Anyone in GA have Vsg

I am looking for info on Drs in GA that do VSG and thier patients experience.  Can anyone help me?

Thanks
Rita

Hi Rita -- I live in the Atlanta area but went to Mexico for my VSG.  I checked out the area hospitals: DeKalb Medical in Decatur only does lap band and RNY; Emory does it (pricey, and they are still building their reputation); and Dr. Paul Macik does it at Northside Hospital ... but I opted for Mexico, because the surgeons down there generally have more experience, and the cost was less (I was self-pay.)  However, I know that a lot of folks have VSG done locally and with great success, so keep checking your post to see who answers.  Best wishes!    --Dorothy

Thanks Dorothy

Did you consider Dr Dennis Smith?  I was told his price was less that 14K.  I saw on his profile he has done the DS for a long time. 

I talked to someone in his office and she made it sound like I would have to start from scratch to even 'see' if he would take me as a patient.  He was out on medical leave so I may try again when he is back. 

I hate driving in Atlanta though... if I coud talk to him and then just go and do it it wouldn't be so bad.  But if I have to go to Atlanta for the seminar, then  a consult with him, then the NUT,  Psych, and Pre-op.... I don't know.v

My DH get uptight  driving in a lot of traffic and he would be freaking if he has to drive in Atlanta. 

Hugs
Rita

I've read good things about Dr. Smith on OH.  But another reason I headed to Mexico was that I didn't have to jump through all the hoops that American doctors require.  I'm 55 years old, I've been overweight since I was 25, and I have done every hoop known to man ... probably multiple times.  Just didn't want to go that route. 

And , heh heh, I agree about Atlanta traffic!  Hate it with a passion.  I generally stay on my side of town unless there is no option!    --Dorothy

Dr. Michael Blaney in Augusta, Ga performs the VSG.

Do you know how long he has been doing them.  I know I can get Blis Coverage through him.

Hugs
Rita

Hi Rita,

I'm a patient of Dr. Smith and will be having my VSG on 8/21. Dr. Smith is a very through doc, and is greatly recommended by other health professionals that I've come in contact with. Dr. Smith also teaches VSG to other surgeons...that was a plus for me.To start the process, his office sends you a questionaire to fill out, its just basically a medical history. Once he reviews it, then you will be notified if he will take you on as a patient. Just make sure that you tell the office that you are from out of town. They handle out of town patients a little differently so you dont have to travel to much. As far as Atlanta, his office is located in Marietta, so you won't be stuck driving downtown ATL...tell the hubby not to worry. Anyhow, feel free to PM with any questions.

Akilah~

Thank you,   Do you know if the Psych Eval I had will be enough?  I have already had my NUT class and am on my pre-op diet.  I am scheduled for August 28.  The cost for the band is $13950.  If I have the sleeve it  will be $27,990 + another $4800 for a filter.  I hate to change Drs at this point but....I just don't know about paying over $14000 more than for the band.

Are you going to be self pay or do you have insurance? 

Hugs
Rita

You might want to consider some of the Mexican docs or some of the other doctors in the US that perform the VSG. You may need to travel but if it saves you $14,000 it would be worth it.

The nice thing about the VSG is that once you have it done you can forget about it.  There is not much follow up care so you don't need to live close to your doctor.

Thanks, that is what I am thinking about Dr Smith.  Mexico is out of the question as far as my DH is concerned.   But as much trouble it would be to have to drive through Atlanta traffic, it is worth checking out.

I am still praying the SC hospital will revise their rates and I can continue with my surgery as planned.  It is bad enough to have to pay out of pocket but then to have to pay more than twice what others charge is unreal.

Hugs
Rita