Help with starting out.

Hi there-- I am ultra-new here.  I just went to an information session at gbmc on Saturday.  I was wondering if there is a forum here for getting peoples recommendations and good experiences with surgeons/centers.  How does one best go about finding the best place to have bariatric surgery done?  Also, at the session there were'nt any "show-and-tell people" who had gotten a gastric band-- are there any folks here who would be willing to talk about that with me?  Any advice for a person starting this journey would be greatly appreaciated.
Thanks so much!!!!
Dawn

Hi and Welcome.  

Baltimore Magazine this month (out on the stands now) lists the best doctors in baltimore and under surgerons Bariatric there are a few listed... 

there are several Centers of Excellence in Baltimore

Johns Hopkins Bayview
St. Agnes
University of Maryland
Sinai Hospital.


I would suggest visiting around to several doctors and their information centers.

i had the RNY so I can't discuss the band with you but we have several banders here that I am sure can give you GREAT advice.

Hi Dawn..............Welcome to the Maryland Board ;o)

i can only speak for johns hopkins and love dr. steele. she is freakin awesome.there are many bandsters on the forum though who should give you some good advice. good luck and welcome to the forum.

I had my RNY at GBMC with Dr. Roe and I loved the service I got there and absolutely love the support I get form my doctor and his staff.

Hey Dawn:
Welcome to the MD Board.  My best advice to you is just keep reading and asking.

Hi Dawn and Welcome to the MD board. I think Once you find a Doc you want to go with you will go to Support group meetings and meet some pre[ops and post-ops that used that doctor. Asking here is also a good start. Everyone will tell you a bit about their doctor and you decide who you feel comftorable with. Go meet with a few of them.

Good luck and please keep us posted and ask any questions you need to.

Hello and welcome to the Maryland board. There are so many here who can give info on the doctors and surgeries. I have found it helpful to attend support group meeting. This way we willknow what we are in for once we decide what surgery to have. People here are honest and are willing to help. Good luck in the choice you make.

                                                                                            Julie

Thanks so much for all of the welcomes :) !
I am trying to decide between the surgeries, and also a Dr who  is comapssionate and personable, as well as a gifted surgeon ;).
d.

Hi Dawn!  I can only tell you about my surgeon Dr. Gandsas at Sinai.  I really liked his office.  He is pretty quiet but very sweet.  However his nutritionist Nancy is a very amazing person, you can call or email her about anything anytime and she always gets back to you.  Their support program before and after is really amazing as well.  Good luck on your search and your new journey!!

Cindy