Coming in from Missouri to Dr. Snyders Seminar

I am coming in from Kansas City area for our family vacation and just by chance that is when Dr. Snyder is having his seminar, I also have an appointment with him that same week- What does he do at this first appointment? Has anyone done a long distance surgery? Can you fly home or is driving better? I know you need to stay in town for a week or so. I am pretty sure my insurance will cover it, it is a covered item , but I have to have it at a HCA hospital. And I have to travel to Colorado to find both a surgeon and hospital that are in the plan. But I hear Dr. Snyder is one of the best. Does he require any thing particular from his paitents? I dont smoke or drink.. I already drink quite a lot of water. I drink a little diet coke and only decaf tea. I am pretty healthy besides my weight. Mostly joint and back problems. My BMI is 50. I would rather have the Lap Band but I heard it takes years to lose the weight, is that true? Guess I am just anxious and nervous.

Hi! Dr. Snyder is my surgeon. He is so caring and nice! You're gonna love him. At the first appointment, he goes over the extensive packet of information and your personal medical history that you get at his seminars. At that time he determines your weight, BMI, comorbidities, if any, and if you are generally a good candidate for surgery. He will also go over which type of surgery would be best for you depending on your personal needs. He treats you with dignity and is very understanding! He is also encouraging. Dr. Snyder does require his patients to be smoke-free (which you already are). You can't drink diet coke after surgery (at least not with an RNY) because it can stretch out your pouch. He prefers only decaf products. I had RNY surgery. I had my surgery on April 14, 2004. I have lost about 45 pounds so far. I don't know a whole lot about Lap Band, but Dr. Snyder is really good about answering all your questions and he tries to take as much time with his patients as he can so that you are fully informed and comfortable with your decision. Good luck to you! Megan Smith