Moving to Florida need some guidance

Hello everyone, This is my first post. I've been bumming around the site for about 2 months. I will be moving to the Sorrento/Lake Mary area. Does anyone have any recommendations for PCP/Internal Med doctors in the area that are WLS friendly? I will be self-pay Lap-band in Jan 06. I am still researching Doctors in the area. Any input on that would also be greatly appreciated. I figure it will take that long for me to get established, meet a surgeron and get all labs and test done. I've learned so much from all your insight--it's refreshing!! Thanks!! Michelle

If im not mistaken, Lake mary is just north of Orlando but im not positive. If thats the case Dr Kim in Celebration is the only Orlando WLS specialist, tho alot of people drive to Ocala too were there is Dr Jawad and Overcash. My personal choice was Dr Jawad in Ocala. His complication numbers are far below the national average, and he has a good suport staff. He did my RnY on May 9th. Good luck on the move and your PCP and WLS decisions. I am sure you have studied the difference between Lap-band and RnY, i will say this, if you have little to no self control opt for the RnY. Just my opinion from what i have read and been informed by my surgeon. I self paid too.

Welcome to Florida Michelle! I am a pre-op as well and I know my doctor does lap bands. He is located in Largo, near the Tampa/Clearwater area, which is just across the way off of I-4. You can check him out at: www.drhaicken.com Good luck in your search and again, welcome! ~Roiann

Michelle, I live on the border of Lake Mary and Longwood, but work in Lake Mary. There are not any WLS surgeons in the Orlando area, but as stated above the closest is Dr. Kim at Celebration (past Disney), a couple surgeons in Ocala (also mentioned above) and a bariatric practice in Daytona (not sure of their name). My PCP has been very supportive, yet they aren't terribly educated in my needs after surgery so I have to remind them of my special WLS cir****tances regarding bloodwork or meds. I still like the practice and will continue to see them because they have been extremely supportive of my surgery and weightloss. I see the PA there who is wonderful. There is also a support group that meets monthly in Lake Mary, hopefully you can join us in July or August to get to know some of us from the board and the area to help create some support for yourself. Have a safe move and keep us posted. Amy -180lb (stuck again)

Amy, Thanks for responding. I'm counting down our move from Louisiana to Florida. We are building a home in Sorrento Springs but I am sure most of my running around will be in Lake Mary. SR 46 allows us to get there in 15 minutes. Could I please have the name of your PCP? I am also a nurse so I know what my needs will be. Thanks again, Michelle

OK im CONFUSSED..........Sorrento/Lake Mary???????? THEY ARE NO WERE NEAR EACH OTHER. I have a awsome Dr in lake mary so let me know if your moving there.