Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric Surgery Program
Deciding to get bariatric surgery is a big decision for patients who have been struggling with weight management for years, sometimes decades. You can trust North Idaho Endoscopy and Surgical Specialists to provide the most advanced and patient-centered care during your bariatric surgery journey.
Dr. Cory Richardson is fellowship trained in bariatric surgery and is a Fellow of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS). He is a member of the ASMBS Flexible Endoscopy Committee, where he develops national standards and curriculum for endoscopic bariatric procedures and serves as a national proctor for certifying surgeons and gastroenterologists in bariatric endoscopy. He also serves as the ASMBS State Access to Care Representative for the state of Idaho.
We perform a variety of bariatric procedures, including:
- Gastric bypass
- Sleeve gastrectomy
- Laparoscopic and endoscopic revisional bariatric surgery
- Lap band explants
Program overview:
The program begins with a review of your medical records for the past two years to help determine your candidacy for bariatric surgery followed by an initial consultation with your surgeon. Pre-surgical requirements include consultation with a dietitian and mental health provider as well as a preoperative medical workup that includes upper endoscopy, labs, EKG, and imaging studies. It may also require medical clearance from your primary care provider or other specialists as well as any other insurance specific requirements you may have specific to your policy. Surgeries are performed in the most minimally invasive way possible and most patients spend less than 24 hours in the hospital. After surgery, you will have regularly scheduled follow up appointments with your surgeon, dietitian, and primary care provider to aid you in reaching your maximum potential for weight loss and improvement in health and quality of life.
We work with a variety of insurance companies and offer competitive self-pay pricing for those who do not have insurance coverage. Our initial bariatric paperwork will guide you through calling your insurance company to determine whether you have coverage. If you have any additional questions after speaking with your insurance company, our staff is available to help you navigate through the process before, during, and after your surgery.