As summer winds down and routines return to normal, September is one of the best times to take control of your health and start your weight loss journey. At Nicholson Clinic, we help you navigate every step of the process, from insurance approvals to surgery scheduling, so you can reach your goals sooner.
Whether you’re planning to use insurance or go the self-pay route, getting started now sets you up for success — and it could mean having surgery before the end of the year. Here’s why:
- Beat the Insurance Approval Timeline
Most insurance companies require a 1–4 month approval process before weight loss surgery. This typically includes:
- A consultation with a dietitian
- A psychological evaluation
- Any necessary medical testing
- Completing a mandatory 2-week pre-op diet
Scheduling your consultation in September means you’ll have plenty of time to check off these requirements and still schedule surgery before the year ends. If you wait too long, you risk getting pushed into next year’s deductible cycle.
Pro Tip: Patients who plan ahead often save significantly when their insurance deductible has already been met!
- Take Advantage of Back-to-Routine Season
With kids back in school and work schedules settling, it’s easier to fit in pre-op appointments, stick to your diet plan, and prepare for surgery. Planning ahead also gives you time to understand what to expect before, during, and after surgery.
And recovery is often quicker than people expect. Most gastric sleeve patients:
- Can work from home just 3–5 days after surgery
- Schedule surgery on a Thursday and are back to work by Monday
- Fast-Track Your Journey with Self-Pay
Going the self-pay route means you can move even faster and skip insurance requirements.
- Consult + surgery can often be scheduled within 30 days
- Have surgery this fall
- Be celebrating a whole new you by the holidays
- Why So Many Patients Choose Year-End Surgery
December is one of the busiest months for bariatric surgery, and for good reason:
- Insurance deductibles: Many patients have already met their deductible, making surgery more affordable.
- FSA/HSA benefits: Use your flexible spending account before funds expire — it’s “use it or lose it” for many plans.
- Built-in recovery time: Holiday breaks often make it easier to take time off work or school.
- Support from loved ones: With family around for the holidays, patients have extra help and encouragement during recovery.
- Head start on New Year’s goals: Having surgery before January gives you a jumpstart on your weight-loss journey and sets you up for success in the new year.
- The “Best” Time to Start Depends on You
While September is an ideal time to begin, the best time for weight loss surgery is whenever you’re ready to commit. Success isn’t about the calendar — it’s about your dedication to making lasting lifestyle changes.
Starting now ensures you have enough time to meet insurance requirements, plan your recovery, and step into the new year with confidence. And it’s a great way to maximize your insurance benefits and minimize your out-of-pocket expenses!
Take the First Step Today
Don’t wait until November or December when schedules are packed and surgery spots are limited. Whether you’re using insurance or going self-pay, starting your journey in September positions you for success.
Call us today at 972-494-3100 or go online to request your consultation now— and let Nicholson Clinic help you start your transformation today!
