Introduction
Your consultation with a bariatric surgeon is your opportunity to gather information, evaluate fit and make an informed decision. The right questions help you understand what you are signing up for and whether this surgeon is right for you.
As Op. Dr. Mustafa Erol, with 35+ years of surgical experience and more than 8,000 bariatric operations, I welcome thorough questioning from patients. Good questions point to engaged, prepared patients; these patients usually achieve better outcomes.
Here is your complete guide to consultation questions and what the answers should tell you.
Questions About the Surgeon
Experience and Credentials
1. How many bariatric surgeries have you performed?*Why it matters:* High volume is associated with better outcomes. Look for surgeons with 500+ operations; 1,000+ is preferred.
*Red flag:* Evasive answers or very low numbers.
2. What certifications do you hold?*What to look for:*
*Red flag:* Inability to provide verifiable certifications.
3. What is your area of specialty focus?*Ideal answer:* Bariatric/metabolic surgery should be the primary focus, not one of many procedures performed.
4. What are your complication rates?*Why it matters:* Honest surgeons track and share their outcomes.
*Reasonable rates:*
*Red flag:* Claims of zero complications or refusal to answer.
5. Can I independently verify your credentials?*Good answer:* "Yes, check the SRC directory, here are my hospital affiliations," etc.
*Red flag:* Does not suggest verification or becomes defensive.
Questions About the Procedure
Understanding Your Surgery
6. Which procedure do you recommend for me and why?*Why it matters:* The recommendation should be personalized, not one-size-fits-all.
*What to look for:* The surgeon should explain reasoning based on your health, BMI, goals and lifestyle.
7. Can you explain exactly what happens during the surgery?*Why it matters:* You should understand what is being done to your body.
*Good answer:* Clear and understandable explanation, with visual aids if helpful.
8. How long does the surgery take?*Typical answer:*
*Answer:* General anaesthesia for all standard bariatric procedures.
10. Will this be performed laparoscopically?*Expected answer:* Yes, nearly all bariatric surgery today is laparoscopic (small incisions, camera-assisted).
Questions About Risks
Understanding Potential Complications
11. What are the main risks of this procedure?*What to expect:* An honest discussion of:
*Red flag:* Minimizing or dismissing risks.
12. What is the mortality rate for this procedure?*Honest answer:* 0.1-0.5% for primary bariatric surgery at experienced centres.
13. What happens if a complication occurs during or after surgery?*Good answer:* Explains complication management, ICU access and reoperation protocols if needed.
14. Are there specific risks related to my situation?*Why it matters:* Your individual risk factors (medical conditions, medications, etc.) should be considered.
Questions About Preparation
Pre-Op Requirements
15. Which pre-op tests will I need?*Typical requirements:*
*Typical answer:* Liver-shrinking diet 1-4 weeks before surgery, transitioning to liquids in the final days.
17. Which medications should I stop before surgery?*Why it matters:* Blood thinners, pain relievers and some other medications need to be stopped.
18. Do you require me to lose weight before surgery?*Varies:* Some surgeons require pre-op weight loss, others do not. Both approaches are valid.
Questions About Hospital and Logistics
Practical Details
19. At which hospital will the surgery be performed?*Follow-up:* Is it accredited? What are its credentials?
20. How long will I stay in hospital?*Typical answers:*
*Varies by package:* Some packages include a private room; others use semi-private.
22. What is included in the package price?*Essential clarity:* Get an itemized list of what is included and any potential additional costs.
Questions About Recovery
What to Expect Afterwards
23. What is the typical recovery like?*An honest answer should include:*
*Should be explained:*
*Expected answer:* Lifelong supplementation including:
*Good answer:* Detailed follow-up schedule including virtual options if you are travelling.
Questions About Results
Setting Expectations
27. What is the typical weight loss for this procedure?*Honest answer:* Gives ranges and explains variability:
*Why it matters:* Provides realistic expectations.
*Good answer:* Discusses ranges and factors affecting success.
29. What is the likelihood of weight regain?*Honest answer:* Acknowledges that some regain is common (10-20%) and discusses prevention methods.
