Well now I'm REALLY confused...to DS or not DS?

Hi Lori,
  Dr. Crookes is a wonderful surgeon. I have been to two of his seminars. And very little was mentioned about DS at both. When I asked him about DS he said to make an appointment to "go over it" when I did go in for my appointment he just wanted to make sure I was well informed about all aspects of DS. Made me sign contract that listed all risks. And said he would never want to make a patient live with a surgery that was not their choice"  When my sister became his patient it was the same way. He wanted to make absolutely sure she understood DS. Now she is doing pre op testing so she can get her DS. I personally think that Dr.Crookes is very picky about the DS because his name as a surgeon is on it, he doesn't want a bunch of non-compliant dorks running around with DS killing themselves with a surgery they didn't understand.  So I think you hit the nail on the head saying he wants to see your commitment and evidence of research.  As one of his patients I have nothing bad to say about him or his staff. they have all been great.

Thank you everyone! I can't believe the discussion my post has started. I am still going to see Dr. Crookes and Dr. Keshishian and I'll take it from there. Whew! I'm sure glad I posted!

WOW - what a great topic and terrific responses it generated!!!!!  I learned sooo much in this thread, I'm amazed as I was very confused about the sleeve vs ds.   I am signed up for the 'seminar' with Dr. Crookes and also am looking at Dr. K., who has a 4000 program fee (USC does not have one I believe).  I paid 3500 program fee for the lapband, would rather not pay another one if I can have a good DS surgeon as well.

I have been 'cut' three times because of the lap band - once to put it in (2/09), two months later to revise the port (4/09) and then to remove it (12/10).  I didn't do a direct revision because my surgeon doesn't do the DS - I kind of wish I had pushed for a direct revision to DS as he told me my insides have very little scar tissue and no adhesions from the band . . . but I wasn't sure what to do and I wanted it out!!!

So thank you for the post, it really helped me and I bet others as well in my research and decision making.

Wendy 

Wendy,

Some insurance companies now have a "one in a lifetime" restriction on bariatric surgery.  If they paid for your band, they MIGHT decide not to pay for further surgery.  In case you haven't already, check to make sure.

Sue