Since you’re visiting this site, we’re assuming you’re one of the 3.4 million Californians interested in weight-loss surgery. Maybe you’ve been overweight since childhood and you suffer from one or more health conditions caused by obesity. Perhaps you’ve suffered a lifetime of indignation and discrimination because of your appearance and you’ve tried multiple diets and exercise programs, all without lasting success. Sound about right? If so, you’ve come to the right place.

If you’re seriously considering weight-loss surgery, you’ve already made an important choice. You’ve made the choice to regain your health, transform your appearance, improve your quality of life and start living the life you’ve always dreamed of. Let us help guide you down the path.

Here are the steps you’ll need to take to begin your journey:

1. Get educated – Learn as much as you can about weight-loss surgery. Find out what options are available, the risks and benefits of surgery, the long-term effects – soak up all the information you can find. This web site is a great place to start. Attending one of our free seminars is another great educational opportunity.

2. Make the decision – Are you a candidate for weight-loss surgery? Is it right for you? Have an in-depth conversation with your doctor to find out. How will you pay for it? Contact your insurance provider or our support staff to learn more.

3. Get approved – Once you have your doctor’s approval, there are a number of pre-surgical requirements you must meet. These include a surgical consultation, nutritional evaluation, psychological evaluation, clearance from your primary care provider and approval from your insurance company. Our staff will be happy to assist you every step of the way.

4. Get ready – Prepare yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally for the life-changing journey on which you are about to embark. Use the months leading up to surgery to lose as much weight as you can. Start an exercise program that you can continue after surgery. Reach out to others you might know who have had the surgery. Attend a peer support group. Keep a diary of your thoughts, feelings, and goals. Get your family and friends involved. The more you are prepared, the more successful you’ll be.