Lap Band at CHRIAS or Barix Clinics

Hey guys, I am a diabetic type 2 with a BMI of 42. I am interested in the Lap Band surgery. I have a consultation with Barix Clinic in Langhorne, Pa. in June 06' Dr Brader is supposly a great surgeon. Barix Clinics is about 50 minutes away. I have also heard that Dr Wynn and Dr Irgau from CHRIAS (only abour 30 minutes away) are great surgeons also. The question is Has anyone had the Lap Band done with CHRIAS and did their office do all the leg work with the insurance companies and how was the surgeons and atmosphere? Or has anyone had the Lap Band done at Barix Clinics and did they do all of the leg work with the insurance companies and again how were the surgeons and the atmosphere? I am going to have enough stress with getting the surgery and preparing for it...I do not need the extra stress with BLue Cross/ Blue Shield Personal Choice

You will have more replys than you can read. I had Lap Band Surgery with CHRIAS, on 4/7/06. What can I say other then they are the best. From the first meeting with Dr Irgau, to the date of the surgery. I was so stressed about getting approval from BCBS, and Misty from the office called me a week prior to surgery telling me I was approved, I didn't have to wait for the letter from BCBS. Dr Irgau is well, great. He went over everything with me, even suggested St Francis since their program was less expensive than Christians as far as out of pocket expenses. I had limited resources for covering those cost. The day of surgery Dr Irgau came to see me prior to surgery to see if I was ok, or had any additional questions, he spoke with my son afterwards. I have been back to the office twice now and see associates of Dr Irgau, will meet with him on my 2 month anniversay appointment. Everyone at the office is great, they even have a store to purchase protein products. I can only speak for my experience at CHRIAS. I am sending all my friends there who are interested in WLS. Best of luck with your journey, I'm sure you'll make out fine what ever road you take. Linda