Thinking about surgery - very nervous!

Hi - I'm new here and I've been thinking about surgery for about 6 months now. In the past sixth months I've developed high blood pressure and acid reflux. Has anyone here had any problems after or during their surgery? And can anyone recommend a great doctor? I really appreciate any advice!

Hi Roslyn: If not had surgery yet, but I am scheduled for 10/23 with Dr. Lavin. Since you are in Abita Springs, you might want to go to one of their seminars, as they have an office in Covington. You can go to http://www.whyweight.com and check out the practice and see when they are having a seminar. My advice also is to get a copy of your insurance policy with regard to bariatric surgery to see if you have coverage. If you make sure to bring your insurance card with you to a seminar, they can usually tell you if your insurance will cover the surgery. Some of them require a supervised diet for some period of time prior to surgery and if that is the case, you'd want to start that as soon as possible. Good luck and do all the research you can. Angela

Hi Roslyn, This is a big step, but not because it's a bad idea. It's a bold step toward an evolution into the strong, healthy person that you know lies deep inside. Life and health does change and it can be a beautiful thing. My doctors practice through the Minimally Invasive Surgery Institute in Baton Rouge and there will be a informational seminar Thursday, Oct. 7. Their skill and compassion has been the X-factor in my life for more than two years. Please let me know if there's anything I can do to help in your journey. Onward! Frances

You are thinking about making an awesome move. I like Frances am a patient of the Minimally Invasive Surgery Group. Superb doctors and staff. The support group is second to none. I had surgery in late July. I have had no problems. Dr. Hausmann and Dr. LeBlanc are G-R-E-A-T! This is a life changing decision. Research all that you can so you can make an informed decision. I had high blood pressure, reflux, sleep apnea and terrible issues with my knees. There is no magic fix. But there is this tool that used wisely will get you where you want and need to be. It was one of the best things I have ever done, the best thing for me. Take care, read and ask lots of questions! Good luck,Bejai!

Don't do drugs, duh! Thursday is Oct. 5 -- so sorry

Roslyn I live in Covington and had surgery 6 months ago and was high risk. Dr. Thomas in of the Southern Surgical Group here in Covington did my surgery and I had no problems. Everyone is an individual and you must make your own decision. Go to an informational session and then if you are still interested meet with a doctor. Go in with all your questions in writing and get complete answers. Dr. Thomas was a perfect fit for me. Feel free to email me and I can put you in contact with others here in the area who have had either lap-band or gastric bypass.

I'm going to recommend that you schedule yourself into some seminars and listen to the drs and what they have to say. I live not far from you and I used Dr. Ordoyne at St. Tammany Hospital. I personally believe he is the best surgeon out there doing this procedure. He will have a seminar on October 16th at 6:00 pm at St. Tammany Hospital. Once you go to the meeting you will have a full understanding of him, the procedure and what you need to start the journey. You won't be locked into him, but you will have knowledge. You can email me anytime and ask me any questions. I had surgery in November and yes I have had some complications, but nothing bad. I've lost 170 lbs and I'm still losing. My life is mine again and I couldn't ask for more.