Where to start...

 I am still a ways out from ps but I really want to be educated about everything so I wanted to start now. I have researched ps's in my area but wanted to know if you guys had any tips/ websites that I must check out in my research. Any info (or finger pointing) would be very much appreciated. Thanks so much!

I am going through the same thing but on the west coast.  There are a few websites that might help.  Some of them require a fee for complete info but some of the basic info is provided.  Health Grades is done on most PS in your area.  OH helps with "find a plastic surgeon" but most of the comments are positive that they post.  You might call and talk to patient coordinators; sometimes they will tell you in a roundabout way who to stay away from.  I do know that just because they are board certified by ASPS doesn't mean they always do quality work.  Asking people who are willing to tell you they had "work" done can also be helpful.  Anything that helps you narrow it down is helpful since many charge a fee from $50-150 for their consultation fee.  Just some things I tried..hope it is helpful.  Good luck in your search!

 Thanks so much! I will start to call around and see what is up in my area.

Amanda, One of the most important things to check when you look into a plastic surgeon is that they have done alot of massive weight loss patients and are familar working with our skin----------- not every plastic surgeon is and our skin is entirely diffent form the average"Mommy Make over".  good Luck  Gail

 Thanks for that advice. I have seen on a few ps's in my area that they work with bariatric patients. Thanks again!

Hey there Amanda.  Are you thinking you might get some insurance coverage for anything?   If so then be sure to start your documentation of any skin issues you might have.  Pain in your back from sagging breasts etc.     Read over this sheet from Dr. L. for some tips - http://www.drlomonaco.com/files/tips_on_getting_your_plastic_surgery_approved.pdf

As for docs.  There are quite a few in the area that work with post massive weight loss patients.  It all comes down to $ and skill :)  

 I have been talking to my mom about going with me to Mexico...lol. Your threads were the ones that got me thinking about plastic surgery and how much I didn't know about it. I want the best results(who doesn't) I am trying to not put a monetary limit on what I want at this point. I would rather have a little done well than a lot done so-so.

I have a ton of skin on my stomach that has started giving me problems. I am not holding my breath that insurance will work out for me but I can always hope right? :) Thanks for the link.

Yeah ... well I researched for well over a year.   Had consults here and with Brazilian (in DC) and Mexico virtually :)     My consults in the US were 40-60K for all the work I wanted done.   About 1/3 of that and I got it all done in 2 weeks in Mexico :)    Very pleased so far as you know.    I also really REALLY enjoyed my recovery time in Mexico away from "life".  I had a solid week at the hotel after leaving the clinic have the 2 surgeries.  It was really nice to focus on me ... and watch the palm trees blow in the wind by the pool :) 

It's all a gamble really.  I needed ONE recovery time / period out of work.  Had the huge hernia that needed fixing and probably could have had panni done by insurance.   But it would have left me less than half done and out 2K in copays and 10% of the bill.     I skipped it and just paid to have it all done at once and am very glad I did.  

Oh I forgot ... Dr. Sauceda will be coming to NYC in August.   Most likely we will be having a patient reunion / meeting dinner in NYC on August 5th.   You are welcome to come of course!  

Tom

 I would love to attend. Is there an email list or group that I can join so that I am notified as to when it is? Thanks so much!