30. Can I see before-and-after photos of your patients?*Good answer:* Yes, with patient consent. A range of outcomes, not just the best cases.
Questions About Aftercare
Long-Term Support
31. How will I contact you after I return to my country?*Why it matters:* Clear communication channels are essential.
*Good answer:* Phone, WhatsApp, email — with reasonable response times.
32. What happens if I have a problem after I leave?*Good answer:* Explains the protocol for managing concerns, coordination with local doctors and emergency procedures.
33. How long do you provide follow-up support?*Ideal:* Lifetime access for questions, along with a defined follow-up programme.
34. Will you coordinate with my local doctor?*Good answer:* Yes, with documentation.
Questions About Costs
Financial Clarity
35. What is the total cost and what does it include?*Why it matters:* No surprises. Get an itemized breakdown.
36. What additional costs might I encounter?*Honest answer:* Discusses potential extras (companion accommodation, extended stay, etc.).
37. Is there a deposit and what is the cancellation policy?*Why it matters:* Understand the financial commitments.
38. Do you offer payment plans or financing?*Varies:* Some do, some do not. Ask if relevant.
Communication Assessment Questions
Evaluating the Relationship
39. Will I communicate directly with you or through a coordinator?*Why it matters:* Understand who your primary contact will be.
40. How quickly do you usually respond to patient questions?*Good answer:* Specific time-frame expectations.
41. May I speak with your past patients?*Good answer:* Yes, willing to connect you with consenting patients.
Red Flags to Watch For
Warning Signs During Consultation
| Red Flag | Concern |
|---|---|
| Rushed consultation | Not enough time for your questions |
| Minimizing concerns | May not take you seriously later |
| Pressure to book immediately | Ethical surgeons do not pressure |
| Vague answers | May be hiding something |
| Cannot provide credentials | Verification matters |
| Guaranteeing outcomes | No surgeon can guarantee results |
| No discussion of complications | Not realistic or not honest |
| Unprofessional communication | Reflects general practice |
Positive Signs to Look For
Signs of a Good Surgeon
| Positive Sign | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Takes time to answer | Respects your concerns |
| Explains clearly | Good communication skills |
| Discusses risks openly | Honest and ethical |
| Provides verifiable credentials | Confident in qualifications |
| Has clear protocols | Organized and professional |
| Offers follow-up support | Long-term commitment |
| Patient references available | Track record of satisfaction |
| Welcomes your questions | Confident and transparent |
Preparing for Consultation
Before the Consultation
- Gather:
- Your medical history
- Your current medications
- Your previous weight loss attempts
- Your goals and concerns
- These questions written down/recorded
- Prepare:
- A quiet space for the video call
- A notebook for notes
- A prioritized list of questions
- Documents to share
During the Consultation
- Take notes
- Ask for clarification if needed
- Observe the communication style
- Evaluate how questions are received
- Trust your instincts
After the Consultation
- Review your notes
- Follow up on unanswered questions
- Verify credentials independently
- Compare if you are talking with multiple surgeons
- Make an informed decision
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it rude to ask so many questions?
Absolutely not. Good surgeons welcome thorough questioning. It shows you are engaged and serious. If a surgeon seems annoyed by questions, that is concerning.
Should I meet with more than one surgeon?
This is entirely acceptable and often a wise approach. Comparing their approaches, communication styles and answers can help you find the right fit. Just be transparent that you are exploring options.
What if I forget to ask something during the consultation?
Follow up afterwards. Quality surgical teams answer additional questions via email or WhatsApp. Do not hesitate.
How do I know if a surgeon is honest?
Look for consistency, willingness to discuss negatives (risks, complications), verifiable credentials and transparent pricing. Overly optimistic or evasive answers should raise concerns.
Which question is the most important?
While all are important, surgeon experience and complication rates directly affect your safety. Understanding the aftercare plan is also critical for long-term success.
Your Questions Are Welcome
I am happy to answer all of these questions and more:
- Phone: +90 532 293 99 39
- Email: info@doktormustafaerol.com
*This content is for educational purposes only.*