Recommendations for VSG surgeons?

Hi there, I've been going through the pre-approval process with the insurance... going to my appoitments, etc.  I do have a surgeon, but know that although he has done VSGs before, they arent many.  He has no history of medical malpractice for anything though, which is comforting.  I did want to ask (as it couldnt hurt) if anyone knows of anyone in the Essex/Union County areas that they would highly recommend... and hopefully one thats aggressive enough to get the approvals for insurance!  :)

I love the Nj Bariatric Center in Union, NJ  I used Dr. Forrester.

I did not have a VGS but I love Dr's Abkin and Bertha. I believe they now do VGS and their office was great when I had my RNY in getting my approval. They are in Florham Park so it is fairly close to Essex and Union county.

Good luck!

Stella

Stella - Ive also seen lots of comments online on Dr Abkin... will see if I can find some more info.  :)

Did you have issues in getting your approval?  Was there any doubt or just that they were diligent in getting things done?

Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeons in Florham Park do VSG surgeries and they are great.  They operate in several locations including, Morristown, St. Clare's Dover, St. Peters in New Brunswick, JFK in Edison.  They have a great Program and their staff is involved with the patients before, during and after... so Check them out... www.njbariatricsurgeons.com

Pat

I too (three) suggest using Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeons, in Florham Park. You won't find a better group of Doctors (well IMHO).

Thanks everyone for all your input!  Ironically, I work in Florham Park too!  The surgeon that Ive been recommended to came highly recommended, but I'm hesitant because VSG seems too knew as a normal practice, even though its been around for a while.  Hence, seeing if there is someone else that has performed more of these procedures.

Would you mind if I asked if anyone had any complications on getting their surgeries approved?  I'm on the borderline here and also waiting to see how much of a fight they are going to put up with my insurance company... Did you find that ALS in FP was thorough in getting you through the process?

Thanks again...

ALS is very thorough. They will help you along the way.

I found them very thorough. They knew what my insurance company required. Once I completed all my requirements they submitted my paperwork and I was approved within 10 days. The woman who was submitting my paperwork called me at 7:00 in the evening to go over it with me.  

Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeons (Abkin, Bertha & Iannace) all do the Sleeve Surgery.  It only started being covered by Insurances in the state of New Jersey last year that is why not many doctors around here have done as many.  I did speak to Dr Abkin and asked HOW A PATIENT can Choose the Right Doctor to do this New Procedure.  He said you want to make sure the Surgeon has done many Gastric Bypass Surgeries, rather than just  being a Gastric Banding Surgeon. 

You can give Dr Abkin's office a call 973-410-9700 and ask to speak to NINO.  He could direct you on how that surgery is covered as far as Insurance Goes. Patients that see the doctors meet with Insurance specialist the same day to start the process of what their specific Insurance needs to get the procedures covered.  They are awesome.

Good luck on your journey!

Pat