Pensacola - What made you choose your surgeon?

Hello. I've been seriously considering this surgery for (gulp) 4 years now. Everytime I pick my surgeon (including preliminary meetings), my husband's job starts talking about moving us.... out of state. Of course, I decide to wait so that I will be able to have 'aftercare' through my surgeon's office. Well, now we are in Alabama (lower) and I have to go through the initial meetings, find a surgeon & pcp (for the 3rd time), nutritionists, etc. I know that most people are really tickled with their surgeon and hospital. I'm not asking you to slam the other surgeons or hospitals, but what was the reason that you chose yours? I am scheduled to go to those 'So you want to have surgery' meetings over the next two weeks, and I could use a little insight from the locals. Thanks!

#1 thing was excellent surgical history and recommendations. Then the fact that my insurance covered him and his location.

A co-worker found Dr. OC through the insurance. Didn't even bother me that I had to travel 1.5 hr to see him. I didn't have any preconceived ideas about him. After the consult - I knew I made the right choice...even though my co-worker got scared and had the lapband vs the RNY. I was still confident about having the RNY. I didn't get to know about OH nor any good or bad abt the surgeon...and knowing that he did the best surgery on me and not listening to others people's opinion - I still know I made the best choice. You go to the consult and see how you click with him/staff, and take it from there. Best of luck!

His experience, reputation, background, stats. and advice from people whom I trust that are in the medical field themselves. I considered all my options of physicians in this area (and even some out of area) and I chose Dr. Lord even though he is NOT on my PPO provider list. It is all a personal decision though. Everyone needs to do their homework and decide who they would prefer doing their surgery. Good luck!! Betty

I researched... researched...researched... I actually made a book that I took with me to show all the doctors to see there reaction of pictures of me from child hood medical difficulties I had had through my life do to weight etc.. Reasons I wnated this surgery.. What my weight was precventing in my life etc.. I actually interviewed a doctor here in Pensacola while I lived in Mississippi but ended up having it done in Miss becasue when I met with the doctor I just knew he was the one to do the surgery.. I was his 13th Surgery Yes 13th, lol.. I put it in the scenario that I wanted to feel 100% comfortable with the doctor that was doing my surgery.. I deseved that much. For me the surgery was life or death so my options were a tad limited but the best thing I could say is research do searches on the doctors name you would be surprised what you find Look for other people that have had him as there surgeon, dont feel scared to email them and ask question 99% chance they wont mind answering any question you have I hope this helped even if just a little HUGSSSSS Karen 2 years 3 months post op -263 pounds

Thank you for all of your responses! Honestly, I have been looking at this surgery for so long and done so much research that I feel like I could do a pretty good job myself (just kidding). When I was in NC, I had decided on Dr. Mitchell. He was great. Hopefully, I will find a group that I like as much. Thanks!

When I had mine, he was basically the only game in town, other than a brand new doctor who had no experience. If I had wanted to travel I am sure I could have found someone else. He also came highly recommended and had tons of experience. What sealed it for me was at my first visit he spoke with me and my husband and answered each and every questions with patience. His mannerisms and his staff's caring attitude were wonderful. I didn't care if I had open or lap, I only wanted to be healthy. Scars were/are of no concern to me. I wanted a good surgeon (which I got) and my health back (which I also got). Best of luck! Patty

I agree with Angie (we have the same surgeon). He had excellent credentials and he came HIGHLY recommended and he practices at the hospital I wanted to use (Tallahassee Memorial Regional Medical Center). At the time of my surgery, he was not a BCBS provider so I had to pay a bit more out of pocket since he wasn't "in network" but it was worth it! (I understand he is now a BCBS provider) I'm almost 18 months post-op, have been at or below MY goal (which was less than his) for 6 months and have nothing but praise for him. If you don't mind traveling to Tallahassee, Dr. Elliott Sieloff & his staff are fabulous and the care at TMRMC is great, too! Vickie J. 277 / 132.2 (after LBL) / 138 Facial PS 3/21/06 LBL PS 6/27/06

Dr. Lord came so highly recommended, after weighing all my options, I couldnt trust using anyone but him!

Hi, I am from the Pensacola area and I went to Dr. Jeffery Caylor in Foley @ South Balldwin Hospital. I am in the medical field and a MD friend of mine suggested I visit him for the lapband surgery. My MD friend told me Dr. Caylor is very percise as a surgeon and takes a lot of pride in taking his time and good outcomes. Dr. Caylor is very good!!!!! My pre- and post-op periods were great. I got up and went home with little to no pain. I had Lortab liquid but only took a couple of doses. My incisions healed fast and they look good. He is mild mannered and has a wonderful wit as well as a GREAT surgeon!!!! Please consider seeing him in Foley. I go this week for a fill.....I hope he said "possible fill" I know I need one. take care and good luck on your journey. It will be the best decision you have ever made. I had to pay cash and I would do it again in a heart beat!!! Hugs, Donna