring for and treating patients undergoing weight-loss surgery. All appointments will be at Park Nicollet Clinic—Meadowbrook in St. Louis Park and all your information will be available to clinicians via our secured electronic medical record. You will not need to resubmit information or visit multiple locations.

During this one-hour appointment, the bariatrician will further review your medical history and answer any questions you have. The bariatrician also can work with your primary care doctor to resolve any issues as you prepare for surgery.

During this one-hour appointment, the dietitian will help you meet any preoperative weight management insurance requirements you might have. The dietitian also will assess your eating habits and work with you on behavioral changes in preparation for surgery.

During this one-hour appointment, the therapist will evaluate any barriers to physical activity you may have related to your weight, and help you develop an activity plan.

During this one-hour appointment, the psychologist uses information from your psychological testing to help you understand the impact of surgery and necessary preparations.

Our insurance experts will help you complete the necessary steps to obtain prior authorization. They can help you navigate this often complex process. If you have limited insurance coverage, we offer self-pay options and financing.

Once prior authorization is obtained, you will meet with your surgeon to discuss which surgery option is best for you. If the surgeon agrees you are well-prepared for a positive, postsurgical outcome, you will be scheduled for surgery.

Your team will be with you throughout your surgical experience, and will keep you, your friends and family informed of your status.

We have one of the best comprehensive after-surgery follow-up programs in the area.

• After gastric bypass surgery, you will have follow-up visits with a bariatric surgery nurse clinician a minimum of six times during the first year, then at 18 months, 24 months and annually for life.
• After adjustable gastric band surgery, you will have follow-up visits with the physician assistant monthly to evaluate your need for a band adjustment.
• Laboratory tests are evaluated at six months, 12 months, 18 months, 24 months, then annually for life (or as necessary).
• You will see a dietitian for ongoing postoperative diet and nutrition education and support four times in the first postoperative year, then as needed. We will give you easy-to-use shopping guides to help you make the right food and nutrition choices.
• Our psychologists and physical therapists are available for ongoing consultations throughout the entire process and postoperative period.
• You are welcome to participate in a variety of support and education groups offered twice a month.