I had my surgery on September 6, 2007.  Dr Schoen was my surgeon and I liked him very much.  I have lost 95 pounds so far and am not having the excess skin problems that some patients have because I have stopped losing for the last few months.  That is not due to the surgery, which has been very successful, but due to other medical problems.  My thyroid is very messed up and my medications have been changed several times but one time it was made too low through a PA error and so I actually gained some weight.  Talk about being UPSET!!  I am back on tract now though.  Do not worry about looking older.  If you are concerned with the sagging skin remember that you can get it removed later if necessary.  You will feel so much better and look so much better in clothes, that you won't mind.  I find I don't.  I spent so much of my life being fat that having a bit of saggy skin is nothing.  And my face looks younger!

I am scheduled for surgery on Sept. 4th with Dr. Schoen @ University Fitzsimmons I just wonder if anyone  had him or knows anyone.  A close friend of mine got her RNY done 18 months ago and she lost a lot of weight and hasn't mentioned any complications.  I have never seen a thin her before and she looks like a different person.  I know she's healthier and I'm happy for her for that reason but, honestly she looks older she's only two years older than me, we used to hang out all the time but things are so different now ...I'm only 28 and I don't wanna look 35 when I start loosing.  I have never seen a thin me ..ever I am so scared to change into someone else but I have faith that I will look better and not worse.  I know that I will be healthier which is most important and  I know that everyone is different. 

I have several friends who have had breast lifts and tummy tucks by Dr. Vath.
I've seen his work and it is amazing!

Dr. Kirshenbaum saved my life.  I had health insurance that didn't cover the Lap Band.  I had to do something and Dr. K was there!  He is an expert at what he does in the OR.  I have no doubt in his skills!
His office is very busy and you do have to wait a long time. 
I also have sought support and information elsewhere.  I think his monthly meetings are great, but it's up to us to seek support.  We have a huge support system via Lap Band Talk, "Considering Dr. Kirshenbaum" thread.  We meet monthly for support in person.  If someone comes from out of state, we try to meet with them.  I have personally supported three different out of state patients of Dr. K's.  We post daily on the LBT thread and if someone has an issue or problem, we are ready and available to assist.
I would highly recommend Dr. Kirshenbaum.  You can't beat his Lap Experience AND you cannot beat his attitude and care.  You can call him anytime day or night and he will call you back immediately if his office is closed.  I have his private cell. He gave it to me before I had my surgery.  He's my biggest cheerleader!

Inique and Stinam,
I am up north too, would love to meet up if you do.  What support groups do you go to? 

Also, wanted to add, Stinam, I did end up going through with lap band with Dr. Snyder, after my initial issues with Dolly she came through for me.  The after care has been wonderful.  Just today I had a question and called and got Amanda and she followed through and called me back 3 times today, each time with more info for me.  the support groups and nutrition classes have been awesome too.  Best of luck in where ever you decide to go. 
Oh and Dr. Metz is with Dr. Brown at Pres/St Luke, i went to that seminar too, but was disappointed the docs didnt' come to the seminar so I didn't pursue them further.