For individuals struggling with morbid obesity, surgical weight loss procedures can offer a transformative path toward improved health. Foothills Weight Loss Surgeons, a part of Premier Surgical Bariatrics in Knoxville, Tennessee, provides a comprehensive approach to bariatric surgery. This article delves into the services offered, the process involved, and key personnel, particularly focusing on Dr. Mark Colquitt.
Understanding Foothills Weight Loss Surgeons
Foothills Weight Loss Surgeons, in partnership with Premier Surgical, offers a range of surgical weight loss options. These procedures include:
- Gastric Bypass
- Gastric Sleeve
- Duodenal Switch
The practice emphasizes a multi-disciplinary approach, recognizing that bariatric surgery is more than just an operation; it's a comprehensive lifestyle change.
Meet Dr. Mark Colquitt
Dr. Mark Colquitt is a key figure at Foothills Weight Loss Surgeons. As a board-certified general surgeon, he specializes in the above-mentioned surgical weight loss procedures. His qualifications include:
- Fellowship in the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
- Fellowship in the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopy Surgery
Dr. Colquitt also serves as the Medical Director of the Fort Sanders Regional Center for Bariatric Surgery, which holds accreditation as a Comprehensive Center under the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement program.
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The Bariatric Surgery Process at Foothills Weight Loss Surgeons
Embarking on a weight loss surgery journey with Foothills Weight Loss Surgeons involves several crucial steps:
- Educational Seminar: The first step involves watching a free online bariatric seminar led by Dr. Colquitt. This seminar, accessible via Chrome, FireFox, or Safari, is 35 minutes long and includes a quiz. It provides essential information about surgical weight loss options, their pros and cons, and the overall bariatric process. Many insurance plans require this informational session.
- Insurance Verification: It is crucial to verify your insurance coverage for bariatric surgery. Contact your insurance provider to determine if your policy has an exclusion for bariatric surgery, as exclusions are medical services not covered by a policy.
- Initial Consultation: You will meet with Dr. Mark Colquitt, the Bariatric Surgeon, who will review your medical history, discuss your goals and desires for pursuing bariatric surgery.
- Patient Advocate Introduction: During the initial consultation, you'll also meet with a patient advocate who explains the surgical process, costs, insurance benefits, and payment options. The patient advocate introduces you to the team and explains available support systems.
- Supervised Weight Loss Plan: Most insurance providers require documentation of a medically supervised weight-loss program for at least six months prior to surgery. Foothills Weight Loss Surgeons can assist with this requirement.
- Dietitian and Exercise Physiologist Consultation: A consultation with a dietitian will cover dietary changes required before and after surgery, including the importance of protein and adequate fluid intake. The dietitian will discuss changes to your digestive system and nutritional requirements; the use of multiple vitamin and mineral supplements; the importance of protein and adequate fluid intake; and any other concerns you may have. The consultation may also include suggestions for appropriate exercise and fitness routines.
- Psychological Evaluation: Meeting with a behavioral weight loss psychologist is an important step in the process.
- Clinical Clearance and Lab Tests: Pre-surgical testing is conducted to determine your health status, including meeting with an anesthesiologist and undergoing lab work.
- Surgery Day: On the day of surgery, patients arrive two hours beforehand. Bariatric surgery is performed under general anesthesia.
- Recovery and Monitoring: After surgery, patients are taken to the recovery room for continuous monitoring. Pain control is managed through IV medication, and oxygen is provided. Hospital stays typically involve one night for Sleeve Gastrectomy or Gastric Bypass and two nights for a Duodenal Switch procedure.
Post-Operative Care and Support
Foothills Weight Loss Surgeons emphasizes comprehensive follow-up care as a critical factor for weight loss success. This includes:
- Ongoing medical examinations from the surgeon to monitor weight loss, nutritional status, and any post-operative problems.
- Regular and consistent follow-up appointments with the surgeon are vital long-term.
- Support groups provide a supportive environment to discuss struggles and triumphs with peers.
The Importance of a Multidisciplinary Team
Bariatric surgery requires a team approach. At Foothills Weight Loss Surgeons, the team includes:
- Bariatric Surgeons, such as Dr. Mark Colquitt
- Registered Nurses, such as Dr. Trista Prater, RN
- Dietitians
- Exercise Physiologists
- Behavioral Weight Loss Psychologists
- Patient Advocates
Each team member plays a vital role in guiding patients through their weight loss journey.
Testimonials and Expectations
While individual results may vary, patient testimonials often highlight the positive impact of weight loss surgery. One patient shared that their surgery with Dr. Colquitt "has literally improved my health tremendously!" They recommended Foothills to anyone who is morbidly obese and has been unable to get healthy on their own.
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It's important to remember that weight loss surgery is not a quick fix. It requires a significant commitment and lifestyle changes to maintain long-term results. The process leading up to surgery can take months, and maintaining the results requires a lifelong commitment.
Finding Foothills Weight Loss Surgeons
Foothills Weight Loss Surgeons is located within Premier Surgical Bariatrics in Knoxville, Tennessee.
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