How do you pick a surgeon?

Hi, I'm seriously considering lapband surgery and am completely overwhelmed over the amount of information to be found...but glad I found this website hearing all the experiences people have posted..now..how have you all picked the particular surgeon..I live in Newark, so I'm close to some good hospitals here in the city as well as in the suburbs, but more interested in a good, kind understanding surgeon and staff than anything else. Thanks!

My choice was pretty much made for me. When I asked my primary care physician about getting weight loss surgery, he said he thought I was a great candidate, but would only refer me to a group of doctors in Hackensack, which is about 90 miles from me, BUT I love them! It worked out well. I went to the informational seminar the group holds and I chose which doctor I liked that night. I also knew a friend who had surgery with the same group, and she did great, so it all came together for me. I don't mind driving far to see my doctor, because I trust him and love him. Michelle Brennan

Start with finding out who your insurance will cover. I did my initial research and found some great surgeons near me -- but then found out they were not covered by my insurance, even my out-of-network coverage, so I had to start the research process over again. (I just don't have the money to pay for the surgery on my own.) Looking on my insurance website physician directory showed the nearest approved bariatric specialist as being in Staten Island, which was too far away for regular visits for me, but what saved me from complete frustration was having my primary physician's office call the insurance company directly for a more local referral. The insurance recommended a local surgeon who does many bariatric surgeries but, as a head of surgery at a hospital who does other surgeries, simply wasn't listed under the "bariatric specialist" designation in the insurance company's online database. So far, I've found the doctor and his office great to work with, and I never would have found him without the help of my PCP and insurance company. (And I'm saying that as someone who is usually excellent at locating information on my own!) Good luck!

Hey there Jacki, I have a wonderful surgeon, he's at Muhlenberg hospital in Plainfield, which is not that far from you his name is Dr Jean-Baptiste, his phone # is 908-226-4200, give the office a call and go for a consultation and see if you like him....I adore him, Im having lap band surgery in January...Good luck and let me know what you think....

Like Michelle, my decision was pretty much determined by my PCP. He recommended the surgeon I am using and is so confident in them he urged me to do whatever was necessary to have him do the surgery. I trust my PCP so that was enough for me.

After doing tons of research I chose Dr. Jean-Baptiste, Medical Director of the Bariatric Center at Muhlenberg Hospital. He met all of my criteria: attended a top medical school, did a fellowship in advanced bariatric and laparoscopic surgery, has a complete comprehensive program, a warm inviting, interesting and well attended support group and not a huge practice where you are just a number! He worked with other good bariatric surgeons and he also taught other doctors. Besides that he is a master of his craft and a really nice man. He never rushes you when you are in his office and he is very smart and well spoken. He takes almost all insurance, I have Horizon BCBS. The next support group is on 12/21, you should come. I am 3+ weeks out after RNY and I'm doing very well, about 20 lbs down. Email me and I will tell you more.