Aloha!

Dr. C is my surgeon. His credentials speak for themselves. He is outstanding in the field of bariatric surgery. You can check his numbers yourself and compare him with other surgeons. There are many fine ones out there... there are also some I would shy away from. In my case, I wanted to chose the type of surgery I was going to have and who my surgeon would be and after MUCH research on the subject, I wanted Dr. Cirangle and the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy.

My insurance wouldn't pay for any WLS outside Hawaii though, so I had to self-pay. I feel it was an investment in myself... the best investment I could have made. Dr. C comes to Maui for our follow-up visits, but doesn't perform the surgeries here in HI, so yes, you have to go to CA for the surgery. He is only comfortable in a hospital that has the designation of being a Center of Excellence, so that meant I had to go to San Fran. I wanted that security, too.

You can communicate with his office and they will answer any and all your questions. Also, visit his website... if you haven't already done so at: lapSF.com. There is a LOT of information there. They also come to the islands for seminars and support groups that you can attend on a monthly basis.

The choice is ultimately yours. I feel you must be comfortable with your decision for optimal success. Do your homework and weigh all your options. This is a life-changing event and you need to be prepared, educated, and willing to accept changes as well as understand the risks involved.

All WLS's are tools. You still have to do the work. They aren't an instant miracle that will make you thin for the rest of your life. You have to work at it and understand how to use your tool. If you are properly prepared physically and mentally, you'll succeed beyond your dreams! It is a journey like no other!!

Best of luck to you and I hope this helps.
Malama pono!

Thank you for replying...it's such a big relief in my journey to surgery. As for surgery, I have HMSA HMO. And As far as paying out of your pocket, it will be a big investment. But worth it. i really need to conquer my life and im very excited to do so!!!! Thank You!!!!!

Hello i was wondering if anyone out there went there Dr. Criangle, to do there surgery. He works out in San Fran. I have spoke with several cousions who all had the surgery done. On swears by Castle the other by Queens and one by  Dr Criangle. The thing with Criangle its in San Fran, yet he could do the surgey in about a month. How long does Queens or Castle take. Any help would be great. Thanks

Thanks for all your well wishes!  I am home in Kona and doing very well.  Feeling stronger every day and looking forward to going to the store today to buy some Lite Yoghurt!!!!

I miss you too and I am definately missing support group.  I have found one here and everyone is really nice but it isn't the same.  I feel really out of place.  I am missing my hubby too but I think it is harder for him cause at least I am home with my friends and family.  He is pretty much on his own.  He is staying with some friends but it isn't the same.  Hope all is well.
Ginger