Dr. Kim in Celebration and DS

Hi all, I have made the decision to quit wondering and do this thing. I live in Palatka and assumed I would go to Ocala, probably to Dr. Jawad. However, if I am going to do this I am going all the way and I understand the DS and associated surgeries are the most restrictive, produce more and faster weight loss, and have lower gainback rates. I will deal with any diet deficiencies if and when I face them. Anyway, it appears from what I can find that only Dr. Kim in Celebration does this type of surgery. I would love to hear from any Floridians who have had the DS surgery, had Dr. Kim, and especially anyone who has had him do this surgery. I don't wish to sound as though I have thrown caution to the wind; but, if I am going to do this, I am going for the fastest, longest success rate available. I have both United Health Care and Medicare, several co-morbidities and BMI of 45.4. Any thoughts would be welcome. Suzanne

Suzanne- Those of us who have had the DS think it is the best WLS going. Why don't you come to our DS support group this Saturday? It is held in Orlando from 12-2:00pm. It is an open group with no ties to any particular surgeon. It is attended by people who went to Brazil for surgery, there are also several US surgeons represented in the group. I am not sure if there are any of Dr. Kim's patients there. I had DS surgery in July with Dr. Anthone in Omaha Nebraska. There is also a DS forum here at OH. It is a lively forum with a lot of really super people -- people who are committed to the DS. I think you could get a lot of information and support there. http://www.obesityhelp.com/forums/DS/ When did Dr. Kim start doing the DS again. I know that he did it briefly when he first came to Florida and then I believe it was in 2004 he quit doing it. I have loads of research material on the DS I would be happy to share with you -- but you will need to send me an email so I can send you an attachment. Suzanne-please do think about coming Saturday. We meet every other month so the next meeting will be in December. Red

Hey Suzanne, Dr. Kim did my DS two years ago. I can tell you that he has a FANTASTIC (in fact, award winning) program at Celebration with US Bariatrics. But....I have some unpleasant news for you. He does not do the DS any longer, which is really a shame as he truly is a gifted surgeon. He still performs the RNY however. Just thought you should know.