St. Vincent Charity Hospital Questions

Hello all, First time post.  I have finally taken the plunge to get the Gastric Bypass.  Couple of newbie questions. 1.  Can't decide whether to opt for the Gastric or Lap Band.  (I now the gastric creates the intolerance for sugars, which I have a weakness for, but it just seems so drastic.  I like the idea of a more gradual weight loss of 1-2lbs per week with the lap band)   Any thoughts? 2.  I am enrolling at St. Vincent Charity in Cleveland and was wondering if anyone else has been through their program. 3. My surgeon is Dr. I.M Sonpal, anyone had him as their surgeon? Thanks and look forward to talking with everyone.

Hi, I had RNY at SVCH on 3/31/08 with Dr. Ben Meir.  I chose the RNY.  I was not comfortable having a piece of plastic in there and not know if/when it was going to erode and cause problems.  Go to the support groups and ask questions.  They have staff there that have had surgery and they have their "angels" (post ops) to ask questions of.  Good Luck

hi, im currently in the approval process for the 2nd time and I love St. Vincents, I have decided to do the gastric as opposed to the band for the same reason as the other poster as well as the upkeep of fills, however, i would suggest you research and choose the right one for you. good luck in your journey   

I am also in the approval process for the second time and am going to St Vincents with Ben Meir. When did you resubmitt? I got resubmitted on May 1st, hate the waiting! Kim

Why are you going through the approval process again?

Why are you going through the approval process again?

I also had my surgery @ St. Vincents. My surgeon was Dr. Ben-Meir. He chose the RNY for me, said for me, that would be the best route. I think it might also have something to do with how much you need to lose. Anyway, it was the best thing I have done for myself. I have lost 145 pounds, am exercising and just HUGELY enjoying my new life! Good luck to you, Michelle

I went there and was very happy with my entire process and weight loss. :)