Presurgical Evaluations for
Gastric Bypass Surgery

The decision to undergo weight loss surgery is a difficult one, involving many important considerations for yourself and your family. Health psychologists can assist in this process by providing a Presurgical Psychological Evaluation (PPE).

• PPE is a routine procedure for many surgical candidates.

• PPE provides an opportunity for you to discuss any concerns you may have about your surgery.

• PPE assists your surgeon in developing the most effective treatment plan for you.

• PPE can provide a great deal of practical support for the lifestyle changes that you will be going through.

What to expect:
Typically, the Presurgical Psychological Evaluation involves:

• Interview
Your doctor will discuss your previous weight loss attempts, current eating habits, current lifestyle habits (sleep, recreation, social habits, etc.), current emotional status and any history of mood symptoms.
• Review of medical history
Your doctor will discuss your medical history with you directly and will also order a review of health history from your primary care doctor.
• Paper-and-pencil psychological surveys
Psychological surveys have been used in the healthcare industry for over 100 years. They are an easy and effective way of gathering information that might otherwise take several sessions of direct questioning. Psychological surveys typically include questions about your emotional sensations, physical sensations, current health status and social relationships.

Depending on the circumstances, the health psychologist may complete the entire evaluation in one visit or may wish to conduct it over two or more sessions. Some insurance companies have specific provisions for presurgical psychological evaluations. You may wish to contact your insurance carrier prior to your evaluation.