Newbie...with Questions

Hello All,
   I have a few appointments scheduled for the next few weeks and i'm excited! I'm interested in having the Lap-Band procedure.  My first will be tommorrow at Garden State bariatric & Wellness Center in NJ-Dr. Bilof.  On Thursday, I meet with Advanced Laproscopic Surgery in Florham park, Nj -Dr. Abkin.  Then in 2 weeks on the 17th I meet with Dr Chau at NJ Bariatrics. 

My Questions to you all is:
What Should I ask the Doctors?
Do any of you have any thoughts on these Doctors?
Do you think that 3 opinions is enough/too many?
 
I welcome your  feedback!

Thanks

Hi

First of all - Good Luck!

After that it's hard to decide what to say next.   Have you learned about the surgery in general from either the internet, brochures, or people who have had it?   Ask the doc to explain how & what they do during surgery.

You need to ask about any specific health concerns you may have and how they might be affected.

Every doctor is different so you might want to know things like:
        What do they require PRIOR to surgery?
        What do they require AFTER the surgery?
        Do they take your insurance (if available)?

It is helpful to know from your insurance company what exactly they require.  I say exactly because if you don't follow what they want exactly (to the letter), you could get refused. 

I'm sure others might have some additions but I hope this helps!

Vicki
       

why are you going to see three docs??  im not sure i understand your reasoing here.

write down a list of your questions so that you can ask them, such as what they require before and after surgery.  do they have a nutritionist on staff  and things like that.

i went to see one doc and he did my surgery.

good luck, jacki

all three docs are well thought of from what i have read on the boards here

The most important criteria is what type of after care program is available for you and will it include unlimited visits to the nutritionist, your nutritionist is a vital component to your success as well as seeing your surgeon on a regular basis for follow ups. You should discuss all types of weight loss surgical options with your doctor and make sure the doctor tells you the pros and the cons for each procedure. If you need a more restrictive option and want to lose quickly you may want to consider RNY, always go in with an open mind because one surgery may not be right for you. One thing that helped me is support groups and you should attend a few before you decide who to use. A well attended support group is another good sign of a successful program. Check with your insurance company to see if all the fills are covered too! Good luck.

I am having surgery for the lap band with dr. bilof  late in Dec.  I am so far very happy with him.  Good luck.