Dr. Graniero (Utica, NY)

Hi all: When I had my consult with Dr. Graniero, he tried to steer me away from having a lap RNY. He doesn't do lap, only open; however, his partner does do the lap. I figured he would just refer me to his partner (Dr. Neale); however, he continued to sell me on the benefits of open. Does this strike you as odd? Or do you think the doc has a good reason for doing this? I'm cool with either; just wonder why he was doing this. Best, Jen

Jen, My doctor was very for open too...his partner also did lap...but, he had done 3000 surgeries and his partner had done 300...so, I went with the more experienced surgeon and have no regrets.  He seemed to think that the open is safer and gives the doctor more options if trouble arises.  The recovery is harder...I wasn't 100% until about 90 days post-op, but luckily I haven't had any complications.  Good luck...keep us updated. Rosemary 277/156/150

Hello Rosemary - This is the first time I have replied to anyone on this board.  It is a wonderful wealth of information.  I am scheduled for RNY (open) on Aug. 20th.  My doctor also only does the open surgery but has others in his group that do the lap RNY/banding, etc.  I was wondering about your recovery time. I am 53 years old and weigh about 375 now (from my highest of 435)but when I started in the program I weighed in at 407. I am a bit concerned because I am not losing at a really fast rate and I have some other issues yet to deal with but basically I am anxious to have the surgery and start over again.  You mentioned it took you about 90  days to recover. Were you out of work that long? I guess I am worried because I have so much abdominal fat (that is where I carry the majority of my weight) I have an apron which hangs a bit now so I guess I worry about pain/it drawing on my incision, etc.(I'm not the bravest sort when it comes to pain and I am mentally preparing for this) I have yet to have my consult with my anestesiologist who may address some of my concerns, too, I know.  I guess I just wanted to hear from someone who'd had the surgery the open way.  I realize you were not as large as me and maybe this is why I am feeling just a bit nervous.  My surgeon is highly competent and I like him very much.  Do you have any other advice?  I hope to become an active participant of this board, soon.  Thank you in advance for any response and it was great to meet you.  Molly P. (Mary)

My apologies to Jen and to Rosemary, too, I am so new at using this board and my computer skills are sorely lacking! I met to ask Rosemary about her open surgery but also wish to say good luck to you Jen with whichever route you choose.  Hopefully one or both of you will get the right messages!

So sorry!