Dinner tonight question

Anyone going to be there tonight that used weight wise or went to one of their seminars that could show me the info from it? I am really trying to make the big decision on a surgeon and get some info on them before I go to a seminar. I know that sounds like not a good way to become informed, but I just don't have a lot of time to travel around everywhere (paticularly long distances) to sit through a seminar where I have already learned almost all of the same things from previous ones. It will be a different story once I have made my decision. I'll have no problem driving where I need to to maintain my band and do the necessary things for it. I'm sorry,and hope this doesn't make me sound lazy or like I don't want to do the research, just have different approaches toward it, and am having a hard time figuring out how. Main points I am wanting to know, cost, what the cost covers, fill prices, and so forth. Thanks and looking forward to meeting you all tonight.

I don't know anything about WW, but I'll be there tonight!  See ya there! I went to two seminars before I chose Dr. Katsis.  I went to Gorospe and Katsis.  Gorospe isn't in my network and that is basically why I chose Surgical Associates.  I thought they were both well qualified.

Aaaahhh! Dot! I've been researching more since I posted that and looking into Katsis! I'm so happy you are using him. I'm about to call my ins. and see if he's in network. Any info on him you'd like to share? I've been reading some great reviews.

I can't really tell you much at this point since I'm pre-op...  I've only seen him at the seminar and my initial visit with him...  But, he did not seem rushed and was willing to spend as much time as we needed to answer questions for Josh and I. Michelle won't be at the dinner tonight, but she does usually go...  Anyway, she also used Dr. Katsis and she can also give some input here. I've been to 4 of their support group meetings.  Most of them have been a good experience...  There was really only one that I thought was kinda lame and bored me.  lol  But, maybe it was just me?? I'll talk more tonight.  I'm getting ready to leave so Serena and I can do some shopping before dinner.  ttyl

My surgeon was Dr. Katsis also.  He's an excellent doctor.  I've also heard good things about Dr. Gorospe too.  You can't go wrong with either one.

Pam~     Are you going tonight? We'd love to have you. Another thing, you live in claremore? If you want to pm me, maybe we could get together for coffee or something. I really want to know more about Dr. Katsis, but there isn't an informational meeting for a couple of weeks. Anyway, anyone know how much his surgeries cost and what tests he requires? thanks, joni

I'd like to come to Abuelo's but evenings aren't good for me.  Surgical Associates requires a letter from your personal physician recommending the surgery, a psychological evaluation, pulmonary evaluation, sleep apnea and cardiac tests.  I also had an upper GI because I previously had a VBG and I'm not sure everybody has to have an upper GI.  Each patient is different and you may need other tests that I didn't have.  They have a website surgassoc.com which has more info.  My total out of pocket costs for everything related to the RNY was a little over $1,000.

Joni,     How did dinner go?  It's a good thing that I told you that I wouldn't be able to make it tonight, I JUST got home.  Got bumped off of my flight in Denver.  Let me know how it went.

I dont think you are being lazy....Personally I did research all available wl surgeons in Oklahoma. I chose Dr. Keith not because of cost but for his expertise. Thats something that you can not put a price on. I have not regreted my decision. To me I wanted to know everything about WLS and I researched the hell out of it and made a wise decision on DR. Keith. He has saved my life twice. He and his office staff is always available to you and no question is to stupid or dumb to be answered.  I went to his senminar well informed knowing he was the one I wanted cutting on me...Good Luck on your decision...

Thanks pattye and everyone for your thoughts, opinions, advice, and overall support. I can't wait until I have my spot on the losers bench! By the way, pattye, cute pic on your avatar. Is that someone you know or a pic you just found?