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Step One: Attend a Free Weight Loss Seminar

The caring bariatric team at Commonwealth Health Wilkes-Barre General Hospital Wilkes-Barre General Hospital offers virtual and online seminars to help you understand what to expect during each step in the weight-loss surgery process. During these seminars, you can learn more about procedure options, typical results and the lifestyle changes that will help ensure lasting weight loss.

Step Two: Request a Consultation Appointment

The next step in the process is a consultation with a surgeon. This is where you and your doctor will evaluate your condition, identify options and set next steps.

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. Our 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.

• Most major insurances are accepted, including Geisinger Health Plan (GHP)

Step Six: Follow-Up Care

In the early days after surgery, our 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 our 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.