Losing weight isn’t easy for anyone, and there is absolutely no shame in deciding you need help — and you’re not alone.
The U.S. adult obesity rate stands at 42.4 percent, the first time the national rate has passed the 40 percent mark, and 72 percent of men and 63 percent of women are overweight or obese.
However, finding help isn’t always as easy as just making one phone call. Between fad diets, “health” influencers trying to sell unproven supplements, commercial plans, and other types of get-thin-quick schemes — some that even appear legit because doctors are associated with them — it’s hard to know where you should even start.
Most likely, you’ve already tried myriad ways to shed the weight with little to no success, which is why you’re now looking to find a weight loss doctor. While there’s a sense of relief in making the decision to enlist in professional help, there’s also probably a bit of anxiety — especially if you’re considering bariatric weight loss surgery.
But keep in mind that there are medical professionals that can help to guide you through the process of weight loss with medical treatments and other resources that you may not even know were available — or how to access them — on your own.
What Is a Weight Loss Doctor?
If you’re considering bariatric weight loss surgery, you’re going to need a reputable weight loss doctor or bariatric surgery. What makes these weight loss doctors different from other physicians is that they have received specialized training in the field of bariatric medicine or medical weight management. They don’t only focus on surgery, but yet many of them use a combination of diet, nutrition, exercise, behavioral therapy, and medication.
So where do you find one?
When it comes to finding a weight loss doctor, the MyBigLife doctor directory is a great place to start, as there are more than 10,000 profiles representing all types of weight loss doctors, professionals, and programs.
You can also search for an obesity expert by using the online database at the Obesity Medicine Association, where you can find health care providers that are specially trained to manage obesity. If you are specifically looking for a bariatric surgeon for weight loss surgery, there’s the option to find a qualified bariatric surgeon through the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS).
Regardless of what route you go in searching for a weight loss doctor or surgeon, the guidelines for working successfully with your doctor are the same. It’s important that you’re always completely honest about your lifestyle and your expectations so they have accurate information and can tailor your plan accordingly. And don’t be afraid to ask questions so you fully understand the instructions and recommendations the doctor provides.
The additional tips below will help you find a weight loss doctor or surgeon you can trust and that can help you make a life-changing decision to get healthy.
Get Referrals
First, talk with your primary care doctor or other specialist and ask for a referral list of weight loss doctors and surgeons in your area. They most often already have relationships with these individuals and can help you make the connection. Let your doctor serve as your guide. Additional helpful resources are to talk with family and friends for recommendations, as you already trust their judgment in most cases, so their experiences can help you narrow down your decision.
