My family doctor says, "Don't do it!"

I also posted this on the main forum and someone suggested I post it here. My goal is to have Realize band surgery. I had an appointment with my family doctor a couple of days ago. When I advised him I was on track to have lap band surgery in a few months he was incredulous, and strongly advised me against it. He said I wasn't a lap band candidate (my BMI is 35 with severe sleep apnea and elevated cholestrol) and warned me about all types of complications caused by lap band.  I am not swayed but I am sure I have not heard the last from him. I had a stroke in 2001 and also have a slight (15%) carotoid blockage. This is, in part, what concerns him. I weigh 245 and stand 5'10" tall . He says I have a muscular build. He would prefer that I weigh 300 and get the full bariatric surgery. Has anyone gotten this type of advice from your family doctor, and how did you handle it?

My family doctor didn't do this.  She simply said these are the possible complications from the band and these are they possible complications from the bypass and that I should speak with the surgeon to explore it further.  I would tell him that you want the referral to the surgeons office.  Tell him you appreciate his opinion/input but you will discuss it with the surgeon.  The surgeon may decide with your health history that you aren't a good candidate but I would put myself in his/hers hands and expertise.

While I would never suggest going against Doctor's advice, especially since they know your medical history better then anyone - I would advise speaking to a Bariatrics Doctor and let them know your medical history and see what they say.

While Doctors are trained professionals, sometimes there are just as ignorant as a common person when it comes to certain procedures, including Bariatrics. It's kind of like going to a foot specialist and asking them their opinion concerning a open heart operation.

Again, you may have something in your medical history that would make the band a poor choice. But to ask someone to gain weight, in order to have the operation is mind boggeling. Especially if you have some co-morbidities.

As in anything, seek a 2nd and 3rd opinion. If all 2-3 agree, then stop. If not, then you need to decide what is best for you.

Sounds like your family doc isn't very well informed on Bariatrics, definitely speak with a reputable Bariatric Surgeon!!!

Good luck..keep us posted!!!

Actually, my Family practice doctors wasn't a big fan of it either, but I had to do what was best for me. I found a very good surgeon and except for heartburn I'm doing fine.

My doctor actually told me if I got the surgery not to come back to see him.  So I found a new doctor.  It is in their interest to keep you sick.  Talk to a bariatric specialist, someone that actually knows the risks.  Specifically one at a center of excellence.

Seriously????  He told you not to come back??.....how insane is that, you are lucky you changed doctors because he sounds like a fool.   Good for you for being proactive and taking charge and doing what was best for you!!! 

I was fortunate in that my primary MD was all for surgery for me (I originally started looking into the Bypass) but my neurologist (I have MS) would not approve of anything but the Band.  (and at that time, I had changed my mind about what I wanted too) 

My family doctor was also against WLS when I told him I was interested in it. He referred me to a nutritionist and weight loss specialist, who suggested that I eat less than 1,000 calories per day and I would lose all the weight I wanted. When I proved her wrong by following her plan EXACTLY for three weeks and GAINED a pound, THEN he changed his mind.

Some doctors just see WLS as a "cop-out" from good old fashion dieting and exercise. After my doctor realized that weight loss programs didn't work for me the way they do other people, he finally referred me to the surgeon. I haven't made an appointment to go back to him yet, but the next time I do, he will probably be shocked at how well I've done so far.

Definitely consider his opinion and concerns related to your health issues, but make your choice by listening to your surgeon(s) and what you feel is best for you. Good luck with your decision!