Introductory Lecture

 

Your Education is Critical



Whether you're just beginning to consider weight loss surgery or a balloon, or you are already scheduled for it with Dr. Ellner or at any other program, it is critical that you have a strong knowledge base going forward. I strongly recommend that you watch the informational lecture for the procedure that you are choosing.

Watch the Balloon Lecture here.

Watch the Weight Loss Surgery Lecture here.

These educational lectures are the most important part of your pre-operative preparation. In these lectures, I present virtually all of the information that you need to make an informed decision about your weight loss options. I discuss the disease of morbid obesity, the impact on your life and health and clarify the risks and benefits of surgery versus other weight loss options like the balloon. I present very detailed descriptions of gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy in the surgical lectures, and the Orbera Balloon in the Belly Balloon lectures, with pictures and videos, and demonstrate just how the options work. I explain the differences between the procedures and compare the success rates and risks of different options, introducing you to patients along the way. Please note that the Lap Band is no longer available. 

I also encourage people to reach out to patients in the patient gallery section of the website.  They are happy to chat and answer questions from folks who are looking into having weight loss procedures themselves, or for their loved ones. It's extremely worthwhile to speak with someone who has had the procedure. If you're interested in having a chat, take a look at the "See the Patients" section. Some of them have provided their email address and would be very happy to hear from you.
 

Friends and Family are Welcomed to Watch the Lectures!

I advise everyone who wants to have surgery or a Belly Balloon to watch the video and encourage friends and family members who are close to you to do the same. It is important for them to understand that genetics, not controllable behavior, plays the largest role in a person becoming obese (or being thin, for that matter). Your friends and family should understand not only what your current health situation is with respect to morbid obesity, but also what to expect should you decide to undergo a procedure, surgical or non-surgical.  

After watching the lecture, the next step is to fill out the health history form and make an appointment for a consultation. Here's how to get started-

 History/Insurance Form. Please recognize that completing this form in no way obligates you to have a procedure. By allowing me and the clinic staff to evaluate your personal health and insurance situation, we can advise you on your specific insurance coverage, out of pocket expense, and inform you of just what tests you will need to have should you opt to move ahead with a procedure. With all of this detailed information in hand, you can make an informed decision and plan accordingly.
 

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