Where? What Surgeon?

Hi, I'm new here. I am just beginning the process of researching WLS though my PCP and I have touched on the subject a few times. I have an appt. with him this coming Monday and I plan to tell him I'm now seriously considering this as an option. There's a seminar May 28th given by the place in Georgetown that I think I'll attend. I live in Southern Indiana not far from Louisville. If you've done research on options in the Louisville area, Lexington, etc. I'd like to hear your opinions. I know I should do my own research - but I don't really know how to start! Also - would you do it again?? What type? I'm thinking lapband because of fewer risks though I know the loss process is slower. Thanks for any advice. Janet

Hey, I understan Dr. shana (SPELLING MAY BE WRONG) is great. I would love to tell you about Liv-Lite in Evansville, I have choosen them to do my surgery when I am done fighting with the insurance company. Please Call Traci (she is very sweet and has also had the surgery) at 1 812 450 7419 or 1 812 450 6753. You are welcome to use my name if you wish. Liv - Lite through Deaconess Hospital in Evansville IN. is one Class act, I stopped worring when I found them and I feel so sure they are the right ones for me and I think if you ever take a close look at them you will be impressed. THey also have two different support group meeting to attend, do yourself a favor attend just one and see if it don't build a fire under your butt, it did mine. Just call and tell me what you think then, if not I may go on for days. PLEASE CALL TRACI TODAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hi Janet: One thing you can do is go to the surgeons pages on Obesity Help and read other pattient's comments... I had my surgery at Georgetown Hospital, and another gal from Indiana did too! I can't say enough wonderful things about the program at Georgetown. One of the key things for me is their aftercare program. we have a rockin' online support group, weekly and monthly meetings, monthly social outings and generally are like one big family. The nurses in the program had WLS too so they know exactly what we're going thru. I had the roux N Y, and I'd do it again in a heartbeat. For me, I had a LOT of weight to lose, and I knew the Roux was the best option for me. I think if you're a volume eater, the lap band is more appropriate, but I knew if i had that, i would find a way to cheat with it. The RNY keeps me accountable. So far, I've lost over 150 lbs in 7.5 months. I adore our docs and our nurses and have made lifelong friends in the program. My best advice is attend seminars, talk to patients and go with your heart. Best Wishes! Kat

Janet- Dr Allen in Louisville is doing my surgery. He is a great listener, and makes sure you have everything you need for your visit so that things run smoothly. I also love the fact that my surgery will be at Norton's Hospital which is well known to be a good hospital. I am very pleased with my decision and hope you find what is best for you.

Hi Janet, Dr. Shina (has offices in Jeff. and Lou.) works out of Norton Suburban Hospital and in practice with Dr. Gellar. Dr. Shina did my husband's surgery and is doing mine on 5/27/2004. I feel very confident with Dr. Shina that I will be safe and sound. 90% of his practice is WLS. He's literally done 100's of these surgeries. He is so well thought of among physicians that he has been approached to perform the surgery on many high risk cases such as a 12 yr. old boy (I don't know if he decided to do it or not). His office # 282-3930; you can call and they will send you out a packet to fill out with a medical history. They have seminars at Suburban hosp. all the time that are informational in nature--just for people looking into it and you can get a packet there as well. I suggest you make an appt. as soon as you obtain your packet because you may have to wait a few weeks to get in for a consultation with him. You can always fill out your packet during the weeks you will wait to see him. A tip though: the office staff will NOT schedule unless you TELL them you have filled out the packet. I don't know why, it's kind of silly but they will not get you in unless they think you've filled out the info. Just be sure it's finished when you go for your consult and be prepared to pay upfront a fee ($50.00-$100.00?) to Right Weigh (the aftercare program--www.rightweigh.com) to get the ball rolling on your insurance approval. Don't let the fee dissuade you. It's the best money we've ever spent. Good luck to you!