Surgery HERE or THERE?

Hello All! I am a single professional living in Portland, OR. I recently moved here a few months ago and have made a wonderful circle of friends, but my family is all in Florida. My question is: Should I be looking for a doctor in Florida where my strongest support circle is? or.. Should I be doing it here b/c of the extensive pre-op and post-op appointments? What are your opinions?!!!! and experiences. Thanks, this forum has been invaluable to me! Christa

Hi Christa, I'm actually in Texas but I keep up with the oregon board since I was born and raised in Medford. I have a similar situation. My hubby is in California(a military contractor) I'm living in San Antonio, surrounded by family and friends. I decided to have the surgery in texas because of the mandatory preop/post op visits by my surgeon. It varies surgeon to surgeon, but mine requires at least 3 preop visits then post op at 3 weeks, 2 months, 3months, 6 months, 1 year and 18months. I have seen people traveling with in a week of surgery. You just need to be careful and move every hour or two to prevent the blood clots. I think it is really important to have someone with you at the hospital. Let someone else look out for your best interests. One of the great things about this website is that you have the information to pick a surgeon, an insurer and hospital anywhere in the us. Keep posting and let us know your progress! Best of luck to you! Sarinda

Hi Christa! I see your dilemma, here is my two bits. Recovery will likely be easier for you in your own space. AND after recovery you will live in Oregon, so it may be best to consider having surgery here and expanding on your circle of support. My Mom came to spend six weeks with me after surgery last year. We debated going 'home' for a couple of those weeks, once I could travel.. but I realized I was much happier with MY bed.. MY shower.. the like. Florida is a long way away if you have an unexpected complication. But, like WLS, in the end the decision is personal and yours to make Best of luck! Julie Winlund, 1 year post op -128 and still losing.