going for my apt. with Dr. Girstus tomm.

I will let you know how I do..I am so afaraid they'll tell me no again, like my last doctor...but this one is new but its because my insurace says they can do a 40 bmi but I need to have all other things wrong..I really do have high blood pressure and digestive problems...does anyone have Oxford liberty plan? This is a test of my patiece and to see how much I really want this I guess..and I REALLY want this so I am not going to give up..

good luck with your appt elaine, i hope all goest well for you. keep us up to date hugs, jacki

Hi Elaine, How did you do at your consult today? Dr. Gritsus was my surgeon about 2 years ago. My experience was 100% positive, everything went smoothly from insurance process right through the surgery itself, recouperation, and post-op.... Really, if Dr. Gritsus is the one you choose you will be VERY happy. Also I thought I'd let you know I have Oxford, and the process was extremely easy with them. I am NOT a fan of insurance companies normally, however my experience with Oxford could not have been easier and more pleasant!! Dr. Gritsus' staff is very experienced in working with them so I think that made a huge difference. If you happen to click on my profile, you'll see I've been "offline" for quite some time now...hate to admit it, but I don't stop by as often as I did when I was pre- and newly post-op. So let me update you, my surgery was perfect, no complications, I feel fantastic, and I went from 299 lbs. at surgery down to 170 lbs. today. I've been at this weight for at least 8 mos. now, and although I think I could lose another 15, I also know it'll take some serious and renewed effort to do that, so I've been enjoying life and not focusing too much on losing that last little bit. (I'm 5'9" by the way) I have not looked on the height/weight charts in a long time, so I actually have no idea if I'm in the "normal" range, but I don't think so, I think I'm just over if I remember correctly. But I feel and look healthy and I'm fine with it all! Also, I can (and always have been able to) eat pretty much all healthy foods - all kinds of protein and vegetables. I try to stay easy on the carbs because I don't want to fill up before I've had protein, nor do I want to start gaining.... but I do definitely indulge in yummy things from time to time, like pasta and great bread - but in moderation! Even sugar in very small quantities. Anyway, just thought it might be a help to hear from someone who had your insurance, your surgeon, and was in your shoes not very long ago! Let us know how you did today. Marie 299/170/160

hi how are you? i live in Nj as well i live near the Atlantic city area (about half hour) what part of Nj did u get your surgery? im VERY interested in getting this surgery im just scared because i want to get a doctor who specializes in this and someone i feel i can trust. ty so much and hope to hear back from you ty jay

Hi Jay, I live in the most northern part of the state, and had my surgery up here (see my post above for info on doctor, etc. - Dr. Gritsus in Lincoln Park, NJ). I know many people travel to get their surgery, so a 2hr. travel for you might not be out of the question. I know there are also highly-thought-of doctors in your area, keep coming to this NJ discussion board - there are lots of people in south Jersey who can recommend someone closer to you. As far as being scared, we all are/were....so we can all relate. The best thing you can possibly do is to really educate yourself about everything!! All kinds of procedures, the risks and differences, which doctors specialize in which surgery type, etc.... and read lost of profiles too and you'll see how much you have in common with people on this wonderful site! Good luck!!

Marie, Thanks so much , I feel so great about everything, and your post made me feel even more confident. I am so excited to have this done and finally be healthy. I am so proud of your weight loss success..congrats on that...and Now I'll have to tell you all about mine when its over right? wel my apt is the 19th of Feb. I am so happy its so soon. I will def. keep you posted.I cant begin to agree with you more about their office and espescailly Dean... and Dr. Girtuis himself. They were so awsome to me, I walked out of ther on cloud nine...well take care ...laney