Looking for Dr. Chae "graduates"..

Hi everybody! I just discovered this Colorado board, I feel like a feeb for never having seen it before! I just confirmed my date for May 21st, I thought it was going to be a few weeks later than that and am going into wig out mode. Just wondering what to expect pre and post surgery, and what everybody thought of the whole experience with Dr. Chae. Maybe you can give me some pointers and share experiences. Very nervous!!! Jennifer

I'm a little over 2 years out from surgery and had my surgery with Dr. Chae. I will tell you he has wonderful bedside manners and any and all questions you have he will answer. I'm also going to tell you to absolutely utilize Kelly for all your food questions. She knows what she's talking about and you can't go wrong if you follow what she tells you. I was a ball of nerves too before my surgery. You're gonna do great!! Also, Sky Ridge is a pretty nice hospital. I had my own room with a couch that folded into a bed so my mom could stay in there with me. Anyways, feel free to send me a message about any questions you have. Kerri 341/173/160 **5'9" Start/Current/Goal

Oh one more thing...They also have a support group meeting at Sky Ridgefor Dr Chae patients and its the second thursday of every month. I'm not going to be there this month but I will be there next month which will be after your surgery.. Look forward to seeing you there!! Kerri

Thanks, Kerri! I do plan on attending the support group! Maybe I'll check it out this month, I've really been planning on attending, but then I thought I had plenty of time to go preop...YIKES! I do already realize what a gem Kelly is. What a neat lady! I thought her class was awesome! Looking forward to meeting you. Jennifer P.S. You may just regret that offer about questions....I could probably come up with quite a list!!

Hi Jennifer, There's really no need to be nervous ... Dr. Chae is a great doctor, that's why you chose him! The uncomfortable part is all the flushing you'll be doing the night before ... plan to stay home and near the bathroom ;-) Do your best to visualize the success you're going to have after your surgery and breathe deeply when you feel scared. When you wake up you'll be thirsty because you've been withou****er for 24+ hours, and in a little pain, but it's not bad and they make sure to keep you comfortable so be honest about your pain level. The hospital is nice and you have a private room with caring nurses who understand what you've just been through. You're in great hands my dear. Don't waste energy being scared or nervous, instead direct it to being excited about your new life! :-D

What a great way to look at it. I do really think Dr. Chae is a good doctor. I've heard so many really good things about him, and I was very impressed with him at my consultation. I hope I can take your advice. May 21st is sneaking up very quickly. In a way, that might be good so that I can't mull over it too much and weasel out! ;-o Thank you, Jennifer

Dr Chae is awesome! After the surgery he will give you his personal cell # in case you have any questions at all. I am 1 month out and haven't had any problems at all. It's normal to be nervous before surgery but you are in great hands. Hugs Lori

Thanks, Lori! Everybody does say that he's the best. If I gotta do it, at least I've got that going for me! Thanks so much for your reply, Jennifer

Hi Jennifer, You are in great hands with Dr. Chae. He did my lap rny on November 8, 2005 and gave me back my life. He is an awesome doc. Sky Ridge is a terrific hospital. Kelly is wonderful so you are in good hands all around. Dr. Chae probably does the best follow up of any surgeon I've heard of. Nervous in normal but be assured you have picked the best. Didi

Thanks, Didi!! I'm beginning to feel a little bit better about this. Although I will say it is a slow process accepting that I have to do this! I do think you're right that I (we) have the best. Thanks so much for your encouragement! Surgery is on May 21st! Jennifer