New to site; have an appointment tomorrow, 10/30/06

Hi, I attended two seminars. The first was at St. Raphael's with Dr. Nazdam and the other at St. Vincent's with Dr. Ehrlich. I decided to go to see Dr. Nazdam. I have Healthnet and Dr. Ehrlich's group are not partipating members. I would have to pay alot more out of pocket. I am considering lap band but am open to other surgeries. In fact, if I wasn't so afraid of dying, I would seriously consider the gastric by pass. I'd like some feedback on the surgeries and the surgeons I am considering. Thanks! Tina

Hi Tina, Welcome to the CT boards. I am sure you will get plenty of replies - we are a very friendly and supportive board. I can only speak for Dr. Erlich who did my lapband Aug. 1st. I absolutely love the man, his office staff, everyone there is so nice and helpful. I do understand about the paying more out of pocket. I would opt for the other doc as well as long as you are comfortable with him (or is it her?). I only chose Lap Band because of some of my conditions that did not go away with the surgery and malabsorption issues, but my health issues are very unique. I sometimes wonder where I would be if I did have the gastric bypass. You have to do what you feel comfortable with, it is not a decision for anyone to make but you. Just read and learn everything you can about each surgery. Everyone has such a different experience, you can read a bunch of profiles and I am sure that no 2 people will have the same experience. There is also a Lap Band board here if you have specific lap band questions. Good luck on your journey and in making your decision! Nancy K

Hi Nancy, Thank you for taking the time to answer me. I did have my appointment with Dr. Nadzam and he was wonderful. I am offically a candidate for the lap band surgery so I will continue the process, making appointments with the nutritionist and psychologist. I was wondering if you can feel the port and how painful was the fill? Thanks again! I look forward to hearing from you. Tina

Welcome Tina... If you and your Doctor agree that the Lap-band is a good option for you, go for it....I know many people who have done very well with it. I also have heard good things about Doctor Nazdam, so it sounds like you are in good hands.... Good luck, Dorota

Thank you Dorota for your warm welcome. I am so happy to have found this site. It has a lot of information as well as a great group of supportive people. Although I am nervous, I look forward to continuing my journey. Thanks again for your support and encourgagement. Tina

Hi Tina Our Chef Julio R. had Dr Nazdam and he is very happy with him. You can ask him about his doctor. Welcome to our Ct message board! Good luck, Kathy K

Hi Kathy, Thanks for your warm wishes. I have been in contact with Julio and he has wonderful things to say about Dr. Nadzam. I now have my appointment with the psychologist and am waiting to schedule the nutritionist appointment. I am excited to being this journey. Thank you for your support! Tina