Has anyone had the sleeve done by Dr. Chung?

I am interested in having the sleeve gastrectomy and was wanting to find out if anyone has had this surgery done by Dr. Chung?  Did anyone have any complications?  How much weight have you had?  And how was post-op? How did you like Dr.Chung and his staff?  I know that this is alot of questions but I am pretty scared about it and trying to make a decision on this surgery.

I had the sleeve on 5/15/09 by Dr. Chung and have done very well.   I found both Dr. Chung and the staff to be  professional, gave a lot of information, caring, spent time with me and seemed to be dedicated to their professions.  There is a monthly support group (which Dr. Chung participates in)  that I found to be very helpful and I plan on continuing to attend.     I lost 27 lbs prior to surgery and have lost about 25 lbs since.   The pre-op liquid diet was a challenge but not as bad as I thought it would be.   I am able to try any foods at this time, but have been very cautious about this.    I have to be very mindful of what I eat in order to get in the protein and liquids in.  I did experience heartburn since the surgery, but am now taking Nexium and that has been resolved.    I was also very scared.   It is a big decision and right up until the day  of surgery was scared and not sleeping, but I am very happy with my decsion now. 

Susie,  
        Wow the weight you have lost is AWESOME!  Thank you so much for the information.  I have scheduled my surgery for July 7th and start my liquid diet on the 2nd. Yum Yum!  LOL  I am highly excited but still very scared but I have made up my mind that this is what I need to do to start feeling better about myself.  I was wondering how recovering was for you.  Was there alot of pain involved?  How soon were you feeling pretty normal?  I can not tell you how much I appreicate you sharing with me all of this information.  

I was in pain for about the first week, but the pain meds helped.   The second week was better and the third even better.  The drain is a  pain and it was great to get it out on that sixth day.   I took six weeks off work, although I could have probably gone back a little sooner.   I had plenty of sick leave and wanted to be sure I was ready both physically and mentally before I returned as my job can be very stressful.  I read on the OH message forum that some people went back to work as soon as two or three weeks, but I know I defintely was not ready (but then I am 57 years old and may not bounce back as easily as some of the younger folks).  I returned  to work today and had a really great day, and everyone at work was wonderful and very supportive.   Good luck with your surgery.   I have no regrets and feal really good (even in this horrible heat).

Thank you again Susie for all of the information!!  I am sorry I have not responded to you sooner but I have had issues with my computer.  I started my liquid diet on Thursday.  I have 1 more day to go.  Pre-op appointment is tommorrow and surgery Tuesday.  I am excited and nervous about Tuesday.  I will let you know how it went.  Thank you again!!

I will be thinking of you and keep you in my prayers.  I have not regretted my decision one moment.  Please keep me posted on your journey. 

DO YOU KNOW IF DR. CHUNG WILL DO IT ON A MEDICAID PERSON ?  I'M ALREADY APPROVED BY MEDICAID...

I have no idea if he takes Medicaid.  I paid cash for my surgery.  Here is his office number 337-433-1303.  His staff is wonderful!  Just give them a call and see if they can help you.  Sorry that I can't help you more.  Good Luck!