Some questions for you experts out there!

Hi Everyone, I have a couple of questions that I am hoping you can help me with.  1)  Does anyone know anything about Dr. Ryder? She is my surgeon-to-be and I just wanted some info. I noticed that most of you use different doctors? Is there a reason for it?

2) About how long does it take to get an actual surgery date? I will have finished all of my tests within the next two weeks.  3) How long do I have to be on shakes? Before and after the surgery.  Thanks!! Marie PS My son made my avatar for me. I just noticed that the flashing "Marie" is a bit annoying. Without hurting his feelings, I'll try and have him change it today

As for the Dr's- just depends on who we were refered to, someone recommended, etc.  I know some people on here do have Dr Ryder.  I think you can click on her name under your profile and it will take you to her page.  It will list members there who have her.  You can message them to ask them questions, though some may no longer be active members. How long to get a surgery date- depends on your Dr.  With mine, once my tests were done, I called to schedule my apt, It was scheduled 2 weeks or so later (they need time to make sure all the test data is in).  When I went for my follow up apt, I got my surgery date at that apt- which was about 2 weeks later. Shakes- again, depends on Dr (also what type of surgery).  I was not required to do a pre-op diet.  After my lapband surgery, I was on clear liquids (water, crystal light, broth) for a week.  I then started full liquids (shakes, cream soups, yogurt) for another week.  Progressing to purees for 2 weeks, then "soft foods" (eggs, fish, beans) for another 2 weeks.  Have you met with a nutritionist?  They will go through your required diet with you, also what type of vitamins and suppliments you should get. Good luck!! 

Dr. Ryder was my surgeon.  Love her. When my testing was done I rec'd appt. in ? 1 1/2 mos. to see her.  Then got my date after this appt.  ?a month?  I found the entire process very slow. I wasn't on shakes before, although I tried them out.  Afterwards?  maybe 4-6 wks. with others purees, soft foods.  Used them once/twice/ day.  Still use them sometimes.   Good luck!

Hello Marie, I have Dr. Ryder for my doc and she is WONDERFUL. I met her in January and started my testing thereafter. I scheduled my surgery for the fall of that year because of my work scheduled. When I was ready to schedule it, I called Jerilyn and made my date with her then. Everything went very smoothly. I never had to go on shakes before the surgery. She just asked me to loose some weight (if I could) before the surgery so it would make it easier for her to work around the liver. I went home on water for a couple of days and then pureed food and shakes. That lasted for about 4 weeks and then I moved onto soft foods (eggs, meatloaf, smashed carrots, potatos, etc). I just saw Dr. Ryder for my 6mo follow up and everything is going well. She never rushes the appt and always answers all of my questions. Good luck on your journey, Tracy

Hi Marie! I didn't choose Dr. Ryder because Dr. Pohl takes my insurance (Tricare) and was recommended by them. He is also located here on obesityhelp.com. If you wish to meet Dr. Ryder prior to your appts, she always attends the Rhode Island Hospital Support Group Meeting on the first Wednesday each month. She seems very nice. She says she doesn't make her patients do the pre-op 'diet'. I've heard a lot of great stuff about her! Jules

Thanks for the answers! My sleep study was moved up so I am getting closer now! I actually would like to go to one of the seminars that Dr. Ryder goes to. I have already met her at my initial appt but always have questions!! I am going to look into that! Thanks again! Marie

As your questions pop up...make a list so that when you do see Dr. Ryder, you won't forget. It's important to get all your questions answered to ease your mind.

You got a lot of really good answers already - I just wanted to say Hi!

Thanks! "Hi" to you, too! You look great!! I can't wait to be thin again!! You're an inspiration!! Marie

Welcome to the board! 1) I have Dr. Ryder! I absolutely adore her. I chose her because I had met her a few years ago when she did some surgery on my husband (Non WLS related). She has a great personality, very easy to talk to and listens! There are many great doctors to choose from. If you don't feel 100% with the one you choose...search around.  2) Dr Ryder gets the insurance approval before the tests get started. This is a major plus because you don't wait for a approval once the tests are completed. Once the last test is completed....they will set a date for about 2 weeks after. This is to insure all paperwork is in. You should have a date within 2-3 weeks from that appointment.   3) Dr. Ryder doesn't require a pre-op diet in most cases. I am/was about 10 weeks out and was still drinking 1 8oz shake a day to meet the daily required protein count. I don't mind it as I enjoy the shakes.  Good luck!