Options Program for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
Metabolic and bariatric surgery includes a variety of surgical procedures that support weight loss and overall health improvement. Options is Kaiser Permanente’s metabolic and bariatric surgery preparation and support program. It was designed with members and health care professionals to prepare you for surgery and support you long term.
or call (858) 616-5600
What would you like to do?
Learn more about the program
View bariatric surgery materials and resources
Register for a post-surgery support group or class
Your Program Journey
1. Attend An Informational Orientation
Whether you are just exploring metabolic and bariatric surgery or are ready to start your surgery preparation, Kaiser Permanente is here to support you. Program is available to those 18 years old and up. > Learn more about our program
2. Education & Preparation
Options is Kaiser Permanente’s metabolic and bariatric surgery preparation and support program. It was designed with members and health care professionals to both prepare you for surgery and support you long term. In this stage, you will attend an orientation session and two educational workshops, complete health checks, and additional screenings. > View materials and learn more
3. Surgery Scheduling
Upon completion of your Options Program, you will work with our team of Bariatric Surgeons and medical professionals to prepare you for your surgery day. You and your surgeon will determine the best day for your surgery. Bariatric surgeries are performed by Kaiser Permanente Bariatric Surgeons at Scripps Mercy Hospital.
4. Attend Support Groups
Ongoing education and support is essential for the best long-term outcomes from your surgery. Your success depends on a lifelong commitment to healthy habits and we’re here to support you along the way. > View support groups
We’re a phone call or message away.
Contact Our Team
Please note, you should follow up with your surgeon directly for medical questions in the first 4 weeks after surgery.
Kaiser Permanente San Diego Bariatric Services department phone number is 858-616-5722.
- For pre-surgery questions ,please press 1.
- For post-surgery, please press 2.
- For general information on our Options, pre-surgery education program, please press 3.
- We will respond to your message within 24-48 hours, during our operating hours of 8 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday – Friday. If this is a medical or psychiatric emergency please go to the nearest urgent care center or emergency department.
- Options information en Español or call 858-616-5729
Bariatric Medical Team
- Alejandra Diedrich PA
- Christine Doan, PA
- Arlen Correa RN
- Lisa Cook, NP
- Melissa Villegas RN
- Delina Sherman, MA
- Terry Appleby, MA
- Ruby Hernandez MA
Clinic Locations & Hours
Garfield
Monday – Thursday
7:30 am – 12:00 pm & 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Vista
Monday & Tuesday
7:30 am – 12:30 pm & 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm
(Closed from 12:30 pm -1:30 pm)
Otay Mesa
Wednesday
9:00 am – 12:30 pm & 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm
(Closed from 12:30 pm -1:30 pm)
Bostonia
Thursday
7:30 am – 12:30 pm & 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm
(Closed from 12:30 pm -1:30 pm)
Your surgery preparation starts with a pre-program informational orientation session. After completion, you’ll attend 2-weekly educational workshops covering nutrition, physical activity and sleep, mental health and wellness, and medical information about your procedure and long-term considerations. During this time, we will begin any medical screenings required by your surgeon.
Please be aware that completing your two workshops does not guarantee surgery scheduling. There are several steps to complete after your workshops. It may take time to complete these steps. We offer additional support classes to assist you after your workshops are done.
Educational Materials
You can pick up hard copies of educational materials at our clinic locations.
Your Workshop Resource Guide
The Options Resource Guide is your guide to metabolic and bariatric surgery preparation and long-term support at Kaiser Permanente.
Your Post-Surgery Meal Plan
Guide for nutrition after surgery, including stage-specific guidance and quick references for caution foods, protein supplements, and vitamin and mineral supplements.
Your Guide To Vitamins & Minerals After Surgery
Surgery changes the way the body absorbs vitamins and minerals. Use this guide as a quick reference on important vitamin and mineral supplements you will need to take for the rest of your life to maintain good health. >Order vitamins online
Additional Resources
Other helpful links
- Schedule your weight and blood pressure check
- Download a tracking app
- Watch 5-minute exercise videos
- Join our Facebook Group
- Download self-care apps
- View a recorded overview session
- Important information about birth control after bariatric surgery
You may also enjoy any of our additional weight management, nutrition, fitness, and stress management services.
“Although I thought I was ready when I attended the orientation, I learned so much in my weekly classes. I feel confident that I can succeed.”
Classes to support your success
We want you to feel well-prepared before surgery and to feel supported lifelong after surgery. We offer a variety of classes to meet the most common needs. No fee for KP members, click below to sign up! Or call 858-616-5600. Most services are also available in Spanish and are only available to KP members.
Nutrition and Support Group Services
Pre-Surgery Jumpstart!
Tuesdays 5:30-6:30 p.m.; Online
This 5-part series provides a meal plan, education, and support as you work to achieve your pre-surgery weight loss goals. Available for pre-surgery patients. >Schedule now
First Few Months
Mondays 6-7 p.m., Tuesdays 12-1:00 p.m. or Wednesdays 4-5 p.m.; Online
Get support as your transition through diet stages and learn new skills to feel your best after surgery. Best for those in the first 12-18 months after surgery. Available for post-surgery patients. >Schedule now
Nutrition and Lifestyle Support Group
Wednesdays 6-7:30 p.m.; Online
Meet with others who are on the same journey to discuss nutrition after surgery and share experiences or get advice from others. Available for pre- and post- surgery patients. >Schedule now
Back to Basics
Tuesdays 4-5:00 p.m. or 7-8:00 p.m.; Wednesdays 6-7 p.m.; Online
For those looking to get back on track after surgery. This is a safe place to share experiences with weight regain, vitamin deficiencies, eating struggles, and more. Available for post surgery patients looking to get back on track. >Schedule now
Meal Planning Sessions
Online
Wednesday 6-7 p.m. >Schedule evening session now
Post-surgery class to work with a registered dietitian and other bariatric surgery peers to set weekly meal plans that meet your daily nutrition needs and preferences. Plan to interact and participate in hands-on activities in class. Available for post-surgery patients who are in the solid food eating stage.
Fitness Services
JAM (Joy and Movement)
Mondays 5-6:00 p.m. or Wednesdays 8-9 a.m.; Online
Plan to move your body for 30 minutes and then stay for a 30 minute Q&A session on fitness related topics. Open and accessible to all. Available for pre- and post-surgery patients. >Schedule now
On Demand Videos
Work out with us online, with a variety of different exercises including strength training, cardio, and yoga.
Additional Services
Making Peace with Food
Mondays 6-7:30 p.m; Tuesdays 4-5:30 p.m.; Wednesdays 12-1:30 p.m.; Thursdays 6-7:30 p.m.; Online
Led by a mental health clinician, this class is based on the 10 Principles of Intuitive Eating. Available for pre- and post- surgery patients. >Schedule now
GLP-1 Medication Support
If you have had bariatric surgery and are using GLP-1 medication, we offer several services, including a 15-session education and support program called Renew, a weekly support group, and more. >Learn more
Note: we do not prescribe weight loss medications, please contact your primary care physician with any questions.
Pregnancy Support After Surgery
2nd Tuesdays 6-7 p.m.; Online
Attend this monthly education and support group with a registered dietitian to learn how to have a healthy pregnancy after bariatric surgery. There is no fee to attend, open to KP members only. Call 858-616-5722 to schedule.
Has your surgeon recommended a pre-surgery liquid diet or the use of meal replacements? >View your program information here