Another Option for Hawaii

I would like to share this with any lurkers or anyone considering surgery. This is my opinion and my experience. I just want others to know that there is another option and to research all options of surgery before you decide on one just because your doctor only performs a certain procedure. It was upsetting to me that I was never informed that the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG) procedure existed until I went to a seminar with Dr. Cirangle. The worst part is that I was signed up for the RNY with a local doctor because my PCP refused to refer me to Dr. Cirangle. When I called my insurance company I was told that no doctor in Hawaii would refer me to him because he is out of state and he would not even get approved by HMSA. Well, when I had a fall out with my PCP about another issue I called Dr. Cirangle and asked him to refer me to a PCP that was friendly to his office. He did and I received my referral to see Dr. Cirangle formally. I went to his seminar and learned about the VSG. WOW!!!!! After learning about the VSG, there was no way I was having the RNY, even if I had to wait to come up with the money for the VSG myself. (Before any RNYers slam me, please remember: this is my story and my opinion) Within a week of my appointment with my PCP I received my approval from my insurance company for my surgery with Dr. Cirangle. It could not have been more easy once I found the right PCP. The VSG has its own page and if you would like to learn more about it, I encourage you to visit the page and to come to a seminar at Kapiolani at Pali Momi the first Saturday of every month. (Although September's will be the second because of Labor Day) The main four types of surgery are discussed with all pros and cons - LAPsf does all four procedures and does not try to influence anyone on one type over another. I was amazed at the difference of this surgery and the results that are achieved. The biggest difference is that this procedure gets rid of the gherlin hormone (the hormone that causes us to feel hunger). I recognize that other procedures have been successful at weightloss and are the right choice for some people. I also recognize that the VSG is not right for everyone. However, I am asking that if you are considering surgery, please research it if you have not heard of it. Research and compare all surgery types. It does exist and the results are proven to show the same weightloss as other procedures. Actually, LAPsf has shown a greater weight loss and quicker recovery time on the VSG than on the RNY